Here is an article detailing the joint press conference between the U.S. Secretary of Defense and the Republic of Korea Minister of National Defense:
U.S. and Republic of Korea Defense Leaders Reaffirm Strong Alliance and Commitment to Regional Security
WASHINGTON D.C. – On November 12, 2023, the U.S. Department of Defense hosted a significant joint press conference featuring Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III and Republic of Korea (ROK) Minister of National Defense Shin Won-sik. The meeting underscored the unwavering strength and depth of the U.S.-ROK alliance and highlighted a shared commitment to maintaining peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and throughout the Indo-Pacific region.
Secretary Austin initiated the conference by warmly welcoming Minister Shin, emphasizing the enduring nature of the alliance, forged in shared sacrifice and mutual respect. He reiterated the United States’ “ironclad” commitment to the defense of the Republic of Korea, emphasizing that this commitment remains as strong today as it has ever been. The discussion between the two leaders focused on a range of critical security issues, including the evolving threat posed by North Korea and broader regional security challenges.
Minister Shin echoed these sentiments, expressing his gratitude for the robust U.S. security commitment and acknowledging the vital role the U.S. plays in deterring aggression and ensuring the safety of the Korean people. He highlighted the importance of continued cooperation and coordination in addressing the multifaceted security landscape.
A central theme of the press conference was the continued vigilance and readiness in the face of North Korea’s provocative actions. Both leaders reaffirmed their dedication to strengthening deterrence capabilities and ensuring a coordinated response to any North Korean aggression. This includes ongoing efforts to enhance combined military readiness through joint exercises and training, which serve to hone operational capabilities and interoperability between U.S. and ROK forces.
Beyond the immediate concerns regarding North Korea, the discussions also touched upon broader regional security cooperation. Secretary Austin and Minister Shin underscored the importance of a free and open Indo-Pacific and their shared vision for a region where all nations can prosper peacefully. They affirmed their intention to deepen collaboration with like-minded partners to address shared challenges and promote collective security.
The press conference served as a clear demonstration of the strong and dynamic partnership between the United States and the Republic of Korea. The productive dialogue between Secretary Austin and Minister Shin reinforces the strategic importance of this alliance and its critical role in contributing to peace and security in a vital region of the world. Both leaders expressed their confidence in the continued strength and resilience of the U.S.-ROK alliance and their commitment to working together to navigate the complex security environment.
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Defense.gov published ‘Secretary of Defense Joint Press Conference With Republic of Korea (ROK) Minister of National Defense’ at 2023-11-12 20:05. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.