(LEAD) Lee says CPTPP entry unavoidable; membership during his term unlikely

President Lee Jae Myung acknowledged on Monday the concerns of Korean farmers and fishermen regarding the country's potential membership in the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). He has vowed to take steps to prevent any adverse impact on these sectors during a meeting with representatives from agriculture, fisheries, forestry, and livestock industries.

The president's pledge came as he addressed controversies surrounding the sectors, including the potential membership in CPTPP. Earlier this month, Lee had instructed the government not to apply for CPTPP membership this year, promising to hold sufficient consultations with farmers and fishermen who oppose Korea's entry into the major Indo-Pacific trade bloc.

While CPTPP membership is anticipated to boost Korea's exports, it is likely to negatively affect the agricultural and fisheries sectors due to market opening. President Lee expressed his awareness of the worries and concerns over CPTPP, assuring the representatives that "there will be no cases of you sustaining unfair damage." He added that he has instructed officials to make decisions on CPTPP entry through sufficient consultations.