Japanese, South Korean foreign ministers discuss development of bilateral ties
Cho is visiting Japan for the first time since he assumed the post earlier this month. He met Iwaya at the Foreign Ministry on Tuesday.
Iwaya said bilateral relations, as well as trilateral ties among Japan, South Korea and the United States, are more important than ever in light of the current strategic environment. He expressed hope that they will steadily develop bilateral relations.
Iwaya noted that the two governments have maintained close communication since the launch of President Lee Jae-myung's administration.
He said the two countries must work closely together on a wide range of issues, including those involving the Indo-Pacific region.
Cho responded that the Lee administration aims to strengthen ties with friendly countries. He said if they can work together on strategies through close cooperation and attempts to build communication, they can overcome crises considering the harsh international situation.
Details of the meeting were not immediately available.
But the two foreign ministers are believed to have affirmed close partnership in dealing with North Korea's nuclear and missile development programs and its abduction of foreign nationals.
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