U.S. congressional leaders say Yoon's address will provide vision for future of alliance

President Yoon Suk Yeol, center, poses for a photo with members of a U.S. congressional delegation at the presidential office in Seoul on Thursday. [PRESIDENTIAL OFFICE]

U.S. congressional leaders have invited Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol to address a joint session of Congress, noting it will provide an opportunity to share his vision for the future of U.S.-Korea alliance, an invitation letter to Yoon released Thursday showed.

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer also said the historic event will highlight the progress made by the allied countries over the years.

Yoon's office earlier said the president has been invited to address a joint session of the U.S. Congress on April 27, one day after he will hold a bilateral summit with President Joe Biden.

"The relationship between the United States and the Republic of Korea is one of great importance and significance," said the letter, also signed by Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries.

"Your leadership has been instrumental in strengthening this partnership, and we believe the Joint Meeting would provide a platform for you to share your vision for the future of the U.S.-Korea alliance and to highlight the progress that has been made in recent years," it added.

The Korean president is set to make a state visit to the United States from April 24, becoming the first Korean president to do so in 12 years. He will be the first Korean head of state to address a joint session of the U.S. Congress since 2013.

The congressional leaders also noted that Yoon's trip to the United States will highlight the 70th anniversary of the U.S.-Korea alliance.

"With this year marking the 70th anniversary of the alliance between our two countries, it is an especially important time to reflect on the achievements of our partnership and reaffirm our shared commitment to democracy, economic prosperity and global peace," they said.

Yonhap