Regional powers keep close tabs on third inter-Korean summit of 2018

2018-09-17 1

Regional powers will also be keeping close tabs on the summit's outcome... as denuclearization talks have ground to a halt in recent months.
For the experts' take on different viewpoints,... here's our Cha Sang-mi.
Amid rising expectations for the 2018 Inter-Korean Summit in Pyeongyang, regional powers are keeping close tabs on what will be discussed and agreed between the two Korean leaders.
Arirang News interviewed experts from four neighboring countries to hear their opinions on the third inter-Korean summit of this year.

"I think now, in terms of U.S. foreign policy, specifically towards North Korea, I think there is more of a sentiment to try to work on a compromise. American people are very tired of war, they are very tired of seeing Americans come back in body bags, or having mental health issues because they've seen war."

Citing the multiple fronts the U.S. is fighting on right now, including Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria, Harry Kazianis says that the American public seems more optimistic about Kim Jong-un's intention to denuclearize.
A Chinese expert says that Beijing also wants to see a better inter-Korean relations.

"That will help reduce the chance of another millitary conflict of the Korean Peninsula. And also, China has a long term interest in regional economic integration in Northeast Asia. If South Korea is able to forge a closer economic relationship with North Korea that will also make it easier for China to enhance its economic and trading cooperation with North Korea."

A Russian expert reiterated the importance of resolving the issue with dialogue:

"Russia has always supported the strategy of sorting out and deciding all the problems on the Korean Peninsula by dialogue and diplomatic ways. We are very much relieved that after the new government, the Moon Jae-in government is very positive of relations with North Korea and also with Russian to Russia.

As for Japan, which has been taking a hardline stance on the North due to issues such as the abduction of its citizens, the Pyeongyang summit could serve as a catalyst for Pyeongyang and Tokyo to normalize their ties too.

"If South Korea and North Korea could promote a dialogue of denuclearization issue of the U.S. and North Korea, that has a positive impact on Japan. Because that helps Japan and North Korea engage in dialogue regarding normalization issues."

The four neighboring countries may all have different issues with the regime, but they share a goal -- establishing a lasting peace and a denuclearized Korean Peninsula so that no one has to fear another war.
Cha Sang-mi, Arirang News.