NAPSNet: Official Statements

This page provides links to official government statements pertaining to Northeast Asia security issues. The documents are listed in reverse chronological order, with the most recent document listed first.

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Official US Government Statements

2000

The Cox Committee Report on US Aid to North Korea

August 9, 2000: The complete text of the July 27 House Policy Committee’s perspective paper on US aid to North Korea. The committee, chaired by Representative Christopher Cox (Republican of California), reported that North Korea’s military capabilities have increased since the US began providing it with aid under the Agreed Framework with North Korea of 1994. The committee also said that making North Korea the largest recipient of US aid in the Asia was unnecessary when North Korea had already agreed not to possess or develop nuclear weapons when it entered into the “Joint Declaration on the Denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula” in 1992. .

Ambassador Bosworth’s Korean Press Foundation Speech

July 6, 2000: The prepared text of a speech given by Stephen Bosworth, US Ambassador to the ROK, in Seoul on June 28, to the Korea Press Foundation. Bosworth discussed the implications of the recent ROK-DPRK summit on US policy toward the DPRK. He argued that the ROK must get its own financial practices up to international standards to attract the investment necessary to help the DPRK rebuild its infrastructure.

General Thomas Schwartz’s Senate Testimony

March 9, 2000: The complete text of the testimony of General Thomas A. Schwartz, Commander, US Forces Korea, before the US Senate Armed Forces Committee. Schwartz discussed the DPRK threat, the US-ROK military alliance, and funding needs for US forces in the ROK.

Background Briefing by US Delegation in Tokyo

February 17, 2000: The complete official transcript of a briefing by senior US officials visiting Japan to members of the Japanese media at the US Embassy in Tokyo on February 16. The officials were speaking on “background” and thus were not identified. The briefing mostly focused on the upcoming Group of 8 (G8) Summit scheduled for July in Okinawa.

Thomas Foley on US-Japan Relations

January 18, 2000: The complete official transcript of a speech by US Ambassador to Japan Thomas S. Foley on January 18 to the Foreign Correspondents Club of Japan. Foley discussed the future challenges facing the US-Japan alliance, including the PRC and the DPRK.

1999

Burghardt on US-Taiwan Relations

December 21, 1999: The complete official transcript of a speech by Raymond F. Burghardt, director of the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT), given on December 17 remarks in Taiwan at the Asia-Pacific Security Forum Conference. Burghardt said that helping Taiwan to build and maintain its self-defense capability is an important part of the US commitment to security in the Asia-Pacific region. He emphasized, however, that this security rests on political, economic, and social factors as much as on military strength.

HIRC Testimony on DPRK Food Aid

October 29, 1999:Excerpts from the US House of Representatives International Relations Committee’s hearing on DPRK food aid. This report includes the opening statement by Committee Chairman Representative Benjamin Gilman (Republican-New York), and testimony by Representative Tony P. Hall (Democrat-Ohio), head of the Congressional Hunger Office. The hearings were held on October 27. Summaries of press reports on the hearing were included in the Daily Report for October 28.

William Perry October 12 Senate Testimony

October 12, 1999: The complete official transcript of remarks by former US Defense Secretary William Perry to the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on East Asian and Pacific Affairs on October 12. Perry presented his “Review of United States Policy Toward North Korea.”

Madeliene Albright-William Perry September 17 Press Briefing

September 20, 1999: The complete official transcript of a briefing on September 17 by US Secretary of State Madeleine Albright and former US Defense Secretary William Perry regarding recent developments in US-DPRK relations. News reports based on this press briefing were included in the Daily Report for September 20.

William Cohen July 28 Press Conference in Tokyo

July 30, 1999: The complete transcript of a press conference given by US Secretary of Defense William Cohen on July 28, following his meeting with Japanese Minister of State for Defense Hosei Norota. Cohen discussed the US-Japanese military alliance and the DPRK’s potential missile test. Summaries of news reports based on this press conference were included in the Daily Report for July 29.

US Government Investigation of PRC Embassy Bombing

July 7, 1999: The complete text of the June 17 oral presentation by US Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Thomas R. Pickering to the PRC on the US government’s investigation into the bombing of the PRC Embassy in Belgrade.

