On April 27, 2018, South Korean President Moon Jae-in and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un had a Summit at Panmunjom. At the Summit they signed the “Panmunjom Decleration”.1
Panmunjom Declaration stated that “there will be no more war on the Korean Peninsula and thus a new era of peace has begun”. The declaration has focused on bringing an end to the Cold War relic of longstanding division and confrontation in the Korean Peninsula.
To achieve the declaration objectives two leaders agreed to have frequent and candid discussions through regular meetings and direct telephone conversations. In this regard, President Moon Jae-in agreed to visit Pyongyang in the coming fall.
Country |
Comments |
North Korea |
Spokesperson- Foreign Ministry May 6, 20182 “The U.S. is deliberately provoking the DPRK at the time when the situation on the Korean peninsula is moving toward peace and reconciliation thanks to the historic north-south summit and the Panmunjom Declaration. This act cannot be construed otherwise than a dangerous attempt to ruin the hardly-won atmosphere of dialogue and bring the situation back to square one.” “It would not be conducive to addressing the issue if the U.S. miscalculates the peace-loving intention of the DPRK as a sign of "weakness" and continues to pursue its pressure and military threats against the latter.” Rodong Sinmun May 4, 20183 “Kim Jong Un, chairman of the Workers' Party of Korea and chairman of the State Affairs Commission of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Thursday met Wang Yi, state councilor and foreign minister of the People's Republic of China who is on a visit to the DPRK.” “At the meeting there were wide-ranging and in-depth exchanges of opinions on the matter of comprehensively carrying forward and developing in depth the unity and traditional friendly and cooperative relations between the two countries and the issues of mutual concern including the direction and prospect of the development of the situation on the Korean peninsula.” Kim Jong-un April 27, 20184 "I say this before President Moon and many journalists here that I will hold good discussions with President Moon with a frank, sincere and honest attitude and make a good outcome.” "I wish for it to be a chance for us to walk forward hand-in-hand while looking toward the future with a determination, instead of (summit) outcomes like those in the past that could not be implemented.” KCNA April 27, 20185 "In distrust of our great victory of the dual (military-economic development) policy line and following measures declared in the (ruling party) plenary meeting in April, the U.S. is buzzing about sanctions and pressure.” "As is known, our republic solemnly declared in the April plenary session that it will make brisk efforts to contribute to the common desire of human kind for a world without nuclear weapons.” "The U.S. needs to read carefully into the deep meaning of our decisive measures and think deeply about the face and prospect of a nation.” "The voice of the world is that (the U.S.) should not miss this chance and show actions of sincerity toward improving the security condition after (North) Korea took a unprecedented, historic decision.” |
USA |
Donald Trump- President May 4, 20186 “A good thing happening with North Korea. I think a lot of good things are going to be happening over the next short period of time. But I’ll see you over there. It’s going to be very exciting.” “It (US-DPRK Summit) will be very soon. I have the date. I have the location. It’s all agreed to.” “We have a chance of bringing — we have a chance — we’re doing very well with the hostages. We’re in constant contact with the leadership. We are in constant contact with North Korea. We’ve actually worked out a time and a place which will be announced shortly and very soon.” “No. No. And we haven’t been asked to (withdraw US force from South Korea). Now, I have to tell you, at some point into the future, I would like to save the money. You know, we have 32,000 troops there. But I think a lot of great things will happen. But troops are not on the table. Absolutely.” May 3, 20187 “We’re having very substantive talks with North Korea. And a lot of things have already happened with respect to the hostages. And I think you’re going to see very good things. As I said yesterday, stayed tuned. I think you’re going to be seeing very, very good things.” “And also, the trip is being scheduled. We now have a date and we have a location. We’ll be announcing it soon.” Statement-White House May 4, 20188 “Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs John R. Bolton met with National Security Office Director Chung Eui-yong of the Republic of Korea on May 4, 2018. Ambassador Chung provided Ambassador Bolton with a detailed readout of President Moon Jae-in’s April 27 Summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. They discussed President Trump’s upcoming meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and agreed to maintain frequent communication in the coming weeks. Ambassador Bolton and Ambassador Chung also noted that the close coordination between the White House and Blue House on their respective engagements with North Korea reflects the strength of the United States–Republic of Korea Alliance. The two ambassadors reaffirmed that there are no plans to change the United States–Republic of Korea bilateral defense posture in the Republic of Korea. Ambassador Bolton and Ambassador Chung started preparations for President Moon’s visit to the White House on May 22, 2018.” Donald Trump- President April 3, 20189 New York Times reported that President Trump has ordered the Pentagon to prepare options for drawing down American troops in South Korea, just weeks before he holds a landmark meeting with North Korea’s leader, Kim Jong-un. Sarah Sanders- Press Secretary, White House April 3, 201810 “We can’t confirm the validity of any of the reports currently out about their release (American detainees in North Korea). But we certainly would see this as a sign of goodwill if North Korea were to release the