Dear editor,
I'm writing in regard to the ongoing negotiations on a free trade agreement (FTA) between South Korea and the European Union (EU).
On Aug. 28, chief negotiators from South Korea and the EU held talks in order to solve contending issues such as auto trade and the rules of origin.
Although I believe the FTA would be beneficial to both parties in economic and diplomatic terms, I cannot help worrying about the government's unilateral behavior.
Following the conclusion of the Korea-U.S. FTA, the Seoul government agreed to lift a ban on U.S. beef imports. The April 18 agreement touched off candlelight rallies against American beef, citing concerns about mad cow disease.
I think the government failed to reflect citizens' voices about the beef trade deal, causing their resentment. To avoid such public protests, the Lee Myung-bak administration should open its ears to the people and follow what they want.
Despite some blunders that could happen in the process of negotiations, the FTA is way too beneficial to give up for its risks. Considering the comparative advantages on the products, the efficiency of the market will increase significantly.
As an FTA is necessary in the globalized market economy, I hope the free trade negations with the EU turn out to be a great success. A Korea-EU FTA could be the motivating power for the Korean economy.
Bae In-hye
Student
Suwon Foreign Language High School
Suwon, Gyeonggi Province