Minister Cho Hyun of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs spoke by phone with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and emphasized close communication between South Korea and the United States.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the 24th, the Minister spoke with Secretary Rubio by phone that day and exchanged views on a range of issues, including South Korea–U.S. relations, the Korean Peninsula, and global developments.
The two ministers were said to have confirmed a shared understanding that close communication between South Korea and the United States is more important than ever amid rapidly changing international dynamics.
They also said they should pool their wisdom to produce mutually beneficial outcomes in areas such as tariff and investment agreements, shipbuilding, and security cooperation, so they can further elevate bilateral ties.
The two ministers also agreed to continue close communication and coordination to maintain a strong South Korea–U.S. combined defense posture and to work for peace on the Korean Peninsula and a resolution to the North Korean nuclear issue.
The Minister was reportedly quoted as saying the Korean government would also do its utmost so that recent messages from U.S. President Donald Trump can lead to a resumption of U.S.–North Korea dialogue and peace on the Korean Peninsula.
It is interpreted as a remark prompted by concerns over "tolerating North Korea's nuclear program," after President Trump mentioned the possibility of talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un within the year while avoiding references to denuclearization.
Secretary Rubio was said to have outlined U.S. efforts to restore peace and stability in the Middle East, including the situation involving Iran.
The two sides also agreed to meet in person at an early date to continue more in-depth consultations.