Lee Says, “I Can’t Do It Alone” to Park

Presidential frontrunner Lee Myung-bak and former Grand National Party leader Park Geun-hye met on September 7 in the National Assembly VIP cafeteria for the first time after the GNP primary. They resolved to cooperate and unite for a GNP victory in the presidential election.

The meeting was held 18 days after the primary through the arbitration of Kang Jae-sup, the incumbent GNP leader. Lee told Park, “If we unite, the GNP will come to power. Wouldn’t everything turn out fine if we sincerely cooperate?”

He also added, “I cannot do this alone. Your support will be great encouragement. I will call you often to discuss significant matters.”

Park replied by saying, “I hope you meet the trust of the people as the GNP candidate and assume the reins of the next government. And there is no doubt that we need to make a concerted effort for the power.”

taylor55@donga.com