Japan, China, and South Korea discuss denuclearization cooperation

Foreign ministers from Japan, China, and South Korea met to discuss important regional issues. They focused on denuclearization efforts on the Korean Peninsula and sought agreement on topics like aging populations, low birth rates, natural disasters, and cultural exchanges. This meeting comes amid rising tensions in the region. Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya expressed worries about North Korea's nuclear and missile activities. He called for full denuclearization under United Nations resolutions. Iwaya also condemned Russia's actions in Ukraine, highlighting concerns about China's increasing assertiveness. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi supported the idea of creating a mutual regional economy. He suggested that cooperation in various fields, including technology and climate, would strengthen East Asian relations. The ministers are planning a leaders' summit later this year to address political and economic uncertainties. South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul emphasized the importance of their cooperation in a world facing division. He highlighted that their collective efforts could serve as a model for global collaboration. Later, Japan and China were set to hold their first high-level economic talks since 2019, with all three ministers engaging in bilateral discussions. Japan and South Korea have been strengthening their ties, motivated by shared concerns about China. In December, Tokyo and Beijing reached an agreement to improve their relationship despite existing disputes, including over claimed territories.