Foreign Minister Cho Hyun on Wednesday urged a visiting U.S. Senate delegation to swiftly implement bilateral security agreements and improve visa arrangements for Korean nationals.
"The Korea-U.S. alliance has been elevated to a 'future-oriented comprehensive strategic alliance' encompassing security, economy and advanced technology," Cho said. "This year, we look forward to maximizing our shared interests and prosperity through the faithful and prompt implementation of the joint fact sheet adopted at last year's Korea-U.S. summit."
Cho highlighted that the National Assembly's recent passage of the Special Act on Investment in the United States has laid the legal groundwork to carry out the $450 billion U.S. investment commitment. He also asked for congressional attention and support to accelerate implementation of security-related agreements covering the peaceful use of nuclear energy, nuclear-powered submarines and shipbuilding.
The Senate delegation reaffirmed unwavering congressional support for the importance of the Korea-U.S. alliance. The lawmakers said they would continue legislative efforts to expand future-oriented cooperation in critical minerals, supply chains and advanced technology, alongside the smooth implementation of the joint fact sheet.
Republican Senators Thom Tillis and John Curtis and Democratic Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Jacky Rosen attended the meeting.
Cho stressed that stable residency conditions for skilled Korean workers in the United States are essential for the smooth execution of strategic investments. He requested congressional attention to visa reform measures including the Korea Partners Act.
The delegation acknowledged that Korean investment in the United States is contributing to job creation and income growth for local communities, and pledged to develop cooperative measures at the congressional level.
Cho also outlined Seoul's efforts to ease inter-Korean military tensions, restore mutual trust and resume dialogue. The senators responded that the U.S. Congress would cooperate toward achieving peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and across the region.
Both sides shared the view that close communication and cooperation between Korea and the United States are necessary to achieve an early and peaceful resolution of the Middle East crisis and to secure stable energy supplies.