Gyeonggi Province Governor Kim Moon-soo delivered a letter on the 20th to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, who is visiting South Korea, and to the U.S. House Armed Services Committee (Chairman Ike Skelton) through the U.S. Embassy, stating: "Please support the rapid relocation of USFK to Pyeongtaek."
In his letter, Governor Kim said: "Gyeonggi Province has provided all possible assistance to the USFK realignment plan," and added: "In line with this, we are also supporting the construction of international schools, hospitals, and necessary infrastructure."
"However, as the USFK realignment plan continues to be delayed, it is causing great confusion and significant economic losses to residents of Dongducheon and Pyeongtaek," Governor Kim stated. "Provincial residents have long been strong supporters of USFK and the Korea-U.S. alliance, but are disappointed by the postponement of the military base relocation."
Governor Kim therefore requested that the United States show interest and provide support for rapid relocation to ensure that not only local residents but also USFK personnel do not suffer from the delay.
A provincial official stated: "It is the role and responsibility of local governments to represent and protect the interests of residents, and if necessary, appropriate measures with foreign governments and legislatures are needed," and added: "As a result of consultations with central government ministries regarding the letter delivery plan, the government's position was not different from that of the province."
The province announced that following Governor Kim's delivery of this letter, it plans to send letters requesting the early relocation of the military base to members of Congress, both senators and representatives, with whom the province has maintained relationships.
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