(Unofficial Translation)


Thank you, Honorable Chair.

It has been a very productive meeting, as we have discussed various cooperative measures to combat the COVID-19 crisis.

You have all emphasized the need for closer cooperation not just within ASEAN+3 but in the international community as a whole.

I find it very meaningful that we have once again reaffirmed our strong solidarity for collective response.

Plenty of useful ideas have been proposed today, including what has been referred to in the Summit Statement such as the establishment of an ‘AEAN+3 Reserve of Essential Medical Supplies’ and the ‘COVID-19 ASEAN Response Fund.’
I hope that these cooperative initiatives will lead to tangible outcomes. I also believe that it is essential for us to task ministerial-level meetings and Senior Officials’ Meetings with specific follow-up mandates for monitoring the implementation process.

I hope today’s consultations, as well as the commitments we have made will contribute to collective global efforts to end the COVID-19 crisis.

In our capacity as this year’s Coordinator of the Plus Three countries and the chair of the Korea-China-Japan Trilateral Summit, the Republic of Korea will play an active role in facilitating cooperation and strengthening solidarity in East Asia.

Moreover, Korea, China, and Japan will work closely together to actively share the valuable experience and lessons we have accumulated during this crisis with the ASEAN countries.

Honorable Chair, Excellencies,

I hope that each and every country will overcome COVID-19 as soon as possible, so that we can return to our normal lives.

If necessary, I hope we can have another virtual meeting to engage in further discussions. 

It’s been a pleasure meeting you today. Thank you.