Official Visit of South Korean President to the U.S. By: Hope Wilkos, Writer/Blogger
Photos: George Whylie-Photographer; David Cassanova- Correspondent; Maxine Nolan-Videographer
Thursday, October 13th, marked a turning point for President Barack Obama as he warmly welcomed South Korean President, Lee Myung-bak, to the White House.
Amidst a steady rainfall, the two leaders shook hands while sheltered by their umbrellas and walked together towards the podium on the South Lawn. To begin the welcome ceremony, the National Anthem of the Republic of Korea was played and then followed by the United States National Anthem. Both Presidents had the opportunity to speak about the continued unification of the two nations and all that has been accomplished to get us to this point. The crowd of patriotic onlookers listened in attentive silence.
As the morning progressed into the afternoon, a joint press conference was held in the East Room of the White House at 12:20 P.M.
Just one day prior to this meeting, the Congress approved a free-trade agreement between the United States and South Korea. This is a significant accomplishment because not only will it create more jobs in the United States (more than 70,000) but it strengthens ties with South Korea and promotes a strong alliance with that country. It will expand mutual investments into both countries. It will increase American manufacturing exports, open Korea’s lucrative services market and level the playing field for our American auto workers. Just as we Americans buy Kias and Hyundias, perhaps now the South Koreans will buy Chevys and Fords. New doors will be opened and the possibilities could be endless.
During the conference, a question and answer period was opened up to press and media from all parts of the world. Topics covered were the situation with North Korea, the Iranian terror plot, the gas line pipeline project and President Obama’s initiative, the American Jobs Act.
Both Presidents hold a strong allegiance to the initiative to resume talks with North Korea on denuclearization.
The United States and South Korea are also working together on climate change and economic issues through the G20 and a nuclear summit scheduled for next year in March in Seoul.
Both countries embrace the responsibilities of leadership in the 21st century, promoting democracy and human rights. South Korea has overwhelmingly supported the reconstruction in Afghanistan as well as the hand-off of security back to the people of Afghanistan. South Korea also shares a common interest in the economic development of Libya along with vocational training for young people there; providing medical care and rebuilding and reinvesting in its infrastructure.
Lee was the first South Korean leader in 13 years to address a joint meeting of the Congress.
To cap off the day, there was a State Dinner attended by such honorable guests which included the Vice President, Deputy Secretary of State, U.S. Representatives, Press Secretary, mayors, Chiefs of Staff and more distinguished guests. Much preparation went into making sure the evening was a success. Singer Janelle Monae performed for the guests later in the evening. First Lady Michelle Obama wore a stunning one-shouldered deep purple gown designed by Doo-Ri Chung, a South Korean designer residing in the United States.
Pure Fame Media Inc/FR TV was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to attend the Thursday conferences and cover for our readers. We felt honored to have been a part of this high-profile day and feel that it is a promising start to optimistic progress on the part of both countries and both world leaders.
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