Seoul and Tokyo Deliberate Military Logistics Pact
South Korea and Japan are discussing a prospective military-logistics support agreement that would allow mutual procurement of military supplies. This comes amid cautious sentiments in Seoul due to historical tensions stemming from Japan's colonial rule. Both nations aim for public understanding before proceeding.
South Korea and Japan have opened discussions on potentially forming a military-logistics support agreement, South Korea's Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back announced on Sunday. This agreement, which would enable the two nations to mutually procure logistics like fuel and food, was deliberated during a meeting in Singapore.
Following discussions with his Japanese counterpart Shinjiro Koizumi at the Shangri-La Dialogue, Ahn emphasized that such a politically sensitive agreement would require the understanding and agreement of citizens in both countries. "We should still proceed with caution," Ahn said, acknowledging the delicate nature of the talks.
Historical grievances related to Japan's colonial rule from 1910 to 1945 continue to influence South Korea's cautious stance. While efforts to obtain comments from Japan's Defense Ministry were unsuccessful, the issue remains a point of consideration for both Seoul and Tokyo.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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