FTA Negotiations

[Anchor Lead]

The third round of talks on amending the Korea-U.S. free trade agreement have begun in Washington. The Korean negotiators say they hope to persuade the U.S. government to lift impending tariffs on Korean steel. Meanwhile, President Trump has ramped up the pressure in recent comments regarding U.S. forces stationed in Korea.

[Pkg]

modification of the Korea-U.S. free trade deal is currently underway at the U.S. Trade Representative headquarters. Unlike the previous two rounds, which took place in Washington and Seoul back in January, the ongoing talks are also tackling the issue of steel imports. The U.S. Trade Representative is to decide on which nations to exempt from the tariffs, while the Department of Commerce will decide which items to exempt by March 23, the day when the steel tariffs are to take effect. The U.S. is apparently trying to make Korea make concessions using the steel tariffs. But the two sides are likely to square off, as the Korean government is determined not to make concessions with no sound reason just because of the tariffs. U.S. President Donald Trump said recently that the United States is losing money to Korea on trade and military, and mentioned that some 30,000 American troops are stationed in Korea now. He added, (Quote) "Let's see what happens." The Washington Post has insinuated that if the negotiations go awry, he may pull out the troops from Korea. The U.S. forces command has expressed concerns.

[Soundbite] Rep. Angus King (U.S. Senator)

[Soundbite] Adm. Harry Harris (U.S. Pacific Command)

President Trump, who is well-versed in real estate deals, is known for his excellent negotiation skills. He is apparently trying to link steel tariffs to Korea's national security to protect his country's interests.