President Lee Calls for Peace Based on Human Rights, Addresses Economic Concerns Amidst Global Tensions

President Lee Jae-myung has called on parties engaged in conflict to embrace peace, emphasizing the foundational principles of universal human rights and the lessons of history. Speaking at a Cabinet meeting and emergency economic inspection session, the President articulated a hope that nations would demonstrate courage in pursuing a peaceful resolution to ongoing global disputes.

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I hope that the parties to the war will take courageous steps toward the peace that the world desperately desires, based on the principles of universal human rights and historical lessons.

His remarks come amidst heightened tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping lane. President Lee acknowledged the gravity of the situation, stating that he could not be optimistic about the immediate future. He further warned of persistent challenges in global energy and raw material supply chains, predicting that high energy prices would continue. In response, he stressed the importance of solidifying the nation's emergency response system to navigate these turbulent times.

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The conflict surrounding the Strait of Hormuz is escalating, making it difficult to be optimistic about the situation.

President Lee also underscored the necessity of promptly implementing the recently approved supplementary budget to provide relief to citizens. He specifically cautioned against repeating past instances of discriminatory practices in aid distribution, recalling incidents where the use of specific colored cards led to stigmatization and inequity. Additionally, the President highlighted the need to address structural vulnerabilities in the nation's economy exposed by recent global events, advocating for initiatives such as diversifying supply chains, pursuing mid-to-long-term industrial reforms, and realizing a plastic-free economy as key national strategic priorities.

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For the time being, difficulties in global energy and raw material supply chains and high oil prices will continue. We must solidify the current emergency response system with these as constants.