Perry Press Conference

June 2, 1999: The complete official transcript of a press conference held in Seoul on May 29 by US DPRK Policy Coordinator William Perry, following his return from the DPRK. Summaries of media reports based on the press conference were included in the Daily Report for June 1.

Background Briefing on Four Party Talks

April 28, 1999: Complete transcripts of the press briefing given by a senior US State Department official on April 27, regarding the latest round of the four-party Korean peace talks. The official was speaking on “background” and therefore was not identified. The US Defense Department transcript was provided by the United States Information Agency (USIA) on April 28. Summaries of media reports on this briefing were included in the US Section of the Daily Report for April 28.

Clinton Speech on US Policy to PRC

April 8, 1999: Complete transcript of President Bill Clinton’s speech on US foreign policy given at the Mayflower Hotel in Washington April 7 under the auspices of the United States Institute for Peace. The speech, which addressed US policy toward the PRC, was delivered just prior to the arrival in Washington of PRC Premier Zhu Rongji.

Berger on Non-Proliferation Goals

January 13, 1999: Complete transcript of the prepared text of the speech by US National Security Adviser Samuel R. Berger at the annual Carnegie International Non-Proliferation Conference in Washington on January 12. Berger outlined US policy for preventing and addressing issues regarding the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. A summary of news reports on this speech was included in the US section of the January 12 Daily Report.

1998

Background Briefing on Secretary Cohen’s Trip to Asia

October 30, 1998: Complete transcript of the press briefing given by a senior US Defense Department official on October 27, regarding Defense Secretary William Cohen’s upcoming trip to Asia. The official was speaking on “background” and therefore was not identified.

Background Briefing on Four-Party Talks

October 26, 1998: Complete transcript of the press briefing given by a senior US official on Saturday, October 24, regarding the just-completed third plenary session of the four-party Korean peace talks in Geneva. The official was speaking on “background” and therefore was not identified. The US State Department transcript was provided by the United States Information Agency (USIA) on October 26. Media reports and officials’ statements concerning the preliminary meetings, were included in the October 26 Daily Report.

Kartman on DPRK Policy

September 25, 1998: Complete transcript of testimony before the House International Relations Committee on September 25, by US Special Envoy Charles Kartman. Kartman said that the US is concerned about DPRK missile development, but argued that the a policy of engagement centered around the Agreed Framework offers the best hope for curbing DPRK threats.

US Officials on DPRK Policy

September 10, 1998: Complete transcripts of testimony before the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on East Asia and the Pacific September 10, by US Special Envoy Charles Kartman and Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense Kurt M. Campbell. The two officials discussed several aspects of US policy toward the DPRK, including the recently concluded US-DPRK talks in New York, the DPRK missile test, and the Agreed Framework.

State Dept. Daily Briefing, May 11, 1998 (Excerpts)

July 15, 1998: Extended excerpts from the press briefing given by US State Department spokesman Jamie Rubin on Wednesday, July 15. Rubin said that the US is confident that the DPRK’s nuclear program remains frozen, although there are still unanswered questions regarding its earlier nuclear activities. He also said that the US is confident that it will be able to make the promised deliveries of heavy oil. Media reports based on this briefing were summarized in the July 16 Daily Report.

Deming on US DPRK Policy

July 15, 1998: Complete transcript of remarks by US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Rust Deming at a July 14 hearing of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee regarding US policy toward the DPRK. Deming argued that the 1994 Agreed Framework with the DPRK remains central to efforts to promote peace and stability in Northeast Asia and to support regional and global nuclear nonproliferation.

Roth on US-PRC Relations

June 23, 1998: Complete transcript of the June 19 briefing by US Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Stanley Roth. Roth explained the reasons for US President Bill Clinton’s upcoming trip to the PRC and answered questions on various aspects of US-PRC relations.

Clinton on US-PRC Relations

June 11, 1998: Complete transcript of US President Bill Clinton’s remarks before the National Geographic Society on June 11. Clinton defended his policy of engagement of the PRC and his upcoming trip there. News summaries of this speech were included in the US Section of the June 11 Daily Report.

Defense Dept. Briefing, May 28, 1998 (Excerpts)

June 1, 1998: Extended excerpts from the press briefing given by US Defense Department spokesman Kenneth Bacon on Thursday, May 28, 1998. Bacon discussed various aspects of the nuclear tests by Pakistan and India. Media reports based on this briefing were summarized in the Daily Report for May 29.