three Americans ahead of discussions between President Trump and Kim Jong-un.” May 3, 201811 “This department has not gotten any word on that (on withdrawal of U.S. military personnel from the Korean Peninsula). Our posture remains the same.” “The secretary (Jim Mattis) has said that it is (possibility of discussing about withdrawal of U.S. troops from South Korea) -- he's cautiously optimistic by what we've seen in the last week or so.” Spokesperson reffred to a comment made by Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis on April 27, 2018,12 “That's (U.S. troops need to stay stationed on the Korean Peninsula) part of the issues that we'll be discussing in the negotiations with our allies first and, of course, with North Korea. So, I think for right now, we just have to go along with the process, have the negotiations, and not try to make preconditions or presumptions about how it's going to go. We -- the diplomats are going to have to go to work now.” Heather Nauert- Spokesperson, State Department May 3, 201813 I can just say we can’t confirm the validity of those reports (American detainees in North Korea being moved out of a prison into a hotel) at this point. As you all know, the safety and the welfare of U.S. citizens abroad is our top issue. We want to see our American citizens brought home. We have been asking that and we’ve been calling on that – the North Korean Government for that for quite some time. We want them to come home as soon as possible. Mike Pompeo- Secretary of States May 2, 201814 Right now, we have an unprecedented opportunity to change the course of history on the Korean Peninsula. I underscore the word “opportunity.” We’re in the beginning stages of the work, and the outcome is certainly yet unknown. But one thing is certain: This administration will not repeat the mistakes of the past. Our eyes are wide open. It’s time to solve this once and for all. A bad deal is not an option. The American people are counting on us to get this right.” “We are committed to the permanent, verifiable, irreversible dismantling of North Korea’s weapons of mass destruction program, and to do so without delay.” Donald Trump- President April 30, 201815 “Numerous countries are being considered for the MEETING, but would Peace House/Freedom House, on the Border of North & South Korea, be a more Representative, Important and Lasting site than a third party country? Just asking!” April 30, 201816 "We're looking at various countries, including Singapore, and we are also talking about the possibility of the DMZ, Peace House, Freedom House, and there's something that I thought was intriguing." “There's something that I like about it because you're there. You're actually there, where, if things work out, there's a great celebration to be had on the site not, in a third party country." "The United States has never been closer to potentially having something happen with respect to the Korean Peninsula that can get rid of the nuclear weapons, can create so many good things, so many positive things and peace and safety for the world." April 29, 201817 “Headline: “Kim Prepared to Cede Nuclear Weapons if U.S. Pledges Not to Invade” - from the Failing New York Times. Also, will shut down Nuclear Test Site in May. “ April 28, 201818 “Just had a long and very good talk with President Moon of South Korea. Things are going very well, time and location of meeting with North Korea is being set. Also spoke to Prime Minister Abe of Japan to inform him of the ongoing negotiations.” April 27, 2018 “After a furious year of missile launches and Nuclear testing, a historic meeting between North and South Korea is now taking place. Good things are happening, but only time will tell!”19 “KOREAN WAR TO END! The United States, and all of its GREAT people, should be very proud of what is now taking place in Korea!"20 April 26, 201821 "We have a decision to be made. We have three or four dates and that includes locations. We have five locations and that will all be narrowed down." "So it could be that I walk out quickly -- with respect, but it could be. It could be that maybe the meeting doesn't even take place. Who knows? But I can tell you right now they want to meet." Mike Pompeo- Secretary of State April 29, 201822 “I am confident that Kim Jong-un is looking for more than a piece of paper, right? He’s not just staring at this North Korean deal and saying, “Oh goodness, there was this Iran agreement between President Obama and the Iranians, and I’m going to rely on the fact that the Americans stayed in that to have confidence that the Americans will do the right thing if I give up my nuclear weapons.” He’s going to look for aligning our interests, right, setting up – what we talked about is concrete, irreversible actions, assurances, that provided him with assurance that if we are able to be successful in changing this it will be lasting. So I don’t think Kim Jong-un is staring at the Iran deal and saying, “Oh goodness, if they get out of that deal, I won’t talk to the Americans anymore.” There are higher priorities that he is more concerned about than whether or not the Americans stay in the JCPOA.” “It’s (negotiation between US and North Korea) a live issue and we’re making progress, and we’ve got to make sure everybody’s in the same place. So I’m going to save that until it’s complete.” April 28, 201823 “I think it’s (Moon-Kim Summit) a big deal. It’s important. Every step along the way matters. The objective remains the same: complete, verifiable, irreversible denuclearization. That’s been the administration’s goal. President Trump has put economic pressure on the North Koreans, and it appears to have given us this opening, this real opportunity for something that would be transformative for the world if we can achieve it.” “I was on a mission (to Pyongyang). I had a mission to begin to lay the groundwork for President Trump’s meeting with Kim Jong-un. We wanted to make sure we understood that the North Koreans, Kim Jong-un, was prepared to talk about the things that matter most to give us a grounds, a basis, to have that