Leaders of South Korea, China, and Japan came together for the first time in over four years to issue a joint declaration highlighting their cooperation in various areas. The declaration covers topics such as trade, climate change, and ageing societies. Some of the key agreements include the commitment to hold regular trilateral summits and ministerial meetings, with Japan hosting the next summit. The leaders also aim to increase people-to-people exchanges through culture, tourism, and education, with a target of 40 million exchanges by 2030. Additionally, the declaration emphasizes cooperation in addressing climate change.
The three parties acknowledged the necessity of collaborating in order to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions and carbon neutrality. They pledged to take concrete actions and support initiatives aimed at attaining the temperature goal outlined in the Paris Agreement.
In terms of conservation, they agreed to work together to reduce dust and sandstorms in East Asia. Additionally, they committed to promoting marine conservation and finalizing an internationally binding agreement on plastic pollution, while also addressing the issue of illegal fishing.
Regarding economic cooperation and trade, the countries expressed their support for accelerating negotiations for a trilateral Free Trade Agreement (FTA). They also reaffirmed their commitment to an open and rule-based multilateral trading system, with the World Trade Organization (WTO) serving as its foundation.
“We will continue to strive for a global level playing field, fostering an environment of free, fair, transparent, inclusive, and predictable trade and investment,” they stated.
In the area of health and aging, the countries came together to emphasize their dedication to maintaining open markets and enhancing collaboration in supply chain management.
In the realm of health and aging, the countries issued a joint statement focusing on preventing future pandemics. Furthermore, they agreed to address the challenges posed by declining birth rates and aging societies through exchanges between government officials and experts.
Regarding regional and international peace, the countries reiterated their shared interest and responsibility in upholding peace, stability, and prosperity in Northeast Asia and on the Korean peninsula. They restated their positions on the denuclearization of the Korean peninsula and the issue of abductions.