President Clinton’s Remarks at G8 Summit Meeting

May 19, 1998: Complete transcript of US President Bill Clinton’s remarks to the press pool following the Group of Eight summit meeting in Birmingham, Great Britain. Clinton discussed possible Pakistani responses to recent Indian nuclear tests and Russian ratification of the START II nuclear reduction treaty.

State Dept. Daily Briefing, May 11, 1998 (Excerpts)

May 12, 1998: Extended excerpts from the press briefing given by US State Department spokesman Jamie Rubin on Monday, May 11. Rubin said that the US was “deeply disturbed” by India’s announcement that it had conducted three underground nuclear tests. Rubin said that US officials were studying the situation and the applicable laws before deciding what actions, if any, the US would take in response.

Slocumbe on Asian Security

May 11, 1998: Complete text of remarks before the House International Relations Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific by Walter Slocombe, US under secretary of defense for policy. Slocombe outlined a four-point US security strategy toward the Asia-Pacific region: maintain the vitality of bilateral alliances and friendships; maintain the U.S. forward presence in the region to promote stability; promoting a stable, sound, lasting relationship with the PRC; and take advantage of the opportunities offered by multilateral fora like the ASEAN Regional Forum and the Northeast Asian Cooperation Dialogue.

Habiger Interview

April 14, 1998: Extended excerpts from an interview given by General Eugene E. Habiger, Commander in Chief, US Strategic Command, to the Defense Writer’s Group in Washington on March 31, 1998. Habiger answered questions on US nuclear policy and the nuclear posture of Russia and China, as well as disarmament issues.

Holum Beijing Press Conference

March 31, 1998: Complete transcript of a press conference held in Beijing on March 26 by John D. Holum, acting Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Affairs, following his meetings with PRC leaders. During the visit, he and PRC arms control officials consulted on common efforts to promote peace and stability in Asia, to advance international arms control, and to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and missiles. In particular, he said, they exchanged views on recent developments concerning the Korean Peninsula, including common efforts to advance the Four Party Peace Talks process. A summary report of this meeting was included in the US Section of the March 26 Daily Report.

Background Briefing on Four-Party Talks

March 25, 1998: Complete transcript of the press briefing given by a senior US official on Saturday, March 21, regarding the just-completed four-party Korean peace talks in Geneva. The official was speaking on “background” and therefore was not identified. The US State Department transcript was provided by the United States Information Agency (USIA) on March 24. Media reports and officials’ statements concerning the preliminary meetings, were included in the March 23 Daily Report.

Background Briefing on Four-Party Talks

March 13, 1998: Complete transcript of the press briefing given by a senior US official on Wednesday March 11, regarding the upcoming four-party Korean peace talks in Geneva. The official was speaking on “background” and therefore was not identified. The US State Department transcript was provided by the United States Information Agency (USIA) on March 12. Citations to this briefing, as well as other media reports and officials’ statements concerning the preliminary meetings, were included in the March 12 Daily Report.

Pena Statement on Comprehensive Test Ban

February 23, 1998: Complete text of the prepared remarks by Secretary of Energy Federico Pena to the National Press Club urging the ratification of the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT). Pena said that, thanks to his department’s supercomputer-based “stockpile stewardship” program, the US can now analyze and maintain the safety, security and reliability of its nuclear deterrent without test-exploding any of the weapons.

Einhorn Statement on PRC Nuclear Cooperation

February 6, 1998: Complete transcript of the statement by Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Nonproliferation Robert Einhorn before the House Committee on International Relations on February 4. Einhorn testified before the committee on President Bill Clinton’s decision to submit to Congress the certifications and reports required by U.S. law to implement the 1985 U.S.-China Agreement for Peaceful Nuclear Cooperation.

Bell Briefing on Comprehensive Test Ban

February 3 1998: Complete transcript of a a press briefing at the White House on February 2, 1998, by Robert Bell, National Security Council (NSC) Senior Director for Defense Policy and Arms Control, on the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT), which the Clinton Administration will be submitting to the Senate. Bell argued that the treaty is in the US national security interests.

