Bush, Lee Myung-bak Hold Camp David Summit

21 April 2008

U.S. President George Bush and South Korean President Lee Myung-bak spoke with reporters Saturday, after completing a two-day summit at the presidential retreat of Camp David outside Washington.

President George W. Bush waves as South Korean President Lee Myung-bak drives their golf cart Friday, April 18, 2008, at the Presidential retreat at Camp David, Md

The two leaders held their first summit at the U.S. presidential retreat of Camp David outside Washington.

Mr. Bush and Mr. Lee were discussed a U.S.-South Korea free trade agreement, a U.S. military presence in South Korea and North Korea's nuclear weapons program.

Washington and Seoul signed a free trade agreement last June, but it is still awaiting legislative approval in both countries. White House officials have urged the U.S. Congress to consider the agreement, arguing it will increase trade both ways.

The summit began hours after U.S. and South Korean officials announced to end a ban on imports of U.S. beef. Some U.S. lawmakers have said repealing the ban was necessary before they will ratify a bi-lateral free trade deal.

But some congressional Democrats still oppose the trade deal, saying it does not adequately address access for U.S. automakers to the Korean auto market.

Mr. Lee is the fist South Korean leader to visit Camp David.

The leaders of the United States and South Korea have vowed to keep pushing North Korea to provide a full declaration of its nuclear program.

President Bush said North Korea must provide full and verifiable information about its nuclear ambitions.

Mr. Lee said he believes it will be difficult, but not impossible, to have North Korea give up its nuclear program.

President Bush also encouraged the U.S. Congress to approve a free trade agreement with South Korea this year.

Mr. Bush called the agreement a priority for his administration.

Washington and Seoul signed a free trade agreement last June, but it is still awaiting legislative approval in both countries.

Mr. Lee is the fist South Korean leader to visit Camp David.