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Pompeo promises Abe to raise abductee issue with N. Korea

Pompeo promises Abe to raise abductee issue with N. Korea

Posted October. 08, 2018 08:19,   

Updated October. 08, 2018 08:19

한국어

Nihon Keizai Shimbun of Japan reported that U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo met with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe Saturday and said he would raise the issue of abductees on behalf of Japan when he meets with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Pyongyang.

Pompeo emphasized close cooperation by saying that the U.S and Japan need to be on the same page to resolve the issue of abduction, nuclear programs and missiles while talking with Abe at his official residence in Tokyo.

Abe said he appreciated Pompeo's visit before going to Pyongyang to adjust opinions on North Korea’s abduction, nuclear and missile issues. Pompeo said it was important to make sure the two countries were “fully in sync” before meeting with Kim.

After meeting with Abe, Pompeo told reporters that he would suggest the issue of Japanese abductees when he visits Pyongyang and meets with Kim. Reuters reported that Pompeo explained the stance of the U.S. on the negotiations with North Korea to Abe and they have exchanged opinions on North Korea’s demand to declare the end of war in exchange of denuclearization.

Pompeo also met with Japan’s Foreign Minister Taro Kono to exchange opinions on North Korea issues before departing to Pyongyang on Sunday morning for his fourth visit to North Korea.


Young-A Soh sya@donga.com