Bosworth Speech on US-ROK Relations

January 29, 1998: In a speech to the Korean-American Society and the American Chamber of Commerce on January 23, 1998, Stephen Bosworth, US Ambassador he Republic of Korea, discussed the present and future course of US-ROK relations, particularly in regards to the current economic crisis. He also discussed developments in relations with the DPRK, saying that the US would welcome direct ROK-DPRK dialogue.

Campbell Article on Asia-Pacific Security

January 8 1998: Complete transcript of an interview given by Kurt Campbell, deputy assistant secretary of defense for Asian and Pacific affairs. Campbell argued that the US must maintain “constant vigilance” and an “intensive dialogue” with Asia-Pacific nations because “the region as a whole is simultaneously stable and slightly insecure.” Highlighting “the tremendous progress” these nations have made in the past 30 years, Campbell assesses the current state of US relations with the PRC, Japan, the ROK, the countries of Southeast Asia, and Australia.

Kartman Article on Japan and Korea

January 7, 1998: Complete transcript of an article by Charles Kartman, principal deputy assistant secretary of state for East Asian and Pacific affairs, which argues that Japan and the ROK are “key partners” in the ongoing US effort to maintain peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region. The US-Japan security alliance, he writes, serves as a “stabilizing influence” in the region that “remains as vital as ever” in the post-Cold War era. And the historic Four-Party Talks offer “the best chance since…1953 to achieve a reduction of tensions and a lasting peace on the Korean Peninsula.”

1997

Roth Statements on Four Party Talks

December 11, 1997: In a press briefing given by Assistant Secretary of State Stanley Roth following the conclusion of the first plenary session of Four Party Peace Talks in Geneva, he outlined the general atmosphere and proceedings of the negotiations.

State Department on Korea

September 22, 1997: In a US State Department daily briefing held by Spokesman James Foley on September 22, 1997, the subject of the stalled four-party preparatory talks was broached. The main reasons cited for the postponement were the DPRK’s continued inflexibility in calling for a specific agenda, which would include negotiations for US troop withdrawals from the peninsula, and its demand that food aid be linked to the four-party talks.

Roth Statements on US-ROK Relations

September 15, 1997: On September 11, 1997, Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs held a press briefing in Seoul in which he related his belief that the ROK and the US had a stronger and closer relationship than at any time in history.

State Department Daily Press Briefing (Excerpts)

September 2, 1997: On August 27, State Department Spokesman Jamie Rubin explained that the DPRK defectors Chang Sung-kil and Chang Sung-ho were in the US under a “parole” or “protected status,” the first step under US law for granting formal asylum. Rubin also discusses the DPRK’s decision not to attend the missile proliferation talks, its relationship to the defection of Chang Sung-kil who is said to be knowledgeable about DPRK missile sales to the Middle East and the bearing of the defections on the prospects for the four-party peace talks preliminary meeting, set for the week of September 15.

State Department Daily Press Briefing (Complete Transcript)

September 2, 1997: On August 26, State Department Spokesman James Rubin confirmed in a press briefing that DPRK Ambassador to Egypt Chang Sung-kil had defected to the US. Rubin covers some of the technicalities of the nature of Chang’s status in the US, and maintains that his defection would not affect the missile talks or the path towards the four-party peace talks.

Briefing By Senior US Official On Four-Party Preparatory Talks (Complete Transcript)

August 8, 1997: On August 7, following the adjournment of the four-party Korean peace talks preliminary meetings in New York, a senior US official (who was speaking on “background” and therefore was not identified) conducted a press briefing in which he announced that the goal of the trilateral meetings, to persuade North Korea to participate in the four-party talks, was achieved. While the North Korean delegation did not make further meetings conditional on food aid or US diplomatic recognition, the setting of the agenda proved to be an area of discord among the parties, as North Korea pressed for a specific agenda while the other parties to the talks preferred a more general one to expedite entry into substantive talks.

Former US Officials Comment On DPRK Visit (Complete Unofficial Transcript)

July 24, 1997: Former US Ambassador to the ROK James Laney and former US Senator Sam Nunn held a news conference in Seoul upon the conclusion of their visit to the DPRK on July 22. They urged early and full participation by the DPRK in the four-party talks to bring about lasting peace and security on the peninsula, emphasizing that these talks were the best vehicle to address increased economic cooperation with the U.S., the ROK, and the world community. Ambassador Laney also stressed the importance of the full implementation of the Agreed Framework and the need for early resumption of high-level South-North dialogue, which the DPRK officials agreed with.

