S. Korea's top defense cost negotiator calls on U.S. to resolve furlough issue

정은보 "미국, 인건비 우선협의 제안 수용 기대"

Seoul expressed regret over the notice from U.S. Forces Korea that it might put its local Korean employees on furlough due to the lack of an agreement on sharing defense costs.
The nation's chief negotiator urged Washington to consider reaching a deal on personnel expenditures first.
We have proposed that the two sides first sign a memorandum of exchange to resolve the issue of paying South Korean workers. The funds would come from the budget set aside for last year's cost-sharing deal, and this amount would be included when we reach a final deal for this year.
USFK earlier announced that the furlough will start April 1st... if no agreement is reached by then.
The allies have been disucssing ways to share the cost of stationing American troops on the Peninsula since last September,... but they still have differences over the cost and scope.
Seoul's top negotiator also expressed regret that another round of talks hasn't taken place,... despite continued requests.
He added that South Korea will continue efforts to reach a reasonable and fair deal that contributes to the alliance and strengthening joint defense posture.

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