Exploring New Frontiers Together For A Better World
As the United States of America and South Korea affirmed their rock solid alliance in the 21st century, both countries also affirmed strong cooperation on global challenges that the world is facing today.
Ranging from the deadly ebola outbreak in Africa to violent extremism in Syria, both countries have stepped up cooperation.
In his remarks at “Korea Going Forward” Conference in Washington DC, US Assistant Secretary Daniel R. Russel for Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs said American and Korean doctors and nurses went to treat patients suffering from the ravages of Ebola in West Africa last year.
In terms of countering extremism, both nations have also supported international efforts to counter the surge, and Korea has contributed to humanitarian assistance in Iraq and Syria as well.
In terms of human rights, Korea helped bring attention to issues of global significance, from North Korean human rights to the impact of conflict on women and children.
In the aspect of climate change, South Korea is playing an important leadership role as host of the global Green Climate Fund, to which the U.S. has pledged $3 billion.
Both nations are making an ambitious and concrete pledge to reduce greenhouse gas emissions as well.
On Cyber Security
US recognizes South Korea as a leading digital innovator, a hub of our connected planet, and simultaneously a country that fully understands the threat of malicious cyber actors. In line with this, both nations can do together to ensure a secure, open, reliable, and free cyber space.
“Over the last few years, the United States and Korea have deepened our cooperation on cyber security in a number of ways.” – Mr. Russel
The World Needs US and South Korea
According to Mr. Russel, as developing and transitioning states, both nations know that the world needs them, whether it’s helping with child and maternal health in Africa, or helping countries in Asia transition to democracy.
“We have to lead, not just with money, but with a commitment to universal values-by standing up for what we believe, even when that’s hard.” – Mr. Russel
US-South Korea Alliance Stronger Than Ever
According to Mr. Russel, progress in the US-South Korea alliance is dramatic.
Both nations are taking stock of their rock solid alliance – an alliance that is stronger than ever.
“We are charting out new frontiers for US-Korean cooperation around the globe.” – Mr. Russel
The strong alliance between the nations is manifested in the 28,500 U.S. troops on the Peninsula, training together and standing ready to defend the Republic of Korea alongside Korean forces.
In addition, the strong economic partnership in the sales of everything from Florida orange juice and Ford Tauruses in Seoul has proven the two countries’ cooperation in boosting economy.
“We see the strength of our partnership in the close coordination between our leaders.” – Mr. Russel
In fact, President Obama and President Park are in regular touch; Foreign Minister Yun and Secretary Kerry had a working dinner and an extended meeting in Seoul just a week ago; and diplomats of both nations work side-by-side on an ongoing basis.
US And South Korea Celebrate 60 Years Of Alliance
US and South Korea are two very close friends, countries, that have traveled a very interesting journey together for 60 years now.
The United States and the Republic of South Korea for decades have worked side-by-side as allies.
Both countries have stood up to a wide range of challenges over that period of time, not just in the Asia Pacific, but in other parts of the world as well.
In addition, US-South Korea alliance remains critical to American engagement in Asia which is a linchpin of peace and stability in the region.
The United States is completely committed to deepening this relationship in the years ahead.
