SOUTH KOREA: U.S. Defence Secretary Robert Gates visits Seoul to hold an annual military talks with South Korean counterparts

U.S. Defence Secretary Robert Gates visits Seoul to hold an annual ROK-US Security Consultative Meeting (SCM), while South Korea's anti-war protesters hold rallies in front of the venue for the meeting. U.S. Defence Secretary Robert Gates is to hold an annual ROK-US Security Consultative Meeting (SCM) on Wednesday (November 7) in Seoul to discuss bilateral military cooperation and North Korean nuclear problems. Gates, who arrived in Seoul on Tuesday (November 6) for a two-day trip, visited South Korea's National Cemetery to remember those soldiers killed during the Korean War. He also participated in a welcoming ceremony hosted by South Korean Defence Minister Kim Jang-soo and joined the 39th SCM -- the highest channel for discussing and coordinating military issues between two allies. Meanwhile a small group of South Korea's anti-war protesters held rallies in front of the venue for the meeting. The protesters, holding placards against Gates, chanted "Gates get out." "We're against Mr. Gates visiting Seoul because he's here to speak up for the interests of the United States without considering our interests," said 33-year-old protester Lee Na-yung. Gates and Kim are expected to release a joint statement at the end of the meeting.

ITN Source | November 7, 2007

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