During a commemorative event marking the 26th anniversary of the June 15 Inter-Korean Summit at the Kim Dae-jung Library at Yonsei University in Seoul, Lee's speech was delivered by Chief of Staff Kang Hoon-sik.
Lee emphasized that the June 15 Joint Declaration was a valuable promise to develop inter-Korean relations and achieve peaceful unification based on understanding and respect for one another. He noted that the government is translating that spirit into action, not just words.
He acknowledged the challenges in reopening dialogue between the two Koreas, stating, "Despite our government's efforts to resume dialogue and cooperation, the door to inter-Korean talks has not opened easily." However, he stressed that they cannot be discouraged or give up due to temporary difficulties.
The president highlighted that peaceful coexistence is the only way for both Koreas to prosper together, asserting that peace on the Korean Peninsula is also in the common interest of Northeast Asia and the world.
Lee reiterated the importance of transforming changes in the international situation surrounding the Korean Peninsula into new opportunities for joint prosperity. He promised to do his utmost to ensure that the two Koreas can sit down and continue dialogue, just as they did 26 years ago.
Meanwhile, during his official visit to the Vatican, President Lee also remarked at a special mass held at St. Paul Outside the Walls on June 14 that the June 15 Joint Declaration was a historic turning point that signaled the possibility of dialogue and cooperation beyond long-standing hostility and tension. He expressed confidence that the spark of hope remains alive today.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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