President Moon Jae-in holds a phone call with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte on May 30 to discuss cooperation measures between the two countries. (Cheong Wa Dae)
By Yoon Sojung
President Moon Jae-in had a phone call with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte on May 30. The two leaders discussed measures to boost bilateral cooperation.
While congratulating President Moon on his election victory, Prime Minister Rutte said, “As our two countries developed a comprehensive future-looking partnership, I hope we can develop such a partnership with you.”
President Moon congratulated him on the victory of the People’s Party for Freedom and Democracy, led by Prime Minister Rutte. Moon said, “The People’s Party for Freedom and Democracy’s victory is an encouraging outcome for all countries that support the integration of Europe, as it blocked extreme right-wing populism within the EU.”
“Koreans are thankful that the Netherlands as a country sent soldiers to Korea to fight for freedom and democracy during the Korean War,” said President Moon.
“Ever since those times, we have also been appreciative of your consistent support for Seoul’s policies toward North Korea and for the dismantlement of North Korean nuclear weapons,” said the president.
Mentioning the Netherlands’ role on the U.N. Security Council, where it will serve as a non-permanent member next year, President Moon said that, “You can play a bigger role in resolving the North Korean nuclear weapons issue, and continue to have strategic communications and cooperation with Seoul.”
President Moon added that he hopes to meet his Dutch counterpart at the upcoming G20 summit in July this year, and at the PyeongChang 2018 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games next year.
arete@korea.kr
