1. On Friday, July 5, Minister of Foreign Affairs Cho Tae-yul met with new Japanese Ambassador to the Republic of Korea Mizushima Koichi and exchanged views on Korea-Japan relations.

2. Foreign Minister Cho welcomed the Ambassador's appointment, saying that it came at a time when the Korea-Japan relationship, which is of paramount importance to both countries' national security and interests, is developing on the foundation of deep trust between the leaders of both countries.

3. Foreign Minister Cho emphasized the need for both countries to manage bilateral issues wisely with a mutual understanding and consideration, in order to solidify the positive momentum of Korea-Japan relations ahead of the 60th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations next year.

4. Ambassador Mizushima expressed his hope for continued close communication between the leaders and the Foreign Ministers of both countries based on their trust in each other. He also agreed with Foreign Minister Cho on the importance of managing current issues on the basis of mutual understanding.

5. The two sides appreciated close cooperation among Korea, the United States and Japan amid the deepening ties between Russia and North Korea, agreeing that it is important to continue this cooperation on various occasions such as multilateral meetings and UN Security Council sessions.