Leaders of Japan, the Republic of Korea and the United States convened at Camp David, marking a historic new era of trilateral cooperation focused on shared strategic visions for the Indo-Pacific region. This historic summit comes at a time when global challenges such as Russia's aggression against Ukraine, nuclear provocations and the climate crisis necessitate a united front, according to a Center for a new American Security release.
"Today’s trilateral joint statement signals a new era of cooperation for Japan, the Republic of Korea and the United States — seemingly out of reach just a few short years ago," Hannah Kelley, research associate of the CNAS Technology and National Security Program, said in the release.
President Joe Biden recently praised President Yoon Suk Yeol and Prime Minister Fumio Kishida for transforming relations between Japan and South Korea (ROK), reinforcing ties with the U.S. and strengthening their trilateral relationship, according to an Aug. 18 White House news release. Commitments were made to expand cooperation in several areas such as economies, peace, security, democracy and human rights, and the leaders agreed to launch a new Trilateral Indo-Pacific Dialogue.
The meeting also included pledges to uphold regional security in the Indo-Pacific region, support for ASEAN unity and climate resilience, strong opposition to the PRC's actions in the South China Sea and a firm commitment to North Korea's complete denuclearization with the formation of a new working group, according to the White House release.
Furthermore, the U.S. confirmed its unbreakable extended deterrence commitments to Japan and South Korea, including annual military exercises. The leaders announced a trilateral collaboration on various technological fronts and expressed unwavering support for Ukraine, with ongoing assistance and sanctions against Russia, the White House release reported.
As the summit concluded at Camp David, the leaders departed with a sense of optimism, declaring a new chapter in their relationship that will be guided by shared visions and mutual interests, according to the White House.
"The trilateral U.S.-Japan-ROK summit at Camp David marks the first time that President Biden has invited foreign leaders to convene at this location since he took office, Rebecca Wittner, research consultant, CNAS Indo-Pacific Security Program, said in the release. "It bears extreme significance in terms of advancing the countries’ shared interests in ensuring peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific."
This historic summit signals a critical shift in the Indo-Pacific landscape, with Japan, South Korea and the U.S. affirming their common purpose and determination to face contemporary challenges, the CNAS release reported.
"Today, we declare openly that we are united in a common purpose to strengthen our shared region. Ours is a partnership built not just for our people but for the entire Indo-Pacific," the nations' joint statement said, according to CNAS.
