On the Occasion of his visit to the United States, Minister of Foreign Affairs Cho Hyun held a series of meetings with senior White House officials on the afternoon of August 1 (local time). The Minister and the senior officials engaged in extensive discussions on ways to enhance cooperation in the technology sector—the third pillar of the ROK-U.S. alliance, in addition to security and the economy.

In a meeting with Andrew C. Baker, Deputy National Security Advisor and National Security Advisor to the Vice President, Minister Cho extended congratulations on the conclusion of the tariff negotiations. He expressed his appreciation for Advisor Baker’s proactive engagement and cooperation to advance the ROK-U.S. alliance. Minister Cho also requested that Advisor Baker, in his capacity, play a necessary role in ensuring that the upcoming summit serves as an opportunity to consolidate the outcomes of cooperation between the two countries. The two sides agreed to continue close communication and coordination on regional issues including issues related to the DPRK. Advisor Baker highly appreciated the ROK Government’s commitment and efforts to advance ROK-Japan relations and ROK-U.S.-Japan cooperation.

Minister Cho also met with Kevin Hassett, Director of the National Economic Council (NEC), marking the first meeting between the NEC Director and a Korean government official. The two sides especially took note of the conclusion of the ROK-U.S. tariff negotiations and agreed to further expand and develop bilateral economic cooperation on that basis. In particular, they shared the view that the two countries should strengthen cooperation with a focus on revitalizing the manufacturing industry and bolstering economic security. Minister Cho also requested U.S. cooperation for the successful hosting of the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting.

Minister Cho met with Michael Kratsios, Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), and reaffirmed the importance of science and technology cooperation for building a future-oriented, comprehensive strategic alliance. The two sides shared the view that ROK-U.S. cooperation, as key allies in building AI technology supply chains, is strategically important, and agreed to strengthen ROK-U.S. cooperation in areas, such as AI, quantum, nuclear energy and biotechnology, through discussions at all levels of government.

The exceptional series of meetings with senior White House officials demonstrate the U.S.’s high regard for the ROK-U.S. alliance and the conclusion of the tariff negotiations. The meetings laid a solid foundation for cooperation toward a successful ROK-U.S. summit.