Commander, U.S. Pacific Command: U.S.-ROK alliance key to peace on Korean Peninsula
U.S. Pacific Command Public Affairs
Camp H.M. Smith, Hawaii (808) 477-1355
Release #0302-03
March 31, 2003
CAMP SMITH, HI -- Admiral Thomas B. Fargo, USN, commander, U.S. Pacific Command, met with Republic of Korea’s President Roh Moo Hyun and other senior officials during a visit to S. Korea March 27-29. In his first meeting with the new president, Fargo expressed the American military’s pride in the U.S.-ROK alliance and continuing commitment to peace and stability in the Asia Pacific region. “Our strong alliance with the Republic of Korea has been the foundation of peace and stability on the Korean peninsula for 50 years,” said Fargo during the visit.
“Important events in the Middle East do not eclipse the value of that legacy nor diminish our commitment to peace and security in Northeast Asia. This visit has reinforced that fact, and we look forward to further strengthening our partnership with South Korea to address current and future security challenges.”
In his calls on President Roh and other S. Korean officials Fargo also stressed the importance of a multi-lateral approach to the N. Korean nuclear issue and conveyed his hopes for a peaceful resolution through diplomatic means.
Fargo also met with American commanders and troops stationed at U.S. bases in Pohang, Kunsan, Osan, Camp Humphreys, and Seoul, to thank them for their contribution to regional security. This was his second visit to S. Korea as PACOM’s commander.
