Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, acting on behalf of the president, said on the 14th, "There will be a video conference between South Korea and the United States regarding Alaska liquefied natural gas (LNG) in a day or two."
During a meeting of the Economic Security Strategy Task Force (TF) held that day at the Prime Minister's residence in Samcheong-dong, Han noted, "South Korea and the United States will start negotiations to derive specific details in the near future."
Han stated, "After the recent phone call between the presidents of South Korea and the United States, President Trump temporarily suspended the mutual tariff application for a period of 90 days," adding, "Over the past weekend, he announced a policy to readjust the exemption of mutual tariffs on smartphones and computers, which comprise a large part of our exports."
He continued, "President Trump also agreed to our willingness to engage in sincere negotiations that benefit both sides," and said, "As a friendly momentum has been established between the two countries, both governments will prioritize trade negotiations and strive to minimize the burdens imposed by tariffs."
Han stated, "I will form a negotiating team led by Minister (Ahn Deok-geun) and push for discussions in a timely manner," and added, "Considering issues of mutual interest, such as tariffs, LNG, and strengthening shipbuilding cooperation, we will continue consultations at various levels to find mutually beneficial agreements."
He further added, "If necessary, I will make efforts to communicate directly with President Trump to find a solution."
Han also mentioned, "We will actively improve domestic systems and practices that do not meet global standards," and said, "We will boldly eliminate unreasonable regulations to create an environment in which corporations can grow, and activate foreign investments and domestic entries for foreign companies."
He especially urged government officials, saying, "I hope you become key figures in leveraging external and internal economic crises with a creative perspective that breaks old practices."
He added, "Although the negotiation process with the U.S. side may not be easy, I will strive to minimize the difficulties our corporations will face," and said, "All economic teams will work together with the private sector to turn the crisis into an opportunity."