State Department Daily Press Briefing (Excerpts)

June 25, 1997: State Department Spokesman John Dinger discussed several topics related to North Korea in a regular press briefing on June 25. Among them were the upcoming talks between the US, DPRK, and ROK regarding the four-party peace talks proposal, and the visit by six DPRK officials to the Sandia National Laboratories Cooperative Monitoring Center in New Mexico on June 16. Mr. Dinger reiterated the State Department’s position that US food aid was strictly humanitarian in nature, and not tied to North Korean cooperation.

Nuclear Safeguards

May 16, 1997: This White House Fact Sheet dated May 16, 1997, outlines the new steps that the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and its member states took in tracking the location and use of nuclear materials worldwide. The arrangements identify new technologies and methods to strengthen safeguards and improve efficiency. The model protocol also requires states to disclose additional information on nuclear-related activities while giving the IAEA greater access to activities and locations to undercover clandestine nuclear programs.

Pentagon Spokesman’s Regular Tuesday Briefing (Excerpts)

April 30, 1997: On April 29, US Defense Department Spokesman Ken Bacon held a regular press briefing focusing on the possible impact that recent events such as the food shortage and defection of Huang Jang-yop will have on the stability of peace on the Korean peninsula. The Pentagon’s judgment was that neither have had a discernable impact on the political situation in the North, and that there is no evidence that the North’s military readiness has heightened, though about 50 percent of its army of 1.2 million is concentrated along the DMZ and could launch a potent military strike in a very short period of time.

State Department Daily Press Briefing (Excerpts)

April 16, 1997: In a regular US State Department press briefing on April 15, Spokesman Nicholas Burns announced that the United States government had decided to provide humanitarian assistance in the form of 50,000 metric tons of corn to help feed North Korean children under the age of six. Mr. Burns stressed that there was no linkage between the announcement on the decision to grant food aid and the meeting on the four-party peace talks which was to take place the next day.

State Department Daily Press Briefing (Excerpts)

April 15, 1997: US State Department Spokesman Nicholas Burns confirmed the receipt of an answer from the DPRK on the mutual proposal for four-way talks at a regular press briefing on April 14, emphasizing the delicate stage of the talks. At this briefing, the press engaged Mr. Burns in a discussion about whether a linkage had been established between economic aid and the DPRK’s behavior.

US Senators Comment On DPRK Visit (Complete Unofficial Transcript)

April 11, 1997: In a Washington news conference on April 11, five US senators who had recently returned from a trip to the DPRK spoke of their experiences with its leaders. The senators’ goals were to learn about Pyongyang’s priorities to further US understanding of North Korea and to improve relationships with North Korea based upon the four-party talks, which would lead to the easing of tensions on the peninsula. Topics that followed revolved mainly around food aid, the military situation on both sides of the DMZ, and, to a lesser extent, the light-water reactor and energy situation.

Briefing By State Department Official On US-DPRK Bilateral Meeting (Complete Transcript)

March 8, 1997: On March 7, a senior US State Department official held a press briefing following the US-DPRK bilateral meetings in New York. The official, who was unidentified, characterized the meetings as useful but not dramatic, with positive discussions on projects to search for American remains in North Korea and the establishment of liaison offices evidencing an improvement in relations. No details about the discussions were released.

Senior State Department Official On The US-ROK Joint Briefing For The DPRK (Complete Transcript)

March 6, 1997: On March 5, following the joint US-ROK briefing of the DPRK on the four-party peace talks proposal, an official (who was speaking on “background” and therefore was not identified) conducted a press briefing in which he expressed optimism about the direction of the meetings. In outlining the basics of the proposals, the official stated that there was not much new in them, as the delegations had always seen the four-party talks as a vehicle for attempt to embrace points of commonality in the various proposals.

1996

1995

House Joint Resolution relating to the DPRK’s obligations under the Agreed Framework

March 30, 1995: The resolution clarifies the obligations of the DPRK in regards to the Agreed Framework which include the dismantling of its graphite-moderated reactors and a commitment to a nuclear-free Korean Peninsula. It also spells out the role of the ROK, proposes additional ways to further US interests in the region, and places restrictions on aid to the DPRK, and restricts the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO).

