Japan, South Korea, China Agree to Promote Cooperation: FM Iwaya

The foreign ministers of Japan, South Korea, and China came together in Tokyo on Saturday for important discussions aimed at strengthening cooperation in the region, Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya announced. This meeting was viewed as a significant step towards fostering deeper collaboration and promoting regional stability, despite past tensions among the three nations.

Speaking to reporters after the trilateral talks, Minister Iwaya expressed that the dialogue was productive, highlighting that the three countries had engaged in a “frank exchange of views” concerning various aspects of trilateral cooperation. The meeting addressed both bilateral and multilateral concerns, focusing on a wide range of issues that have a direct impact on the region, from economic ties to security concerns.

“We discussed regional international affairs from a broad perspective,” Iwaya said, emphasizing the importance of such open dialogues in addressing shared challenges. The ministers, he added, also confirmed their commitment to advancing future-oriented cooperation, with a shared focus on promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.

The talks also covered key issues such as economic collaboration, climate change, public health, and the North Korean situation. The countries acknowledged the need for continuous dialogue on these matters, recognizing the potential benefits of a coordinated approach to regional and global challenges.

South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who participated in the discussions, expressed optimism about the outcomes of the meeting. Both officials reiterated the significance of strengthening trilateral ties and enhancing mutual understanding, particularly given the complex dynamics of the Indo-Pacific region.

The trilateral cooperation agreement comes at a crucial time, as Japan, South Korea, and China seek to navigate a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape. While historical tensions have sometimes strained relations, there is a growing recognition of the necessity of diplomatic engagement to ensure long-term peace and stability. The foreign ministers' meeting represents a renewed effort to set aside differences and work together on common goals, with an eye toward the future.

The talks are expected to pave the way for more collaborative initiatives between the three countries, particularly in areas such as trade, technology, and security, where their combined influence can play a pivotal role in shaping the region’s future. The Japanese foreign minister concluded the meeting by reaffirming Japan’s commitment to fostering a constructive, peaceful, and prosperous environment in East Asia.