Lee reiterates importance of Asian diplomacy

SEOUL, Nov. 2 (Yonhap) -- President Lee Myung-bak on Monday vowed to step up his
efforts to upgrade diplomatic relations with Asian countries.
"Asia is rich in resources and home to about half of the world's population,"
said Lee in his biweekly radio address.
"In addition, the region accounts for 48 percent of Korea's trade. That's why I
have promoted 'New Asia Diplomacy.' In Southeast Asia, China and Japan have long
engaged in fierce competition to expand their influence and market share," said
the president.
Lee first unveiled his "New Asia Initiative" during his visit to Jakarta in
March. The initiative calls for Seoul to play a central role in representing the
interest of Asian nations in the international arena, conclude free trade
agreements with all Asian countries and establish a green growth belt in the
Asian-Pacific region.
Lee last month traveled to Vietnam and Cambodia for bilateral summit talks before
flying to Thailand to attend ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Plus
Three summit.
"Our efforts may be belated, but we'll patiently move to improve relations with
each of Asian countries in a win-win manner. Fortunately, we're on very good
terms with Indonesia and Vietnam, the key states of ASEAN," said Lee.
"I have repeatedly promised to represent the interests of Asia's developing
countries at next year's Group of 20 summit which Korea will host and chair," he
added.
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