SEOUL, Sept. 6 (AJP) - Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida expressed support for President Yoon Suk Yeol's vision for Korean reunification at their summit held at the South Korean presidential office, Friday.
Kishida voiced his hopes for Yoon's "August 15 Unification Doctrine," which outlines three principles: "freedom-based values," "changes in the North Korean populace," and "international solidarity."
"I hope that President Yoon's approach toward North Korea will create an environment leading to peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula," the outgoing Japanese leader said. "Peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula are also in the great interest of the entire international community."
Those principles are intended to guide South Korea’s approach to reunification. The initiative has received mixed reactions domestically, with backing from the ruling People Power Party (PPP) but criticism from the main opposition Democratic Party (DP) and several civic groups, who argue that a unilateral approach could strain inter-Korean relations.
This meeting marked the 12th summit between Yoon and Kishida since Yoon took office in May 2022, reflecting ongoing efforts to strengthen cooperation between South Korea and Japan. Kishida acknowledged the progress, saying, "Since President Yoon's significant decision in March last year, dialogue and cooperation between our two countries have begun to advance significantly in many areas."
Kishida stressed the importance of ensuring that "the people of both countries can tangibly experience the fruits of this significant leap in our bilateral relations."
Addressing historical tensions stemming from Japan's occupation of Korea, Kishida stated, "There are various historical issues and ongoing matters between Japan and Korea, but it is crucial to carry forward the efforts of our predecessors who overcame difficult times and work together with Korea toward the future."
He also expressed personal regret over the past, noting, "I personally feel deep sorrow for the fact that so many people endured extremely difficult and painful experiences under challenging circumstances of the past."
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