Washington — President Biden announced a trilateral agreement with the leaders of Japan and South Korea to deepen their security and economic commitments following a historic summit at the Camp David presidential retreat.
In a statement, President Biden expressed the significance of the summit, stating, “We meet in this historic place to make a historic moment, and I believe that to be true. This is a new era and partnership between Japan, the Republic of Korea, and the United States, our new ‘Camp David Trilat.'”
The joint statement, titled “The Spirit of Camp David,” outlined the renewed ties and commitments between the three nations. They agreed to enhance regional security cooperation, particularly in addressing North Korean belligerence and countering China. The leaders also pledged to consult and coordinate their responses to regional challenges through a hotline established during crises.
In terms of security, the three nations will strengthen information sharing about North Korean missile launches and cyber activities. They will also work together on missile-defense cooperation to counter nuclear and missile threats from North Korea, and reiterate their commitment to peace and stability in the Taiwan Straits.
On the economic front, the U.S., Japan, and South Korea will launch early-warning system pilots to expand information-sharing and coordinate responses to possible supply-chain disruptions.
Yoon Suk Yeol, South Korea’s president, emphasized the commitment to upholding freedom, human rights, and the rule of law, stating, “We will bolster the rules-based international order and play key roles to enhance regional security and prosperity based on our shared values.”
President Biden further emphasized the commitment to the trilateral partnership, stating that the leaders will meet annually, with regular gatherings of Cabinet-level officials. He described this as a response to the world’s need for new leadership and collective action.
National security adviser Jake Sullivan described the summit as a “new era” of cooperation and stressed the importance of the trilateral partnership in strengthening the Indo-Pacific region. However, he clarified that this agreement is not akin to NATO, as it does not include an Article 5 equivalent.
Sullivan also expressed the U.S.’s concerns about North Korea’s military cooperation with Russia but refrained from accusing Russia of violating U.N. sanctions.
Highlighting the significance of the summit’s location at Camp David, President Biden commended the political courage of Prime Minister Kishida and President Yoon in resolving longstanding issues.
The summit aimed to mend security and economic ties between Japan and South Korea, given their historical tensions. However, recent developments have led to a thawing of relations due to shared concerns about China’s assertiveness and North Korea’s ongoing nuclear threats.
Despite the complex history between Japan and South Korea, the Biden administration views this rapprochement as an opportunity for a transformative shift in the relationship. The choice of Camp David as the summit location symbolized the importance of U.S. relations with the two countries, considering its historical significance in hosting peace summits and leader-to-leader talks.
While the summit primarily focused on foreign policy matters, President Biden faced questions about his son Hunter Biden’s legal troubles. He declined to comment on the ongoing investigation, stating that it is up to the Justice Department to handle.
The relationship between South Korea and Japan has not been without political risks for President Yoon, given the bitter legacy of Japan’s colonial rule over Korea. However, recent efforts have contributed to an improvement in bilateral ties.
Overall, the trilateral agreement demonstrates a commitment to regional security and economic cooperation while addressing shared concerns and historical challenges.
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