Connie Lawn’s Blog: Out of North Korea

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Kim Jong Il, President of North Korea

There were hugs, tears, and intense emotion, as two American journalists deplaned from their imprisonment in North Korea. Laura Ling, 32, and Euna Lee, 36, had been held by the North Koreans for 140 days. They were sentenced to 12 years of hard labor but were actually held in a guest house, as they were used for bargaining chips. The North Koreans got what they wanted – a personal visit and meetings with former President Bill Clinton. It is unclear where the US – North Korean relationship goes from here.

After the brief family reunion at a Pasadena, California airport, a tearful Laura Ling thanked many people involved in the release. She also said they were grateful to the government of North Korea for granting amnesty. Former Vice President Al Gore – who employs them in Current t.v., also thanked many people, and said “President Obama and his team were deeply involved in this humanitarian mission.” Former President Bill Clinton did not speak, but issued a written statement. At the White House, President Obama thanked all, and said “we are very pleased with the outcome.” He did not answer questions about any future nuclear talks or relations with the North Koreans.

Officials said the negotiations had been in the works for several weeks. The North Koreans sent assurances the women would be released, if Bill Clinton made a personal trip. This is something Kim Jong Il had wanted for the past ten years. Talks were conducted through Swedish diplomats, who represent the Unites States in North Korea.

Al Gore was said to have led the efforts to release