Seoul Committed to Pushing for North Korea Denuclearisation Following Trump's Remarks
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Synopsis
Seoul's government will persist in its efforts for North Korea's denuclearisation, despite President Trump's designation of North Korea as a 'nuclear power.' The South Korean Defence Ministry emphasizes the necessity of global cooperation for lasting peace.
Key Takeaways
- Seoul remains committed to North Korea's denuclearisation.
- Trump's comments labeled North Korea a 'nuclear power.'
- Collaboration with the international community is essential.
- Unified stance between South Korea and the US on denuclearisation.
- Concerns over legitimizing North Korea's weapons program.
Seoul, Jan 21 (NationPress) The South Korean government announced on Tuesday its intention to persist in advocating for the denuclearisation of North Korea, following remarks made by US President Donald Trump, who referred to North Korea as a "nuclear power" upon his return to the presidency for a second term.
Trump's statement came shortly after his swearing-in ceremony in Washington on Monday (local time), where he remarked that he and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un had "got along very well", according to the Yonhap news agency.
In response to President Trump's declaration, Seoul's Defence Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing the denuclearisation of North Korea and emphasized the importance of collaboration with the international community to achieve this objective.
"The denuclearisation of not only the Korean Peninsula but also North Korea is essential for ensuring lasting peace and stability globally," stated Jeon Ha-kyou, the ministry's spokesperson, during a regular briefing.
An official from Seoul's unification ministry, responsible for inter-Korean relations, indicated that both South Korea and the US share a "unified" stance regarding the denuclearisation of North Korea.
"South Korea and the US have upheld a strong and unified approach towards achieving North Korea's complete denuclearisation," the official informed reporters.
"The government intends to build a robust cooperative framework with the new US administration."
Trump's comments followed those of his Defence Secretary nominee, Pete Hegseth, who similarly described North Korea as a "nuclear power" in written responses to the Senate Armed Services Committee prior to his confirmation hearing last week.
Many US officials have been cautious about labeling Pyongyang as a nuclear power, as it may be interpreted as an endorsement of what they deem an illicit weapons program.