meeting between the President and the chairman. I was very focused on that in that moment.” “I was aiming to achieve the goals the President set forward to me. It became clear that I was going to get the chance to meet with Kim Jong-un to discuss some of the details, but most importantly, to take a read on whether there was an opportunity here for our two countries to achieve this. And when I came back, I reported in to the President the discussion. It was a productive one. There remains a great deal of work to do, but we at least have an opportunity here to do something that’s incredibly important.” “We’ve got a long history in negotiating with North Korea. Repeatedly, they have taken actions, only to find that those promises proved false or unworthy, or they were uncapable of achieving them. My goal was to try and identify if there was a real opportunity there. I believe there is. Who knows how the ultimate discussions will go. There is a lot of work left to do, but I’m very hopeful that the conditions that have been set by President Trump give us this chance.” “We had a good conversation. We talked about serious matters. He was very well prepared; I hope I matched that. We had a extensive conversation on the hardest issues that face our two countries. I had a clear mission statement from President Trump. When I left there, Kim Jong-un understood the mission exactly as I’ve described it today, and he agreed that he was prepared to talk about that and to lay out a map that would help us achieve that objective. Only time will tell if we can get that done.” “This administration has its eyes wide open. We know the history; we know the risks. We’re going to be very different. We’re going to negotiate in a different way than has been done before. We’re going to require those steps. We use the word “irreversible” with great intention. We’re going to require those steps that demonstrate that denuclearization is going to be achieved. We’re not going to take promises. We’re not going to take words. We’re going to look for actions and deeds. And until such time, the President has made incredibly clear we will keep the pressure campaign in place until we achieve that. That’s different. And so in each case, both countries will have to do more than words. We’ll have to actually deliver an outcome that is the one that Kim Jong-un and I had the chance to talk about at the direction of the President.” “I’m looking for actions. And that’s what President Trump is asking for too. We have built a coalition. A diplomatic coalition has come together to put pressure on Kim Jong-un. President Trump and that pressure campaign are the reasons Kim Jong-un wants this meeting. It’s the objective of our administration to achieve the outcome. That’s what we’ll be looking for between the President and Kim Jong-un.” “Kim Jong-un is going to have to make a decision. He is going to have to make a big decision. Does he want the pressure campaign to continue? Does he want President Trump to continue to place him in the location that he finds himself today? Or is he looking for something big and bold and different, something that hasn’t happened before? I don’t know which way it will go. As the President has said, only time will tell. But we have a mission set. We have an obligation to engage in diplomatic discourse to try and find a peaceful solution so that Americans aren’t held at risk by Kim Jong-un and his nuclear arsenal. That’s the mission. That’s the goal. Only time will tell if we’re going to be able to achieve it.” “The administration has been very clear. We’ll see how the negotiations proceed, but we’re going to do it in a fundamentally different way than the previous efforts to persuade the North Koreans to get rid of their nuclear weapons program. We have our eyes wide open.” “The President has been very clear. We’re not going to allow Kim Jong-un to continue to threaten America. We’re not going to let him develop a program such that Americans are held at risk.” “The people of North Korea live in very difficult conditions. I believe that one of the reasons that Kim Jong-un is engaged in this conversation is that the pressure campaign that has been applied by President Trump and, indeed, by the world has put them in an even more tenuous, more difficult position. And so I am optimistic. We will work hard to see if we can’t find a solution so that the North Korean people can, in fact, live a better life.” April 27, 201824 “I want to congratulate the Republic of Korea and North Korea on the historic meeting, and the Korean people’s aspirations for peace and prosperity. Let there be no doubt: We would not be where we are today without President Trump’s maximum pressure campaign and the work that has been done all around the world to apply pressure to North Korea. We are encouraged by President Moon and Leader Kim Jong-un’s stated goal of complete denuclearization in the Panmunjom Declaration. We’re studying the declaration closely to understand whether Leader Kim made any new commitments as part of this agreement.” “Our objective remains unchanged. We’re committed to permanent, verifiable, irreversible dismantling of North Koreans’ weapons of mass destruction programs without delay. Until then, the global maximum pressure campaign will continue.” John Bolton- National Security Advisor April 28, 201825 "We have very much in mind the Libya model from 2003, 2004.” "I think it (Trump-Kim meeting) is going to happen.” "I think it's something that the president has thought a good deal about already." Statement- White House April 28, 201826 “President Donald J. Trump spoke today with President Moon Jae-in of the Republic of Korea to discuss the April 27 meeting between President Moon and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. President Trump thanked President Moon for the close coordination between the Republic of Korea and the United States in the lead-up to his meeting, and committed to remain in close contact in the coming weeks. The two leaders agreed that the unprecedented pressure applied by the United States, the Republic of