SOUTH KOREA JOINS IN:

Roh Justifies Decision to Send Troops (Chosun Ilbo, 3/26/2003)

President Roh Moo-hyun said Wednesday that the government's decision to send troops to Iraq is in line with its plan to deal wisely with the nuclear crisis on the peninsula and secure peace. "The decision was made based on strategic and practical reasons," he said. "Logic or justice was not the top consideration."

Speaking at the commencement ceremony for the 3rd Military Academy, President Roh said, "When Korea-U.S. relations are steadier, it will be possible to solve the nuclear problem and improve relations between the North and the United States."

Roh promised that no war here disapproved by South Korea would occur, and said that Korea-U.S.-Japan relations must be strengthened. "Because of practical reasons like these, the government decided to send troops to the Iraq war," he said.

Roh asked for the public's understanding, saying, "Peace on the peninsula was given top priority in making the decision."

In other words, if we won't help the U.S., why should the U.S. help us?

Roh doesn't sound very gung ho, but as Harry points out, we'll need infantry in the months ahead to keep the country secure, and all help is appreciated. Thanks, Korea.

Posted by Paul Jaminet at March 26, 2003 7:32 AM