By Xu Aiying and Lee Jihae
President Moon Jae-in on Nov. 7 asked visiting representatives from member organizations of the Organization of Asian News Agencies (OANA) at Cheong Wa Dae for cooperation in inter-Korean peace efforts, saying that despite many obstacles, achieving peace on the Korean Peninsula is a goal that must be pursued.
On his efforts toward adopting the Seoul Declaration that supports the denuclearization of and a permanent peace on the peninsula, the chief executive said, "(The Seoul Declaration) speaks for the 4.3 billion people in the Asia-Pacific region who strongly want peace."
"I hope that more dialogue and action continue for peace on the Korean Peninsula."
The president also held an extensive dialogue with the OANA representatives on topics including the expansion of free trade and mutual growth and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region.
Liu Siyang, vice president of China's state-run Xinhua News Agency, asked what efforts are required for sustainable growth of the world economy despite the global slowdown, to which President Moon responded by saying the world must stand up to protectionism and uphold the values of free trade.
"The conclusion of the negotiations on the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) will play a huge role in restoring and spreading free trade. We will do our best so that Korea can put its final signature on it next year," he said.
Nguyen Duc Loi, general director of the Vietnam News Agency, said, "I was deeply moved by the steadfast improvements in Korea-ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) relations."
President Moon said, "Korea and Vietnam have similarities in historical experience and national character. We hope Vietnam will become a partner that jointly leads the mutual prosperity of Korea and ASEAN."
"The Korea-ASEAN special summit will elevate Korea-ASEAN relations one step further. This will be a stepping stone for 'One Asia.'"
Founded in 1961, OANA is an association of 43 news agencies from 35 Asia-Pacific nations that are members of UNESCO. It is the largest regional group of its kind in the world.
***