Korea, and the international community through the global Maximum Pressure Campaign has led to this significant moment. President Trump and President Moon emphasized that a peaceful and prosperous future for North Korea is contingent upon its complete, verifiable, and irreversible denuclearization.” April 28, 201827 “President Donald J. Trump spoke today with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe of Japan. The leaders affirmed their commitment to achieving the permanent and verifiable denuclearization of North Korea and to continuing their close coordination in advance of talks between the United States and North Korea. They also reiterated the need for North Korea to abandon all weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missile programs. Finally, President Trump noted that he will urge North Korea to promptly resolve its abductions of Japanese citizens.” Mike Pence- Vice President April 27, 201828 “The fact that North Korea has come to the table without the United States making any concessions speaks to the strength of President Trump’s leadership and is a clear sign that the intense pressure of sanctions is working. The Korean peace agreement is a step toward denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, but it is just one step. Any talks, promises, and assurances from North Korea will be met with reservation, vigilance, and verification. Planning for the United States and North Korea Summit continues, but as we’ve said before – the pressure campaign will continue unabated.” Sarah Sanders- Press Secretary, White House April 26, 2018 "On the occasion of Republic of Korea President Moon Jae-in's historic meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, we wish the Korean people well.” |
South Korea |
Lee Nak-yoon – Prime Minister May 3, 201829 "Last week's inter-Korean summit laid a dramatic groundwork for denuclearization and permanent peace on the Korean Peninsula. Various agreements were also reached to broadly improve inter-Korean relations.” "Among the projects aimed at improving inter-Korean relations, we're going to start those not subject to U.N. sanctions on North Korea as soon as necessary preparations are complete. A project helping with North Korea's forestation is among them." Official-Government May 2, 201830 "It is nonsense to seek a nuclear-free Korean Peninsula without inspection and verification," a ranking government official told reporters. "The North's leader appears to adequately understand (that)." "Clinching a peace treaty is set as a goal to be pursued at the final stage of (North Korea's) denuclearization," the official said. "This year, we are aiming at declaring an end to the war." Cho Myoung-gyon - Unification Minister May 2, 201831 "A virtuous circle of developing inter-Korean ties and denuclearizing the Korean Peninsula has begun to move in earnest from now on.” "In that sense, the upcoming U.S-North Korea summit is very important." Moon Jae-in- President May 2, 201832 "U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) is a matter of the South Korea-U.S. alliance. It has nothing to do with signing a peace treaty." April 30, 201833 "I ask you to quickly start taking steps to have the declaration ratified as required under the law on the development of South-North Korea relations." "Still, it would not be desirable should the parliament's agreement become another source of political dispute." "The Panmunjom Declaration is a declaration of peace that told the entire world there will no longer be any war or nuclear threats on the Korean Peninsula. I am confident a new era of peace will open on the Korean Peninsula." "We have only taken the very first step. I ask you to take all necessary follow-up measures." "There may be items that can be started right away and some that might have to wait until conditions are met. I ask you to carefully identify those that can be started right away and quickly implement them, and for those that require necessary conditions, first begin preliminary studies and researches." Official- Office of the President May 2, 201834 "The government's position is that the U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) is playing the role of a mediator between major powers surrounding the country, such as China and Japan. It is the government's stance that the USFK is needed." The official’s statement was in response to a statement made by Prof. Moon Chung-in, special advisor to President Moon on foreign policy. Prof Moon said, “What will happen to U.S. forces in South Korea if a peace treaty is signed? It will be difficult to justify their continuing presence in South Korea after its adoption." Cho Myoung-gyon- Unification Minister May 1, 201835 "President Moon made the call to communicate on a permanent basis through the offices in Seoul and Pyongyang, and Chairman Kim said he hopes things can turn out in that way.” Kim Eui-kyeom- Spokesperson, Presidential Office April 29, 201836 South Korean President Moon Jae-in and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe had telephone talks April 29, 2018, to discuss the result of the summit between Moon and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. "President Moon offered to lay a bridge between North Korea and Japan.” Hong Joon-pyo- Leader, Liberty Korea Party (LKP- main opposition) April 27, 201837 "After all, the summit was nothing but a collaborative 'peace show' ... between Kim Jong-un and the Moon government.” The head of the conservative party lashed out at the Moon government for "not being able to speak a word about the North giving up its nukes" and called the declaration "a dictation" of Kim's words taken by Moon. Statement- Democratic Party (Ruling party) April 27, 201838 "(Summit was) a historic declaration that paves a new path toward peace and the easing of tension on the Korean Peninsula." "It has integrated detailed action plans for all key agenda items the two Koreas will have to carry out going forward." Kim Cheol-kun- Spokesman, Bareunmirae Party (minor opposition party) April 27, 201839 The Bareunmirae Party special