In a significant development in regional cooperation, the 10th Korea-China-Japan Tourism Ministers Meeting and the 15th Korea-China-Japan Culture Ministers Meeting are scheduled to convene next week in Japan. The events, which aim to strengthen bilateral ties and cultural exchanges among the three countries, will be held in Kobe and Kyoto, respectively, from September 10 to 12.
Background and Significance
The Korea-China-Japan Tourism and Culture Ministers Meetings serve as a platform for the three nations to discuss and strategize on mutual cooperation in tourism and cultural sectors. This year marks a significant milestone, as it will be the first meeting in five years, highlighting the importance of re-establishing and enhancing cooperation in post-pandemic recovery and sustainable development.
Participants and Agenda
The meetings will feature the participation of key officials from each country’s respective ministries. For Korea, the Cultural Sports and Tourism Minister, Lee Ryeong-von, will lead the delegation. From China, the Minister of Culture and Tourism, Zhang Zheng, will attend, along with Japan’s Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, Ishii Tetsuichi, and the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, Hiroshi Sato.
The agenda is expected to revolve around several key areas. The primary focus will be on reviving and enhancing tourism exchanges, setting a joint goal to expedite recovery post-pandemic, and promoting sustainable tourism that balances environmental, economic, and social factors. Additionally, the meetings will also address the rejuvenation of regional tourism, aiming to elevate the quality of exchanges.
Cultural Collaboration and Exchange
A joint declaration is also anticipated to be issued during the cultural ministers meeting, which will emphasize three areas of collaboration: strengthening inter-generational cultural exchanges and partnerships, using culture to drive sustainable urban development, and supporting creative activities in the cultural sector following digital transformation.
Memorandum of Cooperation
Furthermore, the three nations will sign a Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC) for the 2025-2026 Korea-China-Japan Cultural Exchange Year, underscoring their commitment to cultural diplomacy and cooperation.
Conclusion
This year’s Korea-China-Japan Tourism and Culture Ministers Meetings underscore the ongoing efforts by the three countries to strengthen ties and foster cooperation in tourism and culture. With a focus on post-pandemic recovery, sustainable development, and enhanced cultural exchanges, the meetings promise to be a pivotal step in advancing regional collaboration. The signing of the 2025-2026 Korea-China-Japan Cultural Exchange Year MOC and the issuance of joint declarations are expected to set a robust framework for future cooperation in these vital sectors.
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