South Korea: Acting President Han Engages in Phone Dialogue with Biden, Reinforces Alliance
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Seoul, Dec 15 (NationPress) Acting President Han Duck-soo conducted a phone conversation with U.S. President Joe Biden on Sunday, emphasizing the commitment to maintain and enhance the alliance between the two nations, according to his office.
Following the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol by the National Assembly on Saturday due to his brief imposition of martial law on December 3, Han engaged in a 16-minute phone discussion with Biden, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
Han stated, "Our government is dedicated to executing our diplomatic and security strategies seamlessly while ensuring that the South Korea-U.S. alliance continues to be upheld and evolved consistently."
He highlighted the necessity of reinforcing the combined South Korea-U.S. defense structure in light of shared challenges, including the nuclear threat from North Korea and the increasing collaboration between Moscow and Pyongyang.
Additionally, Han assured that all state matters would be conducted strictly in accordance with the Constitution and legal frameworks.
Biden expressed gratitude for Han's insights and conveyed his confidence in the resilience of South Korea's democracy, as per Han's office.
Biden remarked, "The steadfast South Korea-U.S. alliance remains intact, and I will continue to collaborate with the South Korean side to enhance the alliance and cooperation among South Korea, the U.S., and Japan."
Han thanked Biden for his dedication and efforts in significantly advancing the bilateral alliance and trilateral relations with Japan throughout his tenure. Biden committed to ongoing support for the alliance's development.
The White House noted that Biden acknowledged the "resiliency" of democracy and the rule of law in South Korea, reaffirming the U.S.' "ironclad" commitment to the South Korean populace.
Biden relayed his belief that the alliance will continue to be a cornerstone for peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region throughout Acting President Han's term, as stated in a release.
Assuming the role of acting president, Han, in his capacity as prime minister, took office immediately after Yoon was suspended following his impeachment.
Later that same day, Han also conversed with Gen. Paul J. LaCamera, commander of U.S. Forces Korea (USFK).
According to his office, Han underscored the significance of a robust South Korea-U.S. joint defense posture at this critical moment, acknowledging the potential for military provocations from North Korea, such as ballistic missile launches or cyberattacks.
Han further conveyed to LaCamera the need for enhanced communication between the two sides to preserve their strong alliance.
LaCamera reiterated the USFK's commitment to the joint defense posture, assuring Han that his command would proceed with combined exercises and drills with South Korea as planned.
