The two-day Japan-South Korea business conference kicked off in Tokyo on May 15 with approximately 200 business leaders attending from the two countries.

Former Japanese Prime Minister Suga Yoshihide, who serves as the chairman of the

Japan-Korea Parliamentarians’ Union said that the neighboring countries should cooperate as partners in the international community.

The event came amid increased momentum for improved Japan-South Korea ties.

Representatives from both countries emphasized the importance of strengthening relations.

S/ Mori Takeo, former Japanese Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs: I’m confident that based on the good Japan-South Korea relations in the future, investment activities will be strengthened in both directions, from Japan to South Korea and vice versa.

Chey Tae-won, the chairman of the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry pointed out that improving sentiments in the two countries have not given influence on its economy.

He called for the urgent strengthening of economic ties, saying that they will be surpassed by emerging countries if they do not do so.

A joint statement is scheduled to be announced on May 16.