U.S. - Japan - Republic of Korea Trilateral Meeting

Media Note

Office of the Spokesperson

Washington, DC

January 17, 2012

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Today the United States, Japan, and the Republic of Korea held a trilateral dialogue to exchange views on a wide range of regional and global issues of mutual interest, including recent developments in Burma, multilateral coordination, and the situation on the Korean Peninsula.

These discussions reflect the close cooperation between the United States, Japan, and the Republic of Korea, as well as our common values and interests across the Asia-Pacific and the globe.

In the meetings, we reaffirmed our commitment to the September 19, 2005 Joint Statement of the Six-Party Talks, including its core goal of the verifiable denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula in a peaceful manner.

We agreed on the importance of improvement in inter-Korean relations and resolution of the abductions issue.

We also agreed that a path is open to North Korea towards the resumption of talks and improved relations with the United States, Japan, and Republic of Korea through dialogue.

Building on previous trilateral meetings, the discussions were productive and will help deepen our cooperation as we move forward on important initiatives in 2012 and beyond.

Secretary Clinton looks forward to meeting with her counterparts for a trilateral at the ministerial level later this year at a time of mutual convenience.

We will also maintain our close bilateral and trilateral coordination throughout the year. We also look forward to engaging with China, Russia, and other key partners on these important regional issues.

ENDS