On Tuesday, President Lee Jae Myung met with a delegation from the U.S. House of Representatives to discuss South Korea’s role and potential collaboration in light of the ongoing Middle East conflict.
During the meeting at the Blue House, President Lee remarked on like many nations worldwide, they’re grappling with significant challenges due to the recent Middle East crisis. He would appreciate any insights or advice it may have regarding the situation’s progress or recommendations for South Korea.
The meeting was attended by six members of the House’s Korea Study Group. The delegation included Representatives Ami Bera (D-CA), Ryan Zinke (R-MT), Mark Pocan (D-WI), Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA), Jill Tokuda (D-HI), and Pat Harrigan (R-NC).
President Lee expressed his gratitude, stating that the world is currently facing complex and difficult circumstances, and he thanks on behalf of the Korean people for the interest in South Korea. Lee particularly values the U.S. Congress’s attention to Korean issues and the dedicated research efforts. He believes this will greatly contribute to strengthening U.S.-South Korea relations.
He added that its bilateral relationship has deepened and expanded significantly since the two summit meetings with former President Donald Trump last year.
President Lee also emphasized that it will never forget the substantial contributions the U.S. has made to South Korea’s development, including during the Korean War. It will continue to support the revival of American manufacturing and the expansion of the U.S.’s global role, striving to play the part as a reliable partner.
Furthermore, he stated that they’re deeply invested in the stable development of U.S.-South Korea relations. It anticipates that the U.S. government, including former President Trump, will continue to play a crucial role in ensuring peace and stability in Northeast Asia.
It’s worth noting that President Lee previously met with Senators Andy Kim and Tammy Duckworth during their visit to South Korea last August. He also engaged with members of the U.S. Congressional delegation during his trip to New York City for the United Nations (UN) General Assembly in September of the same year.