Minister Ahn Gyu-baek of the Ministry of National Defense met with U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth on the 18th at the Ministry of National Defense in Yongsan to discuss the security situation on the Korean Peninsula and ways to develop the ROK-U.S. alliance, the ministry stated.
According to the Ministry of National Defense, Minister Ahn emphasized that support from the U.S. Congress is essential for the development of the ROK-U.S. alliance. He also requested continued attention from the U.S. Congress to strengthen the ROK-U.S. combined defense posture and enhance the implementation of extended deterrence.
He also expressed gratitude for Senator Duckworth's proactive initiation of the resolution for the completion of the 'Wall of Remembrance in the Korean War Veterans Memorial Park' in 2022, which contributed to strengthening the ROK-U.S. alliance.
Senator Duckworth emphasized her particular interest in the security of the Korean Peninsula, reaffirming that the U.S. Forces Korea are a key pillar in deterring North Korean threats and maintaining peace and stability on the peninsula, and promised active support from Congress for the U.S. Forces Korea.
Both sides evaluated that the ROK-U.S. alliance has significantly grown in both quality and quantity but agreed that enhancing mutually beneficial cooperation, especially in areas like shipbuilding, maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO), and defense industries is necessary.
Both sides agreed on the importance of the roles of not only the governments but also the legislatures of both countries in strengthening the ROK-U.S. alliance and decided to work closely for the continued development of the alliance.