1. On August 26, Foreign Minister Yun Byung-se met with former US Representative Dan Burton and his delegation, who are visiting the Republic of Korea, and exchanged views on a range of issues, including the recent situation on the Korean Peninsula, the ROK-US alliance, and the ROK’s unification policy.

* Former US Representative Burton is visiting the ROK with his delegation from August 25 to 29.

* The delegation consists of former US Ambassador to the ROK Christopher Hill, former Representative Todd Tiahrt, former Representative John Doolittle, Professor Alexandre Mansourov at the School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) of Johns Hopkins University, Times Holdings Group CEO Michael Jenkins, Chairman of the Board of Directors of The Washington Times Tom McDevitt, and President of The Washington Times Larry Moffitt.

2. Minister Yun said that the ROK government’s resolute and measured response toward North Korea’s landmine and artillery provocations has lead to an agreement to improve inter-Korean relations. Minister Yun also expressed hope that the recent agreement will be faithfully implemented and thereby serve as a positive opportunity to develop an inter-Korean relationship based on trust.

3. In addition, Minister Yun noted with appreciation that the strong ROK-US combined defense posture played a major role in the process of reaching an agreement between South and North Korea. Minister Yun also mentioned that the ROK-US alliance has remained strong for over 60 years, thanks to the firm support of the US Congress and media, and now has grown into a comprehensive strategic alliance, promoting cooperation not only on security and economy but also on global issues.

4. Former Representative Burton and other members of the delegation expressed active support for the ROK government’s efforts to resolve the situation surrounding North Korea’s provocations.

o Former Representative Burton mentioned that key figures in US political circles consider the ROK the closest and most reliable ally, and that he also looked forward to the ROK playing an active role in the international community.

5. Expressing hope that the recent progress in inter-Korean relations will ultimately lead to building the foundation for unification, Minister Yun requested the US Congress’ active and bipartisan support for the reunification of Korea.

6. Former Representative Burton said that he will work to promote peace and reconciliation in Northeast Asia, and that he will clearly convey the ROK government’s views to political circles and the media in the US.


*unofficial translation