Busan is good

Mayor Park Heong-joon Meets with U.S. Consul Nolan Barkhouse

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Busan Metropolitan City Mayor Park Heong-joon met with Nolan Barkhouse, U.S. Consul in Busan, at 10:00 AM on July 18 at the International Protocol Office of City Hall. During the meeting, Mayor Park expressed his gratitude for Consul Barkhouse’s contributions to enhancing friendly relations between Busan and the United States over the past three years and discussed continued cooperation going forward.

Consul Barkhouse was appointed in August 2022 and is scheduled to complete his term in Busan at the end of this month before returning to the United States.

Mayor Park stated, “I sincerely thank you for your dedicated efforts to strengthen exchange and cooperation between Busan and the United States during your tenure,” conveying his appreciation to Consul Barkhouse.

Consul Barkhouse expressed his regret about leaving, saying, “Over the past three years, I have worked to promote public diplomacy and strengthen Korea-U.S. relations through various efforts, including encouraging civic participation in Busan. The new consul is expected to arrive in mid-August.”

Mayor Park further commented, “As the United States expands new shipbuilding and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) operations, bilateral cooperation in the shipbuilding sector is becoming increasingly important. Busan, as a core supplier of key parts and equipment for Korea’s shipbuilding industry, has high expectations. Additionally, with the sharp increase in foreign tourists visiting Busan, I hope that more American tourists will come to experience the city’s true charm.” He also requested continued interest and support from the U.S. Consulate in Busan.

Consul Barkhouse responded, “As Busan grows into a global hub city, it will be able to play a more active role in the global supply chain beyond major corporations.” He also praised Busan’s excellent educational environment and the region’s attractiveness as a residential area for foreign residents in the Busan-Ulsan-Gyeongnam (BUK) area.

Lastly, Mayor Park concluded the meeting by saying, “Busan will continue to maintain friendly relations with the United States and build a close partnership with your successor as well.”