North Korean Military and Nuclear Proliferation Threats

March 6, 1995: In regards to the Agreed Framework, the witnesses Robert Gallucci, US Ambassador at Large; Edward Warner, Assistant Secretary of State for Strategy and Requirements; and Thomas Hubbard, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs iterated to the Committee the approach taken to the negotiations with the DPRK. Also, they testified why they believe the Agreed Framework is in the best interests of the US. They conclude with a report on the status of efforts to implement the Framework to date.

Briefing by Joseph Nye, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Internal Security Affairs

February 27, 1995: Joseph Nye, in affirming the East Asia Strategy Report, maintains that the continued forward presence of 100,000 US troops in Asia is vital to the region’s security, making possible the continued economic prosperity. Because trade with Asia accounts for so much of the world’s economic activity, the prosperity of Asia is important to the US’s and the world’s security. The nurturing of multilateralism in East Asia should be conducted while the US’s existing bilateral relations are strengthened.

Gallucci Testimony before the House Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific

February 23, 1995: The Agreed Framework was vital, in that it neutralized the nuclear program of a traditionally hostile nation that could have been in a position to threaten the US and its allies if it had been able to produce nuclear weapons. The Agreement was able to come about because the US dealt from a position of military strength and resolve and its goals went beyond compliance with the Non-Proliferation Treaty. The US stands in an advantageous position, because the “burden of performance” falls on the DPRK.

Winston Lord Testimony before the House Subcommittee on Asia and Pacific Affairs

February 15, 1995: Assistant Secretary of State Winston Lord states why the Asia-Pacific region is a vital US interest, citing mainly economic reasons. He names three pillars of the Clinton Administration’s policy for the region: prosperity, security, and freedom. Lord also addresses the specific issues of some of the individual countries like Japan and the PRC and recounts progress that has been made in those areas.

Lake Speech at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace

January 30, 1995: In a speech before the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, Anthony Lake emphasizes the importance of arms control in the post-Cold War world to the security of the US. He cites previous achievements made by President Clinton, and outlines some of the goals of the administration for the year 1995. Some of them are the ratification of the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty and the implementation of the START I Treaty. Lake elaborates on the benefits of decreased defense spending.

1994

Testimony before the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee by Ivan Selin, Chairman, US Nuclear Regulatory Commission

January 19, 1995: In order to successfully maintain and operate the proposed light water reactors, the DPRK will have to achieve three elements of nuclear safety: one, technical excellence and operational safety; two, a sound economic climate over the long term; three, solid organization and management. To achieve this the DPRK must establish an effective regulatory commission, train and hire a cadre of safety personnel, and forge regional and international safety ties. A nuclear safety culture must be built that assures the soundest possible foundation for its nuclear power plant operation.

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Joint Statements

Albright-Lee Joint Press Conference

June 27, 2000: The complete transcript of a joint news conference given by US Secretary of State Madeleine K. Albright and ROK Foreign Minister Lee Joung-binn on June 23. News reports based on this conference were included in the Daily Report for June 26.

Albright-Lee Joint Press Conference

March 16, 2000: Official transcript of a press conference given by US Secretary of State Madeleine K. Albright and ROK Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Lee Joung-binn following their meeting in Washington. The two agreed that “quiet diplomacy” was the most suitable tactic in dealing with the problem of DPRK refugees located in countries such as the PRC and Russia, and that the issue of DPRK terrorism was still of great concern.

US-ROK-Japan Joint Press Conference

July 27, 1999: Official transcript of a press conference given by US Secretary of State Madeleine K. Albright, ROK Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Hong Soon-young, and Japanese Minister of Foreign Affairs Masahiko Koumura on July 27 in Singapore, at the annual Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Regional Forum. The three warned the DPRK that another long-range missile launch would be highly destabilizing and would have very serious consequences for efforts to build better relations.

Cohen-Chun Press Briefing

January 28, 1999: Official transcript of a press conference held in Seoul on January 15 by US Defense Secretary William Cohen and ROK Defense Minister Chun Yong-taek. The press conference followed the 30th annual US-ROK Security Consultative Meetings.

