Former Japan Prime Minister Aso Taro called Korea's introduction of nuclear-powered submarines "a new model for security."
In a keynote speech at the Seoul Tokyo Forum held on the afternoon of the 16th at the Westin Josun Seoul, former Prime Minister Aso said he expects Korea and Japan to strengthen cooperation in semiconductors and supply chains, and he highlighted Korea-U.S. shipbuilding cooperation as a noteworthy issue in terms of economic security.
He said, "(Korea-U.S. shipbuilding cooperation) is not limited to civilian vessels and also contemplates building U.S. military ships," adding, "The United States and Korea have also agreed on Korea's introduction of nuclear-powered submarines, which could be a new model for security guarantees."
Aso also said progress in Korea-Japan and Korea-U.S.-Japan cooperation has been notable on the security front. Specifically, he cited the real-time missile warning data-sharing framework among the three countries and the Korea-U.S.-Japan joint drill "Freedom Edge." He added, "We need to continue advancing cooperation for the complete denuclearization of North Korea."
In particular, Aso gave a positive assessment of Korea's push to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). He said it is an important decision to maintain the free trade system.
He said, "It is important for Korea and Japan to act together to maintain and advocate a fair and multifaceted free trade system," adding, "Korea's entry into the CPTPP will be an important step toward that."