The Blue House stated on September 24 that it is too early to pursue a free trade agreement (FTA) with Mexico, emphasizing the need to first observe the results of the review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) before expanding the framework for economic cooperation.
A senior official from the Blue House shared this perspective during a briefing in Mexico City, noting, "Our preference is there, but we believe Mexico is not yet prepared for that. Mexico is currently in discussions with the U.S. regarding the USMCA review."
Many South Korean companies operating in Mexico import South Korean materials and components, process and assemble them locally, and then export to the U.S. This structure suggests that the outcome of the USMCA origin regulations review could influence discussions on the economic agreement between the two countries.
The official added, "It is too early to push for an FTA; we may consider a trade framework that is a step below an FTA. For now, the agreement between the two leaders is to keep options open and first observe the results of the USMCA."
In the meantime, the two countries plan to establish a joint committee at the director level to explore mutual benefits and advance to the next stage accordingly.
Concerns regarding Mexico's tariff measures affecting South Korean businesses were also discussed in detail during the summit.
The official remarked, "We have had quite a bit of discussion. The president's negotiation style during the summit tends to focus on systematic and concrete outcomes rather than remaining at a general level."
In the defense sector, there is potential for follow-up discussions regarding South Korean weapon systems, including the FA-50.
The Blue House official stated, "One of the main topics discussed was defense cooperation between South Korea and Mexico, with the FA-50 being one of the subjects mentioned. We provided explanations, and the Mexican side listened and agreed to continue follow-up discussions."
Additionally, the Blue House addressed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's announcement during the UN General Assembly that two North Korean POWs captured by Ukrainian forces were recently sent to South Korea.
The official stated regarding the North Korean POW issue, "From the beginning, we have consistently approached this matter in accordance with the parties' free will, international law, domestic law, and humanitarian principles, handling it quietly."
They added, "Handling it quietly allows for a swift, smooth, and safe resolution. The government has been working under the principle of processing it quickly and safely."
Regarding President Zelensky's public remarks, the official acknowledged, "It is true that it felt somewhat different from what was previously agreed upon, and the president expressed some disappointment about that."
However, the government was aware of the possibility that the Ukrainian side would mention the North Korean POW issue during the UN General Assembly speech.
On September 23, President Zelensky revealed in his UN speech that two North Korean POWs captured by Ukrainian forces had recently been sent to South Korea.
Concerning the mine explosion incident in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) on the western front, the official denied claims that the investigation was delayed or that the incident was being covered up.
The official stated, "Such investigations are being conducted objectively, swiftly, and thoroughly. There is no suspicion arising from the investigation whatsoever."
They explained that the time taken for the on-site investigation is due to the dangers associated with the accident site.
The official noted that, unlike past mine incidents, this accident occurred while developing a new search route rather than using an existing one, stating, "It is the most dangerous area, so we are approaching it cautiously and in cooperation with the UN Command."
They emphasized, "There is absolutely no possibility of any flaws, concealment, or cover-up. Please wait a little longer, and we will bring results as quickly as possible, considering the risks involved."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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