South Korean Industry Minister to Visit the US This Week to Discuss Tariffs
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Synopsis
South Korean Industry Minister Ahn Duk-geun will visit the U.S. this week to discuss the new import tariff plans introduced by President Trump, emphasizing South Korea's role in key industries to mitigate potential impacts.
Key Takeaways
- Ahn Duk-geun's visit is aimed at discussing U.S. import tariffs.
- Meetings will include discussions with top U.S. trade officials.
- South Korea aims to emphasize its importance in manufacturing and tech.
- Cooperation in batteries, semiconductors, and energy will be explored.
- Consistency in trade policies is crucial for both nations.
Seoul, Feb 23 (NationPress) South Korea's Industry Minister Ahn Duk-geun is set to travel to the United States this week to engage in talks regarding the new U.S. import tariff initiatives, as reported by a government representative on Sunday.
This anticipated visit follows U.S. President Donald Trump's announcement regarding the implementation of tariffs on imported products starting in April.
"We are currently coordinating with U.S. officials to confirm the date for Ahn's visit," said a senior government spokesperson, noting that the trip could occur as soon as this week, according to the Yonhap news agency.
"We are actively working to present our position on these matters and ensure it is considered before the U.S. fully enacts its trade policy," the spokesperson added.
Ahn is expected to hold discussions with key U.S. officials overseeing trade and commerce, including Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick and Secretary of Energy Chris Wright, along with senior representatives from the National Economic Council (NEC), among others.
During his visit, Ahn intends to highlight South Korea's role as a vital U.S. ally in manufacturing and high-tech sectors, including steel, automotive, and semiconductors, aiming to mitigate potential adverse effects from the proposed U.S. import tariff strategy.
Additionally, Ahn Duk-geun met with acting U.S. Ambassador to Seoul Joseph Yun last week to discuss enhancing bilateral collaboration across various domains, from trade to energy, according to Ahn's office.
The two parties concurred that their bilateral relations have reached an alliance level concerning the economy and advanced industries, fostering growth in trade and investments, as stated by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy.
They explored opportunities for bolstering cooperation in sectors like batteries, semiconductors, shipbuilding, and energy.
During the discussions, Ahn emphasized the significance of the consistency of systems and policies affecting trade and investment between both nations, according to the ministry.
Yun mentioned that the U.S. Embassy will endeavor to further strengthen the Seoul-Washington alliance in security and the economy that has developed over the past 70 years.
