On January 22, 2025, Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a productive conversation with Republic of Korea (ROK) Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul. The call focused on reinforcing the U.S.-ROK alliance and exploring ways to deepen bilateral and trilateral cooperation to address regional challenges and promote stability in the Indo-Pacific.
The U.S.-ROK Alliance: A Pillar of Regional Security
During the call, Secretary Rubio reaffirmed that the U.S.-ROK Alliance remains a cornerstone of peace, security, and prosperity not only on the Korean Peninsula but throughout the Indo-Pacific region. Both leaders underscored the ongoing commitment of their nations to uphold regional stability in the face of evolving threats and opportunities.
Advancing Trilateral Cooperation: U.S., ROK, and Japan
A key aspect of their discussion centered on enhancing trilateral cooperation between the United States, the Republic of Korea, and Japan. Secretary Rubio and Foreign Minister Cho recognized the importance of strengthened collaboration among the three nations to address shared security concerns, including those posed by North Korea, and to advance regional economic and diplomatic initiatives.
Shared Commitment to Indo-Pacific Stability
Secretary Rubio and Foreign Minister Cho also highlighted their commitment to ensuring that the Indo-Pacific region remains free, open, and secure. They discussed coordinated efforts to counter malign influence in the region, support maritime security, and promote sustainable economic growth. Both leaders acknowledged that the trilateral partnership between the U.S., ROK, and Japan is critical for maintaining peace and advancing prosperity in the region.
Building on Strong Bilateral Ties
In conclusion, the call reinforced the mutual desire to continue building on the strong foundation of the U.S.-ROK relationship. Both Secretary Rubio and Foreign Minister Cho expressed confidence in their nations’ ability to work together to address emerging challenges, uphold shared values, and strengthen the stability of the Indo-Pacific region.