Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs for Political Affairs Chung Byung-won (middle) on May 16 speaks during the 9th ASEAN-ROK Dialogue in Bangkok, Thailand. (Official Facebook of the ASEAN)
By Kim Hyelin
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs from May 15-16 discussed cooperation and international politics with Southeast Asia at the 29th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)-ROK (Republic of Korea) Dialogue in Bangkok, Thailand, after both sides concluded their comprehensive strategic partnership last year.
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs for Political Affairs Chung Byung-won, the leader of the Korean delegation, said bilateral cooperation has consistently progressed in a range of sectors like politics and security, economy, trade, and society and culture. He also proposed stronger ties focused on key joint projects including digital transformation, cybersecurity, climate change and the environment, and development of future generations.
Participants assessed the overall implementation of the 2021-25 bilateral plan of action and reviewed preparation for the adoption of one for 2026-30 to decisively lead the enforcement of the partnership at ASEAN's foreign ministers' summit in July.
ASEAN thanked Korea for its diplomacy position focused on Southeast Asia and requested support for the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, which will be adopted at this year's ASEAN Summit starting on May 26.
Deputy Minister Chung also held separate consultations with the chief representatives from Thailand and Malaysia on issues of common interest. They also agreed to cooperate for a successful hosting of the July meeting and the ASEAN Summit in October in Malaysia.
kimhyelin211@korea.kr
