In a significant display of unity, the heads of the United States, South Korea, and Japan issued a joint statement on Friday condemning what they termed as China's "dangerous and aggressive behavior," particularly its support for "unlawful maritime claims." The statement was delivered following a Camp David summit held in Maryland, where US President Joe Biden, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida convened to bolster cooperation in various domains.
The leaders reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to regional security and the promotion of Indo-Pacific engagement for mutual benefit. Expressing deep concern over China's actions in the South China Sea, they collectively voiced their opposition to any unilateral attempts aimed at altering the status quo in the Indo-Pacific waters. The militarization of reclaimed features, the provocative use of coast guard and maritime militia vessels, and coercive activities were specifically condemned.
Addressing pressing global challenges, the statement raised apprehensions about North Korea's illicit cyber activities and ballistic missile programs. The leaders denounced North Korea's increasing number of ballistic missile launches and reiterated their commitment to the complete denuclearization of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) in accordance with relevant UN Security Council resolutions.
Standing in solidarity with Ukraine, the trio emphasized their commitment to supporting Ukraine against Russia's unwarranted aggression, which they deemed a threat to the international order's stability.
Highlighting their determination to confront regional challenges, provocations, and threats, the leaders vowed to consult and coordinate their responses effectively. The trilateral defense cooperation's elevation in the Indo-Pacific region was a key aspect of their collaborative efforts. This includes launching annual multi-domain military exercises and intensifying information sharing, particularly concerning North Korea's missile launches and cyber activities. They also announced plans to enhance ballistic missile defense cooperation.
US President Biden underscored the unbreakable nature of the United States' commitment to its allies, expressing his dedication to fostering closer ties among the three nations. He announced the intention to strengthen trilateral defense cooperation to unprecedented levels through strategic initiatives.
South Korean President Yoon emphasized the importance of trilateral defense exercises in countering North Korea's nuclear and missile threats. He disclosed plans for regular meetings among the countries' top officials, including foreign ministers, defense ministers, and national security advisors, to facilitate coordinated trilateral cooperation.
Japanese Prime Minister Kishida highlighted the intention to foster multi-layered cooperation across various levels. The three nations collectively aim to forge a resilient partnership that advances their shared goals of security, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.
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