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By Nam Hyun-woo
South Korea and the U.S. are two of five countries that will co-host the second Summit for Democracy to be held in March next year via videoconference. The three others are Costa Rica, the Netherlands and Zambia.
According to a joint statement released on Wednesday, the second Summit for Democracy will be held from March 29 to 30, next year.
The U.S. hosted the first virtual Summit for Democracy in December last year under the topics of strengthening democracy, defending against authoritarianism, fighting corruption and promoting respect for human rights. Former South Korean President Moon Jae-in took part in the first edition.
The second summit will include a plenary session on March 29 and hybrid gatherings on March 30. The co-hosts will each preside over hybrid gatherings participated by leaders of their regions. South Korea, which represents the Indo-Pacific region, will host a session under the theme of anti-corruption.
"This gathering will demonstrate how democracies deliver for their citizens and are best equipped to address the world's most pressing challenges," the joint statement reads.
"From wars of aggression to changes in climate, societal mistrust and technological transformation, it could not be clearer that all around the world, democracy needs champions at all levels. Together with other invitees to the second Summit, we look forward to taking up this call, and demonstrating how transparent, accountable governance remains the best way to deliver lasting prosperity, peace, and justice."
At the session, the presidential office said, South Korea will share its democratization experiences and anti-corruption efforts with the international community and by doing so, it will continue to expand its diplomatic horizon.
