Minister Lee, “Troop Dispatch Necessary for National Interests”

Deputy Prime Minister and Finance-Economy Minister Lee Hun-jai announced on Friday, “The troop dispatch to Iraq is a necessary measure.”

Minister Lee, at the regular briefing held that day at the Gwacheon Government Complex, said, “The murder of Kim Sun-il is a sorrow, but taking part (in the troop dispatch to Iraq) is necessary for the country’s long-term interest.”

He said, “Our country has the 11th largest economy in the world and is no longer a small country. We must assume responsibility and act accordingly,” asserting the justification for the dispatch.

Lee also explained, “The decision for the dispatch was not made solely based on the relationship between the U.S. and Korea. We are following the U.N.’s resolution to form an international force to reconstruct Iraq.”

He added, “Our country’s participation in recovering and reconstructing Iraq is essential for the country’s interest and will benefit us by improving future relationships with the Islamic countries.”

Jong sik Kong kong@donga.com