US stresses alliance with South Korea against 'unprecedented challenges' from North, China

Austin made the remark here at the start of his first in-person talks with South Korean Defence Minister Suh Wook, calling the alliance a "linchpin" for peace, security and prosperity for Northeast Asia, and their military readiness a "top priority."

"I am here today to reaffirm the United States' commitment to the defence of the Republic of Korea," Austin said. "You and I can both agree that military readiness is a top priority, and that our combined readiness must ensure that we are ready to fight tonight, if needed."

The remarks came a day after Kim Yo-jong, the powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, slammed an ongoing combined exercise between Seoul and Washington, warning the US not to "cause a stink" if it wants to sleep in peace for the next four years.

North Korea has been trying to beef up its nuclear and missile capabilities with the aim of developing a nuclear-tipped inter-continental ballistic missile capable of striking the mainland US. The country has recently shown signs of operations at some of its nuclear facilities.

"Suh and Austin reaffirmed their commitment to the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and the establishment of a permanent peace," a statement by the South Korean defence ministry read.

Suh in his remarks said that it is of "utmost importance" to maintain the combined defence posture and the formidable deterrent against North Korea, and vowed to "further strengthen our bond as a military alliance."

A Pentagon readout also said the two sides also shared the importance of trilateral security cooperation involving Japan "to respond to the North's nuclear and missile threats and to form a cooperative security structure in Northeast Asia."

Referring to a recently concluded deal on the sharing of the cost for stationing US troops in South Korea, Austin said it reflects President Joe Biden's "commitment to reinvigorating and modernising" its alliances around the world.

Later in the day Secretary of State Antony Blinken had his first face-to-face talks with Foreign Minister Chung Eui-yong, reaffirmed Washington's commitment to the alliance with Seoul, casting it as "unwavering," "ironclad" and "rooted in friendship and mutual trust and shared values."

"This alliance between us is a linchpin for peace security and prosperity not just for our two nations but for the Indo-Pacific region and indeed the world," he said.
He stressed that the US will continue to work together with South Korea, Japan and other allies for the denuclearization of the North.

On Thursday, Suh and Austin will join Blinken and South Korean Foreign Minister Chung Eui-yong for a "two plus two" meeting, which also serves as a venue to coordinate their policy measures toward North Korea and to discuss ways to further boost the alliance.

They will then initial the defence cost sharing deal and have a joint press conference.

On Friday, Austin will leave for India.