By Aaron Miller-
The leaders of North and South Korea have agreed to work together to rid the peninsula of nuclear weapons following a historic summit between the pair. The aim is believed to be towards ”a nuclear-free Korean peninsula”
The announcement was made by Kim Jong-un and Moon Jae-in of South Korea after talks at the border.
The leaders agreed to push towards translating the armistice that ended the Korean War in 1953 into a peace treaty this year.
“There may be backlash, hardship, and frustration,” he said, before stating that: “A victory cannot be achieved without pain.”
Historically, the leaders also agreed to end “hostile activities” between the two nations. They agreed to change the demilitarised zone (DMZ) that divides the country into a “peace zone”, by ceasing propaganda broadcasts. They also agreed to reduce arms in the region, pending the easing of military tension. Most interesting among the set of agreements they made was the desire to push for three-way talks involving the U.S and China. An inclusion of joint participation in sporting events, including this year’s Asian Games was an added point thrown into the agreement table, but there was one agreement that stood out.
The agreement to organize a reunion of families left divided by the war was a critical agreement that shows the determination of the two leaders to move things forward.
China later praised the political determination and courage of both leaders. A statement from its foreign ministry said it hoped the momentum could be maintained.
The two countries have also “agreed to actively seek the support and co-operation of the international community” to reach this goal, the joint statement says.
China later praised the political determination and courage of both leaders. A statement from its foreign ministry said it hoped the momentum could be maintained.
US President Donald Trump also welcomed the news, tweeting that “good things are happening”.
