Welcome to Busan and congratulations on being selected as a delegate to the first U.S.-ROK-Japan Global Leadership Youth Summit. On behalf of the U.S. Embassy, I want to thank you for all that you have done – and all that you will do – in support of the trilateral partnership.

President Biden, President Yoon, and Prime Minister Kishida met at Camp David in 2023 to announce a new era of trilateral partnership that will allow us to do even greater things together. This reflects the increasingly important role our three countries play in international affairs. Thanks to our dynamic economies, strong democracies, and global cultural influence, the United States, Republic of Korea, and Japan are uniquely positioned to make a positive impact in an increasingly complicated and interconnected world.

For the trilateral partnership to thrive, it is imperative that young people have a seat at the table, and for your leaders to listen to what you have to say. That’s why the U.S. Department of State is working hard to create space for youth to make meaningful contributions to policy discussions about the biggest challenges facing the world today. That includes this historic inaugural youth summit as well as even more trilateral youth programs to come as part of our new Young Trilateral Leader’s network (YTL).

As delegates, you were selected for your ability to work across borders, find common ground, and explain what’s at stake to people in your home countries. A lot is riding on your ability to navigate this relationship and make sure it reaches its full potential. I look forward to hearing your innovative ideas for how to bring the trilateral partnership even closer together. Thank you.

Best,