By Kim Hyun-bin
Former Indonesian President Megawati Soekarnoputri expressed an optimistic view of issues surrounding the two Koreas at the KOR-ASIA Forum 2018, co-hosted by The Korea Times and its sister paper, the Hankook Ilbo, Wednesday.
“Many are doubtful that there will be peace on the Korean Peninsula,” she said. “However, I am certain that peace on the Korean Peninsula will occur. My conviction is due to my encounter with the people of both countries.”
The two Koreas' agreement on the principle and ideal of peace and their leaders' appearance in front of the world resolved some of the prolonged disputes on the peninsula, she said.
However, she questioned the lack of progress being made in the political sector around the world, which she said is something that should not happen in the 21st century.
“We are currently in the 21st century; mankind is capable of exploring the oceans and the universe, and capable of breaking down even the smallest molecules,” she said. “However, are the accomplishments in the scientific and technical field paralleled with political skill?
“The ability to use political power as a tool to foster justice, humanity and peace; the ability to prioritize the well-being of mankind, this is the highest moral in politics ― the well-being of mankind.”
Even after peace on the Korean Peninsula, she urged all countries to work together to guard this peace, not only for Asia, but for the world, as each country depends on each other.
“No one country or nation can isolate themselves from other nations,” she said. “The matters and problems of the world are also the matters and problems of Asia. The future of Asia depends on international multidimensional problem solving.”
Former Mongolian President Punsalmaa Ochirbat also praised some of the achievements during the recent inter-Korean talks, especially the easing of military tension on the peninsula, and the development of the foundations for diplomacy.
The signing of the Panmunjeom Declaration, April 27, between the two Korean leaders was a positive chapter in history, not just for the two countries but for all Asian nations, he said.
Ochirbat emphasized the need to use the positive momentum to create even greater progress between the two countries and urged the need for a non-nuclear region to better move toward unification, as well as implementing regional programs to aid the process.
“The Korean Peninsula will become a non-nuclear region in Asia and peace will be made,” he said. “The favorable conditions for implementing the Northeast Asian Development Programs will be created and it will make a significant contribution to the overall peace and sustainable development of Asia as well as the whole world.”