By I’m surprised anyone still thinks the ROK-US Free Trade Agreement still stands a chance of happening:
Trade Minister Kim Jong-hoon says the government won’t have to comply with a request for a renegotiation of the free trade agreement with the United States even if it makes such a request.
Kim’s comments follow U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s recent remarks suggesting a possible renegotiation of the trade deal.
In an interview with a domestic radio program Thursday, Kim said Clinton did not explicitly call for a renegotiation, but said she will pursue a renegotiation if Seoul agrees.
He said the government has yet to receive an official request for renegotiations from the United States.
Kim added that the trade deal will open many doors for U.S. automakers looking to increase their market share in Korea, adding that many of the stipulations they have sought for years are included in the pact. [KBS Global]
I still feel bad for Lee Myung-bak considering all the mad cow protest nonsense he had to go through to make the FTA happen and now with the change of administration in the US, I would be surprised if this deal passes in its current state.
4:49 am on January 22nd, 2009 1
I've always felt that the Korean/American FTA is bad for the US.
I hope it doesn't happen.
11:48 pm on January 22nd, 2009 2
Don't worry it won't happen.
Korea should instead concentrate on getting the deal done with EU and Canada. The negotiations with EU has been rapid lately and is now in the late stages. I'd like to see more fine European cars in Korea.