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“As we work to deter North Korea’s threat, I also applaud President Park’s vision for the peaceful unification of the Korean Peninsula under democratic rule. We should work closely with South Korea to realize this noble objective,” Rubio said in a statement marking Park’s visit to Washington.
 
“A reunified, democratic Korea would provide all Koreans with the peace, prosperity, and freedom they seek,” the Florida senator said.
 
Rubio also said U.S. President Barack Obama should “seize this opportunity” of Park’s visit to advance closer cooperation with South Korea, saying the two countries share a commitment to peace and the defense of democratic values.
 
“Out of the ashes of the war, and with the steadfast support of the United States, the Korean people rebuilt their economy and began the process of growth and development that has made South Korea one of the world’s largest economies and America’s sixth largest trading partner,” he said.
 
Recalling his visit last year to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) separating the two Koreas, Rubio said South Korea still faces a “grave threat” from the communist nation as Pyongyang continues to threaten violence.
 
“I hope President Obama will reiterate that the United States stands ready to defend South Korea in the event of North Korean aggression and discuss ways to modernize and integrate our missile defenses and our deterrent as well to pressure Pyongyang, including by reimposing a tougher sanctions regime,” he said.
 
“Obama should also never miss a chance to speak up for the rights of the North Korean people,” he said.
 
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