note of the phrase "a complete denuclearization" of the Korean Peninsula being stated in the joint declaration. But it reiterated its stance of calling for more tangible efforts from North Korea in terms of carrying out the process of denuclearization. "What's most important is how we are going to put these into practice.” Moon Jae-in- President April 27, 201840 "The moment Chairman Kim crossed the Military Demarcation Line, Panmunjom became a symbol of peace, not a symbol of division.” "I wish to again express my respect to Chairman Kim Jong-un's decision that made today's discussions possible." "The world's eyes and ears are directed toward this place, Panmunjom. The expectations of the people of both the South and the North, as well as our overseas citizens, are also very high.” Kang Kyung-wha - Foreign Minister April 26, 201841 "If we can get -- put in writing the North Korean leader's commitment to denuclearization, that would be a very solid outcome.” "Clearly, credit goes to President Trump. He's been determined to come to grips with this from day one." "You need to create the reality of peace by removing hostilities.” "And then when there is sufficient confidence on both sides, then you are ready to sign a peace treaty."
Official- Joint Chief of Staff April 26, 201842 On April 26, 2018, South Korea and the United States have decided to suspend their annual combined military drills on the inter-Korean summit day. "The South Korean and U.S. military authorities have decided to conduct the first part of the 2018 KR through Thursday, jointly concluding that the intended goals of the exercise have been attained," "Most of the programs in the Foal Eagle exercise will finish today.” "You can say that the training virtually comes to an end today." |
China |
Statement- Foreign Ministry May 3, 201843 “On May 3, 2018 Chairman of the Workers’ Party of Korea (WPK) and Chairman of the State Affairs Commission of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) Kim Jong-un met at the headquarters of the WPK Central Committee with State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who was visiting the DPRK.” “Wang Yi stated that the DPRK observed the situation, made decisions resolutely, and guided positive changes in the Korean Peninsula situation. China supports and congratulates the leaders of the DPRK and the Republic of Korea on a successful meeting and on issuing the epoch-making Panmunjom Declaration. The meeting brought favorable opportunities for the political settlement of the Korean Peninsula issue. China supports an end to the state of war on the Korean Peninsula and the realization of the replacement of the armistice with a peace agreement, supports the DPRK in shifting its strategic focus to economic development and supports the DPRK in resolving its own legitimate security concerns while advancing the process of the denuclearization. China is willing to maintain communication and strengthen coordination with the DPRK in this regard.”
May 2, 201844 “On May 2, 2018 local time, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks with Member of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK) and Foreign Minister Ri Yong-ho of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) in Pyongyang.” “China fully supports the DPRK in finding a development path that is suitable to its national conditions, and focusing on carrying out economic construction. Speaking positively of the positive changes that have been taking place on the recent situation of the Korean Peninsula, Wang Yi said that China fully supports the DPRK's commitment to the goal of the denuclearization on the Korean Peninsula and the settlement of the DPRK's rightful and reasonable security concerns, and gives full support to the improvement of relations between the DPRK and the ROK. China hopes that the dialogue between the DPRK and the United States will be smoothly held and will achieve substantial progress. China is willing to strengthen communication with the DPRK and continue to play a due positive role in the political settlement process of the Korean Peninsula issue.” Hua Chunying- Spokesperson, Foreign Ministry May 2, 201845 State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi's visit to the DPRK is an important measure for the two sides to follow through on the consensus of the two state leaders and strengthen high-level exchange and strategic communication. The two sides will exchange in-depth views on China-DPRK relations, the situation on the Peninsula, etc. “As for what role China is going to play regarding the Peninsula issue, China has always stayed committed to realizing the denuclearization of the Peninsula, upholding its peace and stability and finding a solution that accommodates the legitimate security concern of various parties through dialogue and negotiation. In response to the crux of the Peninsula issue, China put forward the "suspension-for-suspension" proposal and the dual-track approach, namely, advancing the denuclearization and establishing the peace regime of the Korean Peninsula in a synchronized manner, with a view to realizing the lasting peace and stability of the Peninsula and this region. We are pleased to see that the situation on the Peninsula is moving forward in the right direction. We hope to work with various parties to consolidate and carry on the positive momentum on the Peninsula and continue to make positive efforts and play a constructive role for the final settlement of the Peninsula issue.” “There have been a series of positive changes in the situation on the Korean Peninsula at the moment, which is the result of the concerted efforts made by all relevant parties, thus worth cherishing and preserving all the more. All parties should speak and act in a way that is conducive to carrying on the current positive momentum, make greater diplomatic efforts to follow the dual-track approach, namely advancing the denuclearization and establishing the peace regime of the Korean Peninsula in a synchronized manner, with a view to realizing the lasting peace and stability there.”
