Menendez Welcomes South Korean President Park to Congress

Menendez: “As we face continued challenges from North Korea, it is essential that the United States and Republic of Korea work closely together, placing an enhanced alliance and bilateral cooperation at the heart of our policy.” 

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Sen. Robert Menendez (D-NJ), Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, welcomed Republic of Korea President Park Geun-hye to Congress today and released the following statement:

"I am pleased to welcome President Park to Congress.  Her visit comes at an important moment for both of our nations and our alliance.  The governments and people of the United States and the Republic of Korea share a dynamic partnership, a personal friendship rooted in our common values and an alliance critical for the preservation of peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and in Northeast Asia.  This year marks the 60th anniversary of that alliance, forged in the crucible of the Korean War and enduring to protect us both from hostile aggression. 

“As we face continued challenges from North Korea, it is essential that the United States and Republic of Korea work closely together, placing an enhanced alliance and bilateral cooperation at the heart of our policy.  This visit is a historic one and I have joined several of my colleagues in introducing a senate resolution congratulating President Park on her election. We celebrate our alliance, rededicate ourselves to deepening and broadening our partnership in the region and around the globe, and pledge to build a comprehensive alliance that is vital for our century.”

###