Thursday, May 31, 2012

South Korean Minister of Foreign Affairs to visit Los Angeles

By: Vickie J. Rubinson
Diplomatic Circles Report

Since 1950, the U.S. has viewed the Republic of Korea as central to its strategic and diplomatic goals in the Asian Pacific area. At the 2009 G-20 economic summit in London, newly elected President Barack Obama described the ROK as one of America's closest allies and greatest friends.

He wasn't exaggerating. From the moment the United States helped establish democracy and capitalism in the ROK  the diplomatic, economic and military ties have only grown and continue under the leadership of ROK President Lee Myung-bak.

The Republic of Korea and the U.S. agreed to a formal military alliance in 1953. They called it the relationship forged in blood and it remains in effect to this day. Roughly 29,000 US military personnel are currently stationed in Korea, helping to control the often contentious North.

So what does the future hold? His Excellency Kim Sung-Hwan, Republic of Korea's Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade will soon visit Los Angeles to discuss how what he has call the alliance of shared values can meet the challenge of uncertainty and insecurity in the Asia-Pacific area, including the often contentious relationship with the North Koreans.

Minister Kim is well qualified to address these issues. His previous positions include Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade (from March 2008) and Senior Secretary to the President for Foreign Affairs and National Security (from June 2008.) He has spent the last two years fine-tuning his country's foreign affairs strategy and North Korea policy. Don't miss this important event.

Friday, June 15th 7p.m. VIP Reception 7:30p.m. dinner
The InterContinental Hotel 2151 Avenue of the Stars
(213) 628-2333

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