SEOUL, April 30 (AJP) - The South Korean government denied U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's assertion that Seoul is seeking to conclude bilateral trade negotiations before its upcoming presidential election.
In a joint ministerial statement, the Ministry of Economy and Finance said, “We have never conveyed or discussed any intention to finalize the framework of negotiations with the United States before the presidential election.”
The ministry emphasized that, during recent “2+2” trade consultations, South Korean officials stressed the importance of considering domestic political circumstances and ensuring communication with the National Assembly throughout the negotiation process.
“There is no change in our position to proceed with consultations according to procedure without rushing,” the ministry added.
Bessent, speaking at a White House briefing on Tuesday, said that the outlines of trade talks with South Korea were gradually taking shape. He suggested that Seoul and Tokyo were seeking to establish basic agreements with Washington ahead of their respective elections in order to present diplomatic achievements to voters.
He further asserted that both countries had demonstrated a “stronger willingness” to resolve trade issues before election campaigns began — a timeline South Korean officials say was never discussed or agreed upon.
reporter
Candice Kim
candicekim1121@ajupress.com
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