In remembrance of diplomatic president DJ

(Yang Bong-Ryull, Vice President of Public Affairs, contributed to Gwangju Daily)

 

 

 

August 18, 2012 marked the third anniversary of the death of late former President Kim Dae-jung. Before and after the anniversary, a variety of memorial events were held at home and abroad to commemorate his achievements. It is widely considered that his major accomplishments as a president are to achieve the early recovery from the financial crisis which caused sovereign default, bring democracy to Korea, improve human rights, hold the first South-North Summit Talk which opened a South-North reconciliation and cooperation era, win Nobel Peace Prize, and open information era. However, I think his accomplishment in the diplomatic area is as important as other ones and he is the best president ever who showed a great diplomatic skill.

 

Considering the uncertain future of North Korea caused by the death of Kim Jeong-il at the end of last year, the fierce competition between the USA and China in Asia, and the intensifying conflict between Korea, China and Japan over territorial issues including the one in the South China Sea and historical issues, we are living in an era when a political leader who is well informed in international political affairs and has a great diplomatic skill is needed more than ever. Marking the third anniversary of his death, I am mediating his diplomatic philosophy and achievements. I am expecting a leader with an excellent diplomatic mind will be elected as the next president in the upcoming presidential election in December.