Korea-Japan Step for Economy Treaty

Japan`s Prime Minister expressed his strong interest in the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Korean and Japan, saying “I will move forward with a plan for human exchange and economic cooperation to conclude a Korea-Japan economy treaty.”

At a press conference with Korean press reporters in the Prime Minister`s residence, Koizumi Juichiro stated, “when 50 million Koreans and 120 million Japanese created a unified market, it would be an attractive market not only to the both countries but also to the world. I`d like to move forward with an economic cooperation program for the benefits of both countries.”

He also remarked that “the kidnapping issue is a difficulty in the process to normalize the North Korea-Japan relationship. NK has not acknowledged the case even thought there exist clear evidences. North Korea is a country very difficult to negotiate.”

In addition, Koizumi reiterated that “the normalization of the NK-Japan relationship cannot be discussed without dealing with the kidnapping issue. However, we will not close our door for the dialogue with the North in close cooperation with Korea and the U.S.”

With regard to the remark of U.S. President Bush, “axis of evil,` he commented, ”it seems like a strong expression against terrorism. I don`t think it as a hostile activity against the North. Japan also support the sunshine policy of Korea.”

Concerning the problem of worshiping in Yaskuni Temple, he avoided to respond, saying “I will make a decision at a right time.” In addition, responding to the question about the reflection of the researches of Korea-Japan Joint History Research Committee, he said “that it should deal with the differences in opinions from both sides but must not create a contradiction between the two.”

Young-Ee Lee yes202@donga.com