Hua Chunying- Spokesperson, Foreign Ministry April 27, 201846 “We applaud the historic step taken by the two leaders (Kim and Moon), commend their political resolve and courage in doing this, and sincerely hope that their meeting will achieve positive outcomes.” “As a Chinese poem goes, "brotherhood will survive all vicissitudes, and a smile is all we need to dissolve old grudges". We hope that the historic summit at Panmunjom will be taken as an opportunity for all to embark on a new journey towards lasting peace and security on the Korean Peninsula.” Statement- Foreign Ministry April 27, 201847 “The leaders of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) and the Republic of Korea (ROK) held a successful meeting today. They reached important consensus and issued a joint declaration on improving inter-Korean relations, easing military tension on the Korean Peninsula and advancing the realization of denuclearization and long-term stability of the Peninsula. The positive outcomes of the summit are conducive to promoting reconciliation and cooperation between the two sides, upholding peace and stability on the Peninsula and advancing the political settlement process of the Peninsula issue. China welcomes it and extends its congratulations.” “The DPRK and the ROK belong to the same nation. China always supports the two sides in building up mutual trust and improving their relations through dialogue and consultation. This is in the interests of the two sides and the region, and in line with the shared aspiration of the international community. We hope and believe that the DPRK and the ROK will follow through on the consensus reached between the two leaders at this summit and continue to advance reconciliation and cooperation. We hope that the relevant parties will maintain the momentum for dialogue and work together to promote the denuclearization of the Peninsula and the political settlement process of the Peninsula issue. China stands ready to continue to play its positive role to this end. “
|
Russia |
Statement- Foreign Ministry April 27, 201848 “We welcome the successful holding of the meeting between the leaders of the two Korean states in Panmunjom on April 27. We regard it as a significant step by Seoul and Pyongyang to national reconciliation and the establishment of strong relationships of independent value.” “We have a positive view of the agreements enshrined in the Panmunjom Declaration on the results of the inter-Korean summit. We are ready to facilitate the establishment of practical cooperation between the DPRK and the Republic of Korea, including through the development of tripartite cooperation in the railway, electricity, gas and other industries.” “The meeting confirmed the commitment of the parties to the intensification of the political and diplomatic process seeking to resolve the entire complex of the Korean Peninsula issues, including the nuclear issue. In coordination with the countries involved, we will continue to make efforts towards this end along the lines of the Russia-China roadmap for the Korean settlement. We believe that this work must lead to resuming multilateral negotiations in the interest of shaping a system of peace and security in Northeast Asia.” Dmitry Peskov- Spokesperson, Kremlin April 27, 201849 "In this case we positively regard the meeting itself between the two Koreas’ leaders and the declared outcome of the negotiations.” "Today we can see that this direct dialogue took place and it has certain prospects.” "All other meetings that may lead to an easing of tensions on the peninsula and that may help progress towards a settlement can be welcomed just as well." |
Japan |
Shinzo Abe- Prime Minister May 4, 201850 On May 5, 2018, Japan’s Kyodo News reported that Japanese Prime Minister and Chinese President had their first ever telephone conversation. It reported that, they welcomed the commitment recently expressed by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and South Korean Moon Jae In toward a "complete" denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. They also agreed to cooperate toward an early resolution of the issue of Japanese nationals abducted by North Korea in the 1970s and 1980s. It was reported that during their conversation Prime Minister Abe said to President Xi that, "It's productive that I can directly exchange views with (you) at a time when the situation over North Korea is evolving greatly.” April 29, 201851 "President Moon talked about North Korea's abduction of Japanese people and the relations between Japan and North Korea during his summit with Chairman Kim Jong-un.” "I thank President Moon for his sincere effort." April 27, 201752 "I welcome and take them as positive moves.” "I want to praise the South Korean government's efforts that led to the latest summit." "Japan will compare the latest declaration to the previous ones and respond according to the analysis.” "Japan will solidly unite with South Korea and the United States as well as with China and Russia for the resolution of abduction, nuclear and missile issues." Yoshihide Suga- Chief Cabinet Secretary April 27, 201853 "I want to praise the South Korean government for its efforts that led to today's talks.” "I think there will be serious discussion between the two leaders in the summit meeting.” |
****
*The Author, Research Fellow, Indian Council of World Affairs, New Delhi.
