Global Times: DMZ Meeting Has ‘Broken the Stalemate’ and ‘Driven Resumption of Dialogue’

July 1, 2019 (EIRNS)—After U.S. President Donald Trump met with North Korean Chairman Kim Jong Un at the demilitarized zone on June 30, China’s Global Times published an editorial titled, “DMZ Meeting Helps Break U.S.-N.K. Deadlock.”

“The unique and unexpected meeting seemed like a decision that Trump made on a whim. Whether it was an impromptu decision or an elaborate arrangement, this Kim-Trump meeting will help break the impasse between Washington and Pyongyang,” write the editors. They point out: “Trump is forthright. He is keen on and good at seeking attention and causing a sensation. Such methods applied to promoting peace and stability can produce great results and make certain breakthroughs.”

The editorial states that after the Hanoi meeting between Trump and Kim failed in February, the sides were deadlocked, and Trump faced tremendous pressure if a third meeting were to be held. But, Global Times assesses, “However, all the opponents were caught off guard by Trump’s unscheduled greeting and meeting with Kim at the DMZ. This meeting seems symbolic, but it has broken the stalemate between the two sides and driven the resumption of dialogue. It is in fact another micro turning point in bilateral ties.”

Acknowledging that “leaders’ personal friendship can never replace the countries’ national interests,” Global Times editorial states, and “North Korea is now implementing a new strategy and actively promoting domestic economic development. Hence, easing international sanctions is much needed.” Trump did not relax sanctions; the U.S. hopes to see more commitments from North Korea toward denuclearization.

Both leaders have contributed to the significant reduction of fierce confrontations to a relatively stable situation, which is significant progress. “If the peninsula situation can keep moving forward on the basis of existing achievements, regardless of the speed, no retrograde steps can be taken. The international community is eager to see such a phased summary and consolidation,” the Beijing editorial urges, concluding: “The meeting provides possibilities for North Korea and the U.S. to find solutions. The U.S. elite should be less hostile against North Korea, view the country more objectively and change their stereotypes. The Trump Administration can contribute to this if it is willing to. It will be crucial for how the history evaluates Trump’s contribution to resolving the peninsula nuclear issue.”