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Trump, Kim urged to use APEC summit as chance for talks: unification minister
U.S. President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un talk before a meeting at Panmunjeom in the Demilitarized Zone, June 30, 2019. AFP-Yonhap
By Lee Hae-rin
Unification Minister Chung Dong-young on Friday called on U.S. President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un to meet during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, describing it as a "heaven-sent opportunity" to end the Korean War, which has lasted for 72 years, and to advance peace in the region.
Speaking at a press briefing at Government Complex Seoul, Chung said the APEC gathering offers a realistic and timely setting for a breakthrough meeting.
"If the two leaders let this moment pass, organizing another summit later would be far more difficult given scheduling and negotiation constraints," he said.
Chung noted what he described as "signs of readiness" on both sides.
Unification Minister Chung Dong-young speaks during an assembly audit at the National Assembly in Seoul, Oct. 14. Yonhap
He noted the United Nations Command decision to suspend tours at the Joint Security Area and clean-up activities around Panmungak Pavilion — the main building on the North Korean side of Panmunjeom, also known as Phanmun Pavilion — including landscaping and maintenance work that had not been carried out for over a year.
The minister acknowledged logistical obstacles, but said they were secondary to the chance for peace talks. "Technical issues such as schedules or protocol are minor compared to the historic duty of ensuring stability on the Korean Peninsula," he said.
Chung also pointed to recent statements from both sides indicating mutual interest in reengagement. Since taking office, Trump has repeatedly expressed willingness to meet with Kim, while Kim indicated last month at the Supreme People's Assembly his openness to dialogue if Washington eases its stance on denuclearization.
"With President Trump marking one year since his reelection, now is the most practical and symbolic moment for both sides to act," Chung said.
His comments come amid growing speculation over potential behind-the-scenes efforts by Washington to reengage with Pyongyang. According to diplomatic sources, the White House sent a North Korea working group to Seoul this month to discuss plans for a potential meeting in the truce village of Panmunjeom. However, officials have played down the likelihood of an official summit.