Disclaimer: The views expressed are that of the Researcher and not of the Council.
1 "Full text of joint declaration issued at inter-Korean summit", The Yonhap News, April 27, 2018, english.yonhapnews.co.kr/news/2018/04/27/0200000000AEN20180427013900315.html
2 "DPRK FM Spokesman Flays U.S. Increased Pressure against DPRK", KCNA, May 6, 2018, kcna.kp/kcna.user.article.retrieveNewsViewInfoList.kcmsf#this
3 “Kim Jong Un Meets FM of China”, Rodong Sinmun, May 4, 2018, http://www.rodong.rep.kp/en/index.php?strPageID=SF01_02_01&newsID=2018-05-04-0001
4 "Leaders of two Koreas vow efforts to make 'good progress' at summit ", The Yonhap News, April 27, 2018, english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2018/04/27/0401000000AEN20180427004651315.html
5 "N. Korea urges U.S. to show sincerity over its denuclearization pledge: KCNA ", The Yonhap News, April 27, 2018, english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2018/04/27/0401000000AEN20180427013200315.html
6 "Remarks by President Trump Before Air Force One Departure", The White House, May 4, 2018, https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/remarks-president-trump-air-force-one-departure/; "Remarks by President Trump Aboard Air Force One en route Dallas", White House, May 4, 2018, , Texashttps://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/remarks-president-trump-aboard-air-force-one-en-route-dallas-texas/
7 "Remarks by President Trump Before Marine One Departure", White House, May 4, 2018, https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/remarks-president-trump-marine-one-departure-6/
8 "Readout of Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs John R. Bolton’s Meeting with National Security Office Director Chung Eui-yong of the Republic of Korea", The White House, May 4, 2018, https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/readout-assistant-president-national-security-affairs-john-r-boltons-meeting-national-security-office-director-chung-eui-yong-republic-korea/
9 "Trump Orders Pentagon to Consider Reducing U.S. Forces in South Korea", The New York Times, May 3, 2018, https://www.nytimes.com/2018/05/03/world/asia/trump-troops-south-korea.html?hp&action=click&pgtype=Homepage&clickSource=story-heading&module=first-column-region®ion=top-news&WT.nav=top-news
10 "Press Briefing by Press Secretary Sarah Sanders", The White House, April 3, 2018, https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/press-briefing-press-secretary-sarah-sanders-050318/
11 "Department Of Defense Press Briefing By Pentagon Chief Spokesperson Dana W. White In The Pentagon Briefing Room", Department of Defense, May 3, 2018, https://www.defense.gov/News/Transcripts/Transcript-View/Article/1511983/department-of-defense-press-briefing-by-pentagon-chief-spokesperson-dana-w-whit/
12 "Secretary Mattis Hosts an Honor Cordon Welcoming Poland Defense Minister Mariusz Blaszczak to the Pentagon", Department of Defense, April 27, 2018, https://www.defense.gov/News/Transcripts/Transcript-View/Article/1505983/secretary-mattis-hosts-an-honor-cordon-welcoming-poland-defense-minister-marius/
13 "Department Press Briefing", State Department, May 3, 2018, https://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/dpb/2018/05/281803.htm
14 "Remarks by President Trump at Swearing-In Ceremony of Mike Pompeo as Secretary of State", The White House, May 2, 2018, https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/remarks-president-trump-swearing-ceremony-mike-pompeo-secretary-state/
15 Donald Trump, Twitter, April 30, 2018, https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/990928644100034561
16 "Trump says he likes idea of meeting Kim on inter-Korean border", The Yonhap News, April 30, 2028, english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2018/04/30/0401000000AEN20180430012054315.html
17 Donald Trump, Twitter, April 29, 2018, https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/990787671281819648
18 Donald Trump, Twitter, April 28, 2018, https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/990225456233316354
19 Donald Trump, Twitter, April 27, 2018, https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/989816772713906177
20 Donald Trump, Twitter, April 27, 2018, https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/989820401596366849
21 "Trump says 3 or 4 dates being tossed for Kim summit", The Yonhap News, April 27, 2018english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2018/04/27/0401000000AEN20180427000200315.html
22 "Remarks to the Press", The State Department, April 29, 2018, https://www.state.gov/secretary/remarks/2018/281298.htm
23 "Interview With Jonathan Karl of ABC's This Week", State Department, April 28, 2018, https://www.state.gov/secretary/remarks/2018/281297.htm
24 "Remarks at a Press Availability", State Department, April 27, 2018, https://www.state.gov/secretary/remarks/2018/281275.htm
25 http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2018/04/29/0401000000AEN20180429003900315.html
