Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu and Republic of Korea Foreign Minister Cho Hyun during the APEC Economic Leaders’ Week in Gyeongju. The meeting focused on strengthening trilateral cooperation among the United States, Japan, and South Korea to promote economic leadership in the Indo-Pacific region.
According to Principal Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Pigott, “Secretary of State Marco Rubio met yesterday with Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu and Republic of Korea Foreign Minister Cho Hyun on the sidelines of APEC Economic Leaders’ Week in Gyeongju to underscore that deeper trilateral cooperation advances trusted economic leadership in the Indo-Pacific, tangibly benefits our shared economic well-being, and advances safety, security, and prosperity in a free and open Indo-Pacific.”
The officials reaffirmed their commitment to previous agreements made at a trilateral meeting held on September 22. They also discussed progress on bilateral initiatives resulting from recent presidential visits to Japan and South Korea. These initiatives include efforts related to emerging technologies and improving resilience in critical minerals supply chains.
The group highlighted improvements in coordination among the three countries. They reiterated their shared goal for the complete denuclearization of North Korea (DPRK) and emphasized maintaining peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula through dialogue and diplomacy.
Additionally, Secretary Rubio and Foreign Minister Motegi congratulated Foreign Minister Cho and South Korea for successfully hosting this year’s APEC meetings. They also agreed to continue close coordination as China prepares to host APEC in 2026.