1. Minister Yu Myung-hwan met with the U.S. Secretary of State
Condoleezza Rice on March 26 over luncheon. They had a
preliminary discussion for coordinating the upcoming Korea-U.S.
summit slated for April 19 as well as extensive and constructive
discussions on major pending issues involving the two countries
and on ways to promote bilateral cooperation on the regional and
global issues.
2. Minister Yu and Secretary Rice noted that the Korea-U.S. alliance
has played a major role in promoting security and economic
development on Korean Peninsula and in securing peace and
stability in Northeast Asia for the past 50 years. They agreed to
exert collaborative efforts to further develop the alliance for the
increase of mutual benefits based on common values and understanding. Also, the two sides shared a view
that the upcoming Korea-U.S. summit in mid-April will be a milestone for developing the Korea-US
relationship and strengthening the foundation of trust for Korea-US alliance. They agreed to exert every
effort to make the summit a success.
3. For the peaceful resolution of the North Korean nuclear issue, the two sides agreed to work closely within
the framework of the six-party talks. They agreed to increase efforts so that the on-going second phase of
denuclearization is completed and next phase of the dismantlement can start at the earliest date possible.
Under the notion that time and patience have been running out due to the delay of nuclear declaration on
the North Korean part, they shared a view that the declaration has to be made as soon as possible.
4. Minister Yu and Secretary Rice shared an understanding that the early ratification of the Korea-U.S. Free
Trade Agreement will benefit both countries, and agreed to push forward actively its ratification. Also, the
two sides agreed to exert utmost efforts to build more institutional frameworks for the development of Korea-
U.S. relations, by expediting the process of Korea’s entry to the U.S. Visa Waiver Program. In addition, they
agreed to actively seek new projects to strengthen the friendly and cooperative ties by establishing youth
exchange networks and vitalizing Working Holiday programs.
5. Lastly, Minister Yu and Secretary Rice agreed to find ways to extend the scope of the Korea-U.S.
cooperation onto key global issues such as restoring peace and helping with reconstruction in conflict-torn
areas, eradicating poverty, promoting human rights and dealing with climate change.
Spokesperson of MOFAT
* unofficial translation