(LEAD) FM Cho vows efforts to create conditions for nuclear sub project

Foreign Minister Cho Hyun pledged on August 5 to advance negotiations with the United States regarding the conditions necessary for developing nuclear-powered submarines, as well as bolstering the nation's ability to enrich uranium and reprocess spent nuclear fuel. During a briefing for President Lee Jae Myung, Cho outlined a policy approach centered on a virtuous cycle of self-reliance, alliance, and solidarity.

The foreign ministry aims to foster consultations that secure the necessary conditions for constructing nuclear-powered submarines and establish an environment conducive to enrichment and reprocessing pursuits. Cho emphasized the need to strengthen the South Korea-U.S. alliance in strategic domains, such as shipbuilding, while concurrently coordinating closely with Washington on economic and trade matters.

Regarding North Korea, Cho stated that the ministry will endeavor to pave the way for peaceful coexistence with the North, in partnership with multilateral entities like the United Nations. The ministry will continue working alongside Washington to rekindle dialogue with Pyongyang and restart denuclearization talks through a phased strategy, commencing with North Korea's suspension of its nuclear programs.

Cho also underscored the importance of deepening diplomatic relations with the Group of Seven, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, while expanding diplomatic channels through upcoming summits with Central Asian nations. Additionally, high-level consultations between Seoul and Washington on pressing security concerns, including the revision of the Korea-U.S. nuclear energy agreement, are scheduled to occur soon.

These consultations, alongside South Korea's investments in the U.S. and bilateral shipbuilding cooperation, are pivotal elements of a joint fact sheet established following the summit between President Lee and U.S. President Donald Trump. Although no official consultations have been held, working-level discussions are underway.

Cho highlighted the potential for high-level meetings with Secretary of State Marco Rubio during the U.N. General Assembly high-level session in September and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) in November in China. Concerning South Korea's potential role in ensuring security in the Strait of Hormuz, Cho mentioned that plans, such as dispatching mine-clearance vessels, have been temporarily suspended due to the deteriorating situation in the region.

If the circumstances change to facilitate a resolution, the government will undoubtedly engage in the consultations.