The ninth China-Japan-Republic of Korea (ROK) Leaders' Summit is set to open in Seoul on May 26, marking the first trilateral meeting in over four years. This summit presents a pivotal opportunity for the three nations to collaborate towards enhancing regional peace and economic prosperity.
The Importance of Trilateral Cooperation
Initiated in 1999, the China-Japan-ROK cooperation has been a cornerstone of East Asian collaboration. Celebrating its 25th anniversary, this year's summit aims to reinforce political mutual trust, providing a platform for direct dialogue among the leaders. Such engagement is crucial for eliminating misunderstandings and laying a robust foundation for future cooperation.
Economically, China, Japan, and the ROK are major players in Asia with significant potential for collaboration. In the face of rising global trade protectionism and geopolitical volatility, strengthening regional economic integration becomes essential. The summit is expected to foster deeper cooperation in areas like trade, investment, science and technology, enabling the trio to effectively respond to external economic challenges.
From a security standpoint, the leaders are likely to discuss the nuclear issue on the Korean Peninsula—a shared concern. Through dialogue and consultation, the summit aims to advance the denuclearization process, thereby maintaining regional stability and peace.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the optimistic outlook, the trilateral relationship faces persistent challenges. Historical and territorial disputes continue to strain interactions among the three nations. Additionally, differing policy directions of the respective governments impact the stability of their relations.
Since taking office in 2022, the current ROK government has strengthened the U.S.-ROK alliance and improved relations with Japan. However, its approach towards the Chinese mainland, particularly its involvement in issues related to Taiwan and the South China Sea, has led to fluctuations in China-ROK relations. Nevertheless, with the ROK assuming the rotating presidency of China-Japan-ROK cooperation, there is a renewed willingness to restart high-level trilateral dialogue, aiming to balance bilateral and multilateral relations.
Moreover, the United States plays a significant role in influencing the cooperation among China, Japan, and the ROK. The U.S.-Japan and U.S.-ROK alliances are foundational to the U.S. presence in the Asia-Pacific region. Recently, efforts to strengthen these military alliances suggest a move towards establishing an \"East Asian version of NATO,\" which could have profound implications for regional dynamics.
Reference(s):
China-Japan-ROK cooperation helps promote regional peace & prosperity
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