By Kim Young Shin 

President Moon Jae-in held a meeting with Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi, who was in Korea as a special envoy from Indonesian President Joko Widodo (Jokowi), at Cheong Wa Dae on July 27. Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi delivered a letter from the Indonesian president inviting President Moon to the 2018 Jakarta-Palembang Asian Games, to be held from Aug. 18 to Sept. 2. 

President Moon thanked the Indonesian government for the constant support of Korea’s policies for complete denuclearization and peace on the Korean Peninsula. He praised Jokowi for his efforts at improving the relationship between the two Koreas, too, such as inviting the leaders of South and North Korea together to the Asian Games, and helping the joint entrance of the two teams in the Opening Ceremony, and forming a joint team for some events.

“I hope that all Asian nations, not just South and North Korea, take the Asian Games as an opportunity to boost diplomatic relations and to cooperate with each other,” said President Moon. “I hope for the success of the Asian Games.” 

“Congratulations on making a joint team,” said the Indonesian foreign minister. “The Indonesian president and the people of Indonesia eagerly hope that President Moon attends the Asian Games.” 

According to Cheong Wa Dae spokesperson Kim Eui-kyeom, President Moon will review his schedule and check to see if he can attend the Asian Games. 

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