NHK

Japanese PM Kishida wants to further strengthen ties with S.Korean president

Japan's Prime Minister Kishida Fumio says he wants to further strengthen ties with South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol and open a new era together.

Kishida spoke to reporters in Seoul on Monday morning after wrapping up his official schedule in South Korea. This is his first visit to the country as prime minister.

In Sunday's summit talks, he agreed with Yoon that moves to improve bilateral ties are back on track. They also confirmed they will strengthen security cooperation in light of North Korea's nuclear and missile programs.

After the meeting, Kishida attended a dinner at Yoon's official residence.

Kishida said he and Yoon had meaningful talks at Sunday's dinner, and this has helped to deepen mutual trust.

The prime minister also referred to the G7 summit that will open in Hiroshima next week.

Kishida said he wants to use the opportunity to confirm that the Group of Seven major countries will work together to continue tough sanctions against Russia and strong support for Ukraine. He said he also wants to confirm the group's unwavering solidarity with Ukraine.

Kishida also expressed hope that sufficient talks can be held about challenges in the Indo-Pacific, including the situation in East Asia.

Source: https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20230508_15/