What Will the Trilateral Talks Among South Korea, US, and Japan Entail During APEC?
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Synopsis
In a significant diplomatic move, South Korea, the US, and Japan are convening for trilateral talks during the APEC summit, aiming to strengthen their cooperative ties amidst evolving geopolitical challenges. This meeting, following a summit between leaders, presents a crucial opportunity for reaffirming commitments and navigating trade complexities.
Key Takeaways
- Trilateral cooperation among South Korea, the US, and Japan is crucial for regional stability.
- The meeting will be held in a closed-door format, highlighting its importance.
- Negotiations around South Korea's investment pledge are critical for trade relations.
- The talks occur against a backdrop of changing leadership dynamics.
- Continued dialogue is essential to navigate complex geopolitical challenges.
Gyeongju, Oct 28 (NationPress) South Korea, the United States, and Japan are set to engage in trilateral discussions among their senior diplomats during the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meeting this week, as announced by Seoul's foreign ministry on Tuesday.
The discussions are scheduled to be held in a closed-door format on Wednesday afternoon, with the ministry refraining from providing additional details.
This meeting is anticipated to follow summit talks between President Lee Jae Myung and US President Donald Trump, as reported by diplomatic sources and the Yonhap News Agency.
This will be the inaugural three-nation dialogue involving Foreign Minister Cho Hyun, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi, since the establishment of the new Japanese cabinet led by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who was appointed last week.
The meeting is expected to provide a platform for the three nations to reaffirm their commitment to strengthening their trilateral cooperation.
Concerns have arisen regarding the future of trilateral collaboration, especially since Trump commenced his second term with a focus on an "America First" policy and imposing aggressive tariffs on the US' two principal Asian allies.
The dynamics between South Korea and Japan have become precarious with the election of the first female leader, known for her firm stance on matters arising from Japan's colonial history in the Korean Peninsula.
Sources indicate that a trilateral meeting involving Lee, Trump, and Takaichi may not occur this time.
Simultaneously, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung arrived in Gyeongju, the venue for the APEC summit, on Tuesday, preparing for significant discussions with US President Donald Trump.
Lee arrived in the city in the afternoon as the APEC chair, with no public engagements scheduled for the remainder of the day, according to a notice from the presidential office.
He is expected to hold summit discussions with Trump on Wednesday, following a speech at the opening ceremony of the APEC CEO Summit earlier that day.
The stakes are high for Lee's meeting with Trump, as Seoul and Washington are engaged in critical negotiations aimed at bridging gaps over South Korea's USD 350 billion investment commitment, which is vital for finalizing a trade agreement that would alleviate US tariffs on Korean products.
It remains uncertain whether both sides can finalize an agreement in time for the summit, as discussions continue over pivotal sticking points, including the funding of the investment package.
Wednesday's summit will mark the second in-person meeting between Lee and Trump, following their first discussions in August at the White House.
The primary APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting is scheduled for Friday and Saturday.
Point of View
The trilateral talks among South Korea, the US, and Japan during the APEC summit are crucial for reinforcing diplomatic ties and addressing economic challenges. These discussions come at a time of uncertainty, highlighting the need for collaboration and mutual understanding among these key players in the Asia-Pacific region.
NationPress
24/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the trilateral talks during APEC?
The trilateral talks aim to strengthen cooperation among South Korea, the US, and Japan, reaffirming their commitment to partnership amidst evolving geopolitical challenges.
When and where will the talks take place?
The talks are scheduled for Wednesday afternoon in Gyeongju, South Korea, during the APEC gathering.
Who will be participating in the trilateral discussions?
Participants include South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi.
What are the main topics expected to be discussed?
The discussions will likely address trade agreements, regional security, and reaffirming commitments to trilateral cooperation.
How does this meeting relate to recent leadership changes?
This meeting is significant as it marks the first trilateral talks since the election of Japan's first female leader, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.
