Japan, US, S.Korea reaffirm cooperation to deal with N.Korea

Diplomats from Japan, the United States and South Korea have reaffirmed their close cooperation to respond to North Korea's missile and nuclear threat.

Japan's Vice Foreign Minister Mori Takeo, US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman and South Korean First Vice Foreign Minister Cho Hyun-dong met in Washington on Monday.

At a joint news conference after their talks, the three officials said that they agreed to work closely together against North Korea, which continues test launches of ballistic missiles at an unprecedented frequency.

There is a possibility that the North may conduct its seventh nuclear test at any time.

Mori said that they agreed on close cooperation in efforts to enhance regional deterrence, as well as in the three countries' activities at the United Nations, including the Security Council. Japan currently is a non-permanent member of the council.

Mori said that they also reaffirmed cooperation in diplomatic efforts to realize North Korea's complete denuclearization.

Sherman emphasized the resolute commitment by the US to defending Japan and South Korea.

Cho said that their talks reflected that the trilateral cooperation for the peace and prosperity of the Korean Peninsula has developed to the highest level.

He said that he hopes the three nations will continue to work together.

Source: https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20230214_07/