Ministry of National Defense Republic of Korea

Vice defense minister shares view of the Korean Peninsula's security situation with Swedish counterpart;

Swedish vice defense minister explains Sweden’s stance on foreign affairs and security;

Two sides discuss various issues, including high-level exchanges and military education

On June 15, Vice Minister of National Defense Shin Beom-cheol and his Swedish counterpart Jan-Olof Lind held ROK-Sweden vice defense ministerial talks at the main building of the ministry in Seoul to discuss potential defense exchanges and ways for cooperation.

During the meeting, Shin explained the recent security situation on the Korean Peninsula, and expressed his gratitude for Sweden’s continued support for building peace on the peninsula. Shin also called on Sweden to provide its continued support to the ROK government’s effort to build a lasting peace and safety on the peninsula through North Korea’s complete denuclearization.

In response, Lind said “Sweden has helped in efforts to build peace and security on the Korean Peninsula for decades. Sweden will continue to play a strong role.”

Lind also explained Sweden’s push to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) amid the changing European security order brought on by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and its current diplomatic and security policy.

In response, Shin said “the ROK government is also keeping tabs on the Ukraine crisis with great interest, and is providing humanitarian support and nonlethal military supplies.”

The two sides agreed to continue to strengthen defense cooperation in various areas, including high-level exchanges, military education and peacekeeping activities, sharing the view that the two countries must continue defense exchanges and cooperation based on their long history of amicable relations.

 By Chul-Hwan, Kim < droid001@dema.mil.kr >

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