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North Korean leader Kim Jong Un; Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida addresses the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly, Tuesday, September 19, 2023, at UN headquarters in New York City, USA | Image: AP
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has delivered a bold message at the United Nations General Assembly, reaffirming Japan’s willingness to engage in high-level talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. This significant offer comes as Tokyo seeks a diplomatic path to address rising tensions surrounding Pyongyang’s nuclear weapons programs.
In his address from the UN rostrum, Kishida declared Japan’s commitment to resolving all issues with North Korea, including the sensitive matter of past abductions of Japanese civilians for espionage training. He stated, “From the perspective of opening up a new era together, I would like to convey my determination to meet with President Kim Jong Un face to face at any time without any conditions.” Kishida expressed his eagerness to supervise high-level talks that would lead to an early summit meeting.
Japan’s pursuit of diplomatic engagement with North Korea is not new. In 2002, former Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi embarked on a landmark visit to Pyongyang, where he met with Kim Jong Un’s father, Kim Jong Il. This visit marked the initial steps toward normalising relations between Japan and North Korea, with Tokyo offering economic assistance as part of the diplomatic process. The trip resulted in the return of five Japanese nationals and subsequent follow-up visits by Koizumi.
However, the diplomatic progress eventually encountered obstacles, including Tokyo’s concerns over North Korea’s transparency regarding the abduction victims. Subsequently, North Korea conducted a nuclear test in 2006, intensifying tensions and ushering in a more confrontational phase.
Tensions have continued to escalate in recent months as North Korea has conducted a series of missile tests. Despite offers from the United States, under President Joe Biden, for talks with North Korea, Pyongyang has exhibited limited interest. The diplomacy initiated by Biden’s predecessor, Donald Trump, included three meetings with Kim Jong Un and expressions of admiration for the North Korean leader.
While these historic summits between the US and North Korea led to a reduction in tension, they did not result in a long-term agreement. Technically, the Korean War, which went through 1950-53, has never officially ended.