Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary, Yoshimasa Hayashi, emphasized the importance of international cooperation in securing the return of victims of North Korea’s past abductions during a United Nations symposium. Hayashi vowed to continue efforts to arrange a summit between Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to address the long-standing abduction issue.
Addressing the symposium, Hayashi stressed the need for North Korea to collaborate with Japan for regional and international peace and stability. He urged for a swift resolution to the ongoing situation surrounding the abduction issue.
Despite North Korea’s recent refusal to engage in talks with Japan, reports surfaced of a clandestine meeting between the two countries in May. The event also saw participation from relatives of abducted Japanese nationals, highlighting the ongoing emotional toll of unresolved abductions.
As Japan continues to push for the return of remaining abductees, the symposium, co-hosted with the U.S., South Korea, Australia, and the EU, underscores the global commitment to addressing this humanitarian issue.
© KYODO