S. Korea to maintain readiness against potential N. Korean provocations: FM

South Korea's Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul said Monday that the government will maintain readiness against potential North Korean provocations through close cooperation with the United States. Cho made the remarks during a parliamentary hearing, citing a series of provocations from North Korea, such as the launch of balloons toward the South and missile tests. "The government will maintain a thorough readiness posture against various potential provocations from North Korea, while ensuring close South Korea-U.S. cooperation, especially during the U.S. presidential election and government transition period," Cho said. He also emphasized the unwavering cooperation between South Korea and the U.S., regardless of the outcome of the upcoming U.S. presidential election in November. Additionally, Cho expressed that Seoul will continue to strengthen its cooperation with Japan's new government in order to sustain positive momentum. Former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba was elected as the new prime minister. "We will actively work toward expanding future-oriented cooperation with the newly formed Japanese cabinet," Cho said. Source: Yonhap News Agency