Seoul, 30 October 2021 (TDI): The South Korean President, Moon Jae-in attended the 16th East Asia Summit (EAS), virtually. The Summit was via video link because of the Covid-19 limitations.
South Korean President addressed the Summit
Whilst addressing the Summit, the South Korean President touched upon various issues. He appreciated the ruler of Brunei, Sultan Bolkiah for hosting and organizing the Summit. The Covid-19 pandemic has limited free movement and confined the normal way of living. However, with technology and increased digitization, it was possible to organize the Summit in such difficult times.
Transnational Cooperation
Moon Jae-in underscored that transnational cooperation is the only way forward to address global challenges; COVID-19, climate change, and attaining sustainable development. East Asia represents 54 percent of the world’s population and 62 percent of its GDP. Cohesion in the region will significantly contribute to international harmony and cooperation to tackle global challenges. The East Asia Summit is such a forum that can ensure unity for a better future.
Covid-19 and Vaccination
Highlighting the issues related to vaccination in East Asia he said that vaccination rates vary greatly across countries. Nevertheless, Korea will keep on contributing in COVAX. Besides, as a worldwide vaccine hub, it will ensure equitable and timely vaccine distributions.
Social Stability
In addition, the Korean President stressed the significance of social stability and economic vitality. For that, Korea has adopted the Leaders’ Statement on Mental Health Cooperation and the Leaders’ Statement on Economic Growth through the Tourism Industry.
Global Supply Chains
He expressed that the global supply chains must be reinstated to assure an even pace of recovery among nations. Open markets and a re-energized WTO multilateral trading system for cooperation should be adopted. Korea will enthusiastically take part in the joint efforts to rebuild supply chains; based on the ASEAN-Korea FTA and RCEP.
Climate Change
About Climate Change he said that Korea has participated as one of the co-sponsors of the Leaders’ Statement on Sustainable Recovery and will adopt it. Climate Change is a real threat and can only be tackled with joint efforts.
Green New Deal
Furthermore, Korea, through the Green New Deal, aims to adopt a low-carbon economy. The country is determined to increase climate-related initiatives to set up the Green New Deal Trust Fund. Consequently, it will accelerate the region’s carbon neutrality and energy transition.
Korean Peninsula
Moon Jae-in reiterated that peace on the Korean Peninsula is imperative to acquire peace and prosperity in the East Asian region. Ergo, Korea has made efforts to denuclearize the region including three inter-Korean summits and the historic U.S.-North Korea summits.
Myanmar Issue
On the issue of Myanmar, he said that the restoration of democracy in the country is the only viable solution. Korea aided Myanmar in its fight against Covid-19 by providing humanitarian assistance. Also, it will actively support the ASEAN Chair’s Special Envoy on Myanmar.
Moon Jae-in, whilst concluding his speech stressed the need for global interconnectivity. East Asia can achieve peace and joint prosperity only by unity and solidarity.
