We do not want an open confrontation with the USA and President Donald Trump regarding customs duties – said Prime Minister Han Duk SU, the duties of the President of South Korea. In an interview with CNN, he also emphasized that Seul prefers negotiations and developing an agreement with Washington.
Han emphasized that South Korea “She would definitely like to negotiate” with the United States in the matter of “harmful” duties. The politician expressed the belief that both countries could reach an agreement before factories in the Asian state are closed.
South Korea “will not go” by China
In the case of South Korea The duties' rate – called “mutual” by Trump – which entered into force on Wednesday, is 25 percent.
Han, an experienced politician and economist, has been the head of state from December last year, after suspension of JUOL SUN President Jun. Asked by CNN about whether South Korea is considering cooperation with other countries such as Japan Whether ChinaIn order to oppose the American duty, Han replied that the government in Seoul “would not go this way.”
– I don't think such a fight significantly improves the situation. I think we should assess in a very cool way, which means this 25 percent for us. We should also negotiate with USA Han said.
HAN DUK SUPAP/EPA/AHN Young-Joon/Pool
China announces the fight “to the end”
As noted by CNN, this attitude contrasts with the recent China's reactions, covered with duties in a total amount of 104 percent. Beijing strongly condemned Washington's last decisions, calling them “error on error” and announcing the fight “to the end”.
In retaliation, China imposed on American imports of 10-15 percent. – for agricultural equipment, coal and oil in February, 10-15 percent for agri-food products in March, and then an additional 34 % The rate for all products in April.
Interview with Trump
Just a few hours after the interview, CNN Han conducted a telephone conversation with Trump, which the American president described as “great”.
In a communication in social media, Trump said that both leaders raised many issues, including “huge and unbalanced” South Korea surplus. from the USA, the purchase of American liquefied natural gas (LNG) and double -sided cooperation in the field of ship construction.
Hana's office informed that during a 28-minute conversation, the politician expressed hope for further development and strengthening of the alliance between Seul and Washington during Trump's term, emphasizing that military cooperation is the “foundation” of South Korea diplomacy and security.
Source of the main photo: PAP/EPA/Jeon Heon-Kyun