26 "Readout of President Donald J. Trump’s Call with President Moon Jae-In of the Republic of Korea", The White House, April 28, 2018, https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/readout-president-donald-j-trumps-call-president-moon-jae-republic-korea-8/
27 "Trump’s Call with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe of Japan", White House, April 28, 2018, https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/readout-president-donald-j-trumps-call-prime-minister-shinzo-abe-japan-8/
28 "Statement from Vice President Mike Pence on the Inter-Korean Summit", White House, April 27, 2018, https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/statement-vice-president-mike-pence-inter-korean-summit/
29 "PM: S. Korea to seek forestation project in N. Korea", The Yonhap News, May 3, 2018, english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2018/05/03/0401000000AEN20180503009800315.html
30 "N.K. leader understands denuclearization should involve inspection: Seoul official ", The Yonhap News, May 2, 2018, english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2018/05/02/0401000000AEN20180502005251315.html
31 "N.K. leader understands denuclearization should involve inspection: Seoul official ", The Yonhap News, May 2, 2018, english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2018/05/02/0401000000AEN20180502005251315.html
32 ""President Moon dismisses possible withdrawal of USFK", The Yonhap News, May 2, 2018, english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2018/05/02/0401000000AEN20180502001751315.html
33 "Moon urges parliamentary ratification of Panmunjom Declaration", The Yonhap News, April 30, 2018, english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2018/04/30/0401000000AEN20180430007652315.html
34 ""President Moon dismisses possible withdrawal of USFK", The Yonhap News, May 2, 2018, english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2018/05/02/0401000000AEN20180502001751315.html
35 "N.K. leader can discuss Moon's proposal to install liaison offices in Seoul, Pyongyang: minister", The Yonhap News, May 1, 2018, english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2018/05/01/0401000000AEN20180501007351315.html
36 "Moon offers to broker N. Korea-Japan talks", The yonhap News, April 29, 2018, english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2018/04/29/0401000000AEN20180429002500315.html
37 "South Korean parties divided over summit result ", The Yonhap News, April 27, 2018, english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2018/04/27/0401000000AEN20180427014300315.html
38 Ibid
39 Ibid
40 "Leaders of two Koreas vow efforts to make 'good progress' at summit ", The Yonhap News, April 27, 2018, english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2018/04/27/0401000000AEN20180427004651315.html
41 "S. Korean FM hopes Kim commits to denuclearization in writing ", The Yonhap News, April 26, 2018, english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2018/04/27/0401000000AEN20180427000500315.html
42 "S. Korea, U.S. to stop military drills on summit day", The Yonhap News, April 26, 2018, english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2018/04/26/0401000000AEN20180426012000315.html
43 "DPRK Top Leader Kim Jong-un Meets with Wang Yi", MOFA, PRC, May 3, 2018, www.fmprc.gov.cn/mfa_eng/zxxx_662805/t1557115.shtml
44 "Wang Yi Holds Talks with Foreign Minister Ri Yong-ho of the DPRK", MOFA, PRC, May 2, 2018, www.fmprc.gov.cn/mfa_eng/zxxx_662805/t1556651.shtml
45 "Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hua Chunying's Regular Press Conference", MOFA, PRC, May 2, 2018, www.fmprc.gov.cn/mfa_eng/xwfw_665399/s2510_665401/2511_665403/t1556224.shtml
46 "Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hua Chunying's Regular Press Conference", MOFA, PRC, April 27, 2018, www.fmprc.gov.cn/mfa_eng/xwfw_665399/s2510_665401/2511_665403/t1555315.shtml
47 "Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lu Kang's Statement on the Inter-Korean Summit", MOFA, PRC, April 27, 2018, www.fmprc.gov.cn/mfa_eng/xwfw_665399/s2510_665401/2535_665405/t1555181.shtml
48 "Comment by the Information and Press Department on the inter-Korean summit ", MOFA, Russian Federation, April 27, 2018, www.mid.ru/en/foreign_policy/news/-/asset_publisher/cKNonkJE02Bw/content/id/3194904
49 “Kremlin comments on meeting between North, South Korean leaders”, TASS, April 27, 2018, http://tass.com/politics/1002100
50 "Japan, China agree to tackle N. Korea nuclear issue", The Kyodo News, May 4, 2018, https://english.kyodonews.net/news/2018/05/3480c5f94cba-urgent-abe-xi-agree-to-cooperate-in-addressing-n-korea-nuclear-issue.html
51 "Moon offers to broker N. Korea-Japan talks", The yonhap News, April 29, 2018, english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2018/04/29/0401000000AEN20180429002500315.html
52 english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2018/04/27/0401000000AEN20180427013400315.html
53 "Japan says it expects summit to feature serious discussion of N. Korean nukes, missiles ", The Yonhap News, April 27, 2018, english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2018/04/27/0401000000AEN20180427004700315.html