The foreign ministers of South Korea, the United States, and Japan have reiterated their dedication to a robust deterrence strategy against North Korea, while also committing to enhance trilateral cooperation on regional security, economic resilience, and the development of emerging technologies. This affirmation came during discussions on the sidelines of ASEAN-related ministerial meetings in Manila.
South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi collectively emphasized the importance of maintaining close cooperation on North Korea policy. They agreed to continue efforts towards achieving the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula through dialogue and diplomacy, supported by credible deterrence measures.
In addition to addressing North Korea, the ministers engaged in discussions on broader regional and global security issues, focusing on developments in Northeast Asia and the Middle East. They stressed their commitment to upholding freedom of navigation and overflight, adherence to international law, and enhancing maritime security across the Indo-Pacific region.
On the economic front, the three nations agreed to bolster their collaboration in several key areas, including nuclear energy, critical minerals, supply chain resilience, and advanced technologies. They also addressed the need to tackle economic coercion and pledged to improve joint efforts in disaster relief, humanitarian assistance, and combating transnational crime.
The meeting highlighted the shared resolve of South Korea, the United States, and Japan to expand practical cooperation and hold regular consultations aimed at addressing mutual security and economic challenges. This commitment signals a strategic strengthening of ties in response to evolving regional dynamics.