On the evening of October 22, Cho Hyun, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, emphasized the role of the business sectors in both Korea and Japan in promoting exchanges among future generations during a welcome speech at the 33rd Korea-Japan Business Conference, co-hosted by the Korea Economic Association and the Japan Business Federation.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on October 23, Minister Cho stated that the relationship between Korea and Japan has settled into a stable development trajectory, more than ever, based on active shuttle diplomacy since the inauguration of the Lee Jae-myung administration. He noted that under the mutual understanding of the leaders of both countries, Korea and Japan are advancing concrete cooperation in strategic economic areas such as supply chains, economic security, energy and resources, advanced industries, and science and technology, as well as addressing common social issues like low birth rates, aging populations, and regional growth imbalances.
Minister Cho also mentioned that both countries are closely communicating to establish a framework for comprehensive economic cooperation that enhances joint prosperity and economic resilience while contributing to peace in the region and the world.
He highlighted that despite the ups and downs in bilateral relations over the past 60 years since the normalization of diplomatic ties, the spirit of trust and cooperation built through long-standing exchanges in the business sectors has played a significant role in maintaining both countries as key partners. He underscored the importance of the Korea-Japan Business Conference in fostering a forward-looking development of Korea-Japan relations.
Furthermore, Minister Cho pointed out that last year, the number of visitors traveling between Korea and Japan surpassed 13 million for the first time, indicating a positive trend in human exchanges and goodwill. He urged business leaders from both countries to take an active role in expanding and supporting exchanges among future generations, which are the foundation and hope of the bilateral relationship.
In conclusion, Minister Cho expressed his hopes for the successful hosting of the 33rd Korea-Japan Business Conference and urged that, amid the rapidly changing international landscape and challenging domestic and external environments, the conference continues to propose future-oriented cooperation measures for both countries to move toward a better future together.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.