Prime Minister Fumio Kishida met with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol in Seoul on Friday. During the meeting, Kishida announced that a memorandum of understanding had been signed between the two countries. The memorandum aims to enhance cooperation in protecting Japanese and South Korean citizens residing in third countries.
This meeting is part of a series of reciprocal visits by the leaders of Japan and South Korea. Kishida has been actively promoting improved relations between Tokyo and Seoul, and this visit is seen as another step towards that goal. The leaders were expected to discuss various measures for the upcoming 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries next year, including plans for expanded people-to-people exchanges.
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Kishida expressed his satisfaction with the progress made in Japan-Korea relations. He stated, “With President Yoon, I was able to open a new chapter in Japan-Korea relations. We must continue on this path.” He also highlighted that the signing of the memorandum is an example of growing trust between both nations.
This visit marks the fifth reciprocal visit between Japan and South Korea since talks resumed last year after a 12-year hiatus. The leaders have developed a strong level of trust through their frequent face-to-face meetings, with this being their 12th encounter.
this meeting signifies an important milestone in strengthening bilateral ties between Japan and South Korea. The signed memorandum reflects both countries’ commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of their citizens residing abroad while fostering closer cooperation moving forward.