By Jeon Misun 

Minister of Foreign Affairs Cho Hyun, in his first talks with his Japanese counterpart since taking office, has reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation.

Minister Cho attended an official meeting and working dinner on July 29 with Japanese Minister of Foreign Affairs Takeshi Iwaya in Tokyo, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in Seoul.

Both ministers exchanged in-depth views on key issues including improvement of bilateral relations as well as regional and international affairs.

With the 60th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic ties this year, they agreed that the milestone should serve as an occasion to boost cooperation between their diplomatic authorities, produce tangible outcomes and move toward a future-oriented relationship.

They also urged joint responses to challenges based on their respective national interests amid the changing global environment.

This meeting attracted attention as it occurred amid the continuation of high-level bilateral exchanges since the launch of the Lee administration in Seoul.

The two ministers also pledged to continue close communication to build a stronger and more mature bilateral relationship.

msjeon22@korea.kr