Cohen-Zhang Press Conference

September 17, 1998: Complete transcript of a press conference held in Washington on September 16 by US Defense Secretary William Cohen and PRC Defense Minister Zhang Wannian. The press conference followed meetings at which the two reached an agreement on cooperation in environmental security, and discussed numerous aspects of US-PRC military relations, including the recent DPRK rocket launch.

Cohen-Chun Press Briefing

July 14, 1998: Complete transcript of a press conference held in Washington on July 9 by US Defense Secretary William Cohen and ROK Defense Minister Chun Yong-taek. The press conference followed meetings at which the two discussed numerous aspects of US-ROK defense cooperation and policy towards the DPRK.

Clinton-Kim Press Conference

June 10, 1998: Complete transcript of a press conference held in Washington on June 9 by US President Bill Clinton and ROK President Kim Dae-jung. Summaries of news reports regarding this press conference, as well as the two leaders’ summit meeting were contained in the US and ROK sections of the June 10 Daily Report.

Albright-Park Press Conference

May 1, 1998: Complete transcript of the May 1 press conference in Seoul given by US Secretary of State Madeleine Albright and ROK Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Park Chung-Soo. Summaries of news reports regarding this press conference, as well as Albright’s meetings with Park and other ROK officials, were contained in the US Section of the May 1 Daily Report.

Albright-Obuchi Press Conference

April 30, 1998: Complete transcript of the April 28 press conference in Tokyo given by US Secretary of State Madeleine Albright and Japanese Foreign Minister Keizo Obuchi. The conference followed bilateral meetings at which the two concluded an agreement on expanding Japanese logistical support for US troops.

Cohen-Kim Briefing

December 12, 1997: Following the completion of the 29th US-ROK Security Consultative Meeting, a joint communique was issued in a news briefing by US Defense Secretary William Cohen and ROK Minister of National Defense Kim Dong-jin. The communique assessed the current international security situation and environment on and around the Korean Peninsula, stated that US forces continue to contribute to the deterrence of war, and reaffirmed the importance of inter-Korean dialogue.

US-ROK Security Consultative Meeeting

December 10, 1997: Following the completion of the 29th US-ROK Security Consultative Meeting, a joint communique was issued. The communique assessed the current international security situation and environment on and around the Korean Peninsula, stated that US forces continue to contribute to the deterrence of war, and reaffirmed the importance of inter-Korean dialogue.

Clinton-Jiang Joint Statement

October 30, 1997: A joint US-PRC statement issued following the summit meeting between US President Bill Clinton and PRC President Jiang Zemin stated that the two presidents were determined to build a strategic partnerhip. While they agreed on many issues, certain areas of friction were evident, such as the Taiwan issue were present.

US-Japan Guidelines Announcement

September 24, 1997: In a joint statement on September 23, 1997 the US-Japan Security Consultative Committee (SCC) reaffirmed the importance of the US-Japan security alliance in promoting peace in the region, and enunciated the key points of the new “Guidelines of US-Japan Defense Cooperation”. Its aim is to create a general policy framework from which a more effective US-Japan cooperation can be facilitated.

US-Japan Security Alliance

September 24, 1997: On September 23, 1997, a briefing was held by a Senior US official (who was briefing on background, and thus was not identified) on the US-Japan Defense Guidelines. According to the official, the new Defense Guidelines would clarify the role that Japan would play in assisting the US in a crisis as well as Japan’s level of involvement in UN Peace-Keeping Operations.

Meeting Between Albright and Qian

September 24, 1997: On September 23, 1997, Secretary of State Madeleine Albright and PRC Vice Premier and Foreign Minister Qian Qichen held a press briefing regarding their meetings which would concentrate on preparations for the impending summit meeting between Presidents Bill Clinton and Jiang Zemin in October. According to Albright, President Clinton wants to engage The PRC in a “multifaceted relationship” in order to make progress on issues spanning the entire diplomatic range.

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Other Government Statements

ROK-DPRK Summit Agreement

May 19, 2000: The translated transcript of the ROK-DPRK agreement on the summit meeting scheduled for June 12-14 in Pyongyang. The agreement was reached between ROK and DPRK negotiators at Panmunjom on May 18. This transcript was carried in the Korea Herald on May 19.

Lim Dong-won on Sunshine Policy

June 15, 1999: The complete translated text of an April 23 speech by Lim Dong-won, ROK presidential senior secretary for foreign affairs and national security who was named Minister of Unification on 24 May 1999. The speech is entitled, “How to End Cold War on the Korean Peninsula,” and was delivered at a working breakfast meeting hosted by the Korea Development Institute [KDI] in the Orchid Room of the Intercontinental Hotel in Samsong-dong, Seoul.

ROK MOU on DPRK Policy

March 25, 1999: The complete text of the ROK Ministry of National Unification’s Press Release, issued on March 24, 1999, on the implementation of the “sunshine policy” toward the DPRK.

DPRK Letter to ROK

February 8, 1999: Complete text of the DPRK’s recent letter to the ROK proposing high-level talks. The text was contained in a press release by the ROK Ministry of National Unification. News reports on the letter were contained in the Daily Report for February 3 and 4.

ROK President Kim Dae-jung Speech

August 17, 1998: Excerpts from an address delivered by ROK President Kim Dae-jung on the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Republic of Korea on August 15. Kim called for creating a permanent dialogue body with the DPRK, and for political and economic restructuring of the ROK as part of a “second nation-building.” Press reports based on this speech were summarized in the August 14 Daily Report.

Press-Release By The DPRK Delegation

April 24, 1997: In a press-release dated April 22 by the DPRK Permanent Mission to the United Nations, the delegation announced its acceptance of the four-party peace talks, and further called for “three plus one” talks to precede the four party talks in an effort to make the negotiations more productive.

DPRK’s Three-Point Proposal for Establishment of a New Peace Mechanism

April 16, 1996: In order to ease tension on the Korean Peninsula, the DPRK proposed, on February 22, 1996, an institutional device aimed at preventing armed conflict and war on the Korean Peninsula. First, a tentative agreement should be signed between the US and the DPRK that would replace the Armistice Agreement until a complete peace settlement is concluded. Second, a joint US-DPRK military body should be organized to replace the Military Armistice Commission for the supervision of the tentative agreement. Third, negotiations should be held at a concerned level to discuss the conclusion of the tentative agreement and organize the joint military body.

PRC White Paper on arms control and disarmament

November 16, 1995: The full text of a White Paper on arms control and disarmament in the PRC, issued by the Information Office of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China, as distributed by the Xinhua news agency, Beijing, in English.

Excerpts from an Interview with PRC Premier Li Peng

February 25, 1995: In an interview with Tong-a Ilbo, a ROK newspaper, Li Peng talks about the PRC’s relations with the ROK and expresses his hope for a peaceful and prosperous Northeast Asia. In addition, he comments on the leadership of PRC President Jiang Zemin. Finally, Li talks about nuclear weapons in Northeast Asia in light of the PRC’s recent testing of a nuclear weapon and how the PRC views the denuclearization off the Korean Peninsula.

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International Organizations Statements

Statement of the Chairman of the ASEAN Regional Forum

August 8, 2000: The following is an abridged version of the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Chairman’s Statement about the recent ARF meetings. The Seventh Meeting of the ARF was held in Bangkok on 27 July 2000, highlighted by the participation for the first time of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.

UNSC Resolution on South Asian Nuclear Tests

June 8, 1998: The complete text from the United States Information Agency of the resolution passed unanimously by the United Nation Security Council on June 6 condemning the recent nuclear tests by India and Pakistan. A news report on this resolution was summarized in the June 8 Daily Report.

Chairman’s Statement of the Second ASEAN Regional Forum

August 1, 1995: The participants of the Second ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) expressed their goal to preserve peace, stability, and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region and to use the ARF as a forum to reconcile differing views in the hopes of reducing security risks. The ARF will proceed in three stages: confidence building, development of preventive diplomacy, and elaboration of approaches to conflicts. The participants also agreed on a method of participation in the ARF, the organization of the ARF, and a method of implementation of ARF ideas and proposals.

Morris Rosen Testimony before the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee

January 19, 1995: The construction of light water reactors in the DPRK, as stipulated in the Agreed Framework, must address three safety questions. One, how will international safety standards be integrated into the design, construction, and operation of the plant? Two, how will a strong and competent regulatory mechanism be established? Three, how will the DPRK develop the technical capability to operate and maintain a modern nuclear facility? The signatory countries of the Framework along with the International Atomic Energy Agency will undoubtedly provide various forms of technical support and assistance to the DPRK.

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