Statement by the Press Secretary/Director-General for Press and Public Relations, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, on the Speech by President Kim Dae-jung at the 56th Anniversary of National Liberation Day in the Republic of Korea

August 15, 2001

On August 15, President Kim Dae-jung of the Republic of Korea gave a speech at the ceremony marking the 56th anniversary of ROK's liberation from Japanese colonial rule. In this year's speech, Japan was mentioned in separate paragraphs. Despite some sharp expressions used, especially on the issue of history, the speech as a whole was a statement that had given consideration to various matters, not only on the recent domestic situation in the ROK but also on the future course of Japan-ROK relations.
Japan also hopes for the further promotion of Japan-ROK relations, one of the most important pillars of its diplomacy. For this objective, Japan intends to make efforts so that the governments and peoples of Japan and the ROK will be able to work hand in hand to tackle various issues and further strengthen the bilateral ties.

(END)