SEOUL: Business leaders from South Korea and Japan have pledged to enhance bilateral cooperation and address shared challenges as both nations look forward to the 60th anniversary of their diplomatic relations in the upcoming year.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the commitment was made during the 31st Korea-Japan Business Council held in Seoul, which saw the participation of 17 South Korean and seven Japanese business leaders. The event was jointly hosted by the Federation of Korean Industries (FKI) and the Japan Business Federation, also known as Keidanren.
FKI Chairman Ryu Jin emphasized the importance of preparing for a new chapter in Korea-Japan relations, suggesting that business leaders from both countries should collaborate to address issues such as low birth rates, rural decline, and the climate crisis. He highlighted the need for both nations to lead the global economy together.
Keidanren Chairman Masakazu Tokura supported Ryu’s call for enhanced cooperation, stressing the significance of streng
thening Korea-Japan relations in light of the upcoming anniversary. The council concluded with a joint declaration from the business leaders, promising continued efforts towards future-oriented cooperation and shared prosperity.
The declaration also outlined areas for collaboration including participation in international forums like the OECD, APEC, G20, and G7, strengthening of supply chains, promotion of clean energy initiatives, establishment of global standards for emerging industries, and deepening of economic cooperation.