March 09, 2018

Castro Statement on President Trump-Kim Jong Un Talks

Washington, D.C.– Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20), a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, today made the following statement:

“Last night’s announcement of upcoming talks with President Trump and North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un to discuss denuclearization has the potential to mark a new beginning towards peace and security on the Korean Peninsula and international stability. But the United States should proceed with a healthy skepticism given Pyongyang’s track record, and ensure that Kim does not turn this into his own public relations stunt with no productive diplomatic outcomes.

“Given the serious stakes of these negotiations, I urge the President to prepare rather than rely on spontaneity. This includes listening to expertise within the State Department and the rest of the United States government rather than his self-proclaimed ‘deal-making skills.’ The President should also take this opportunity to swiftly appoint an Ambassador to South Korea and a special representative for North Korea policy, among many other vital diplomatic posts, and fully-fund the State Department—key actions that would ensure diplomatic success moving forward.

“We all know the costs of war on the Korean Peninsula. That’s exactly why the United States is and must pursue this diplomatic opening, so it is my hope that these discussions will begin a path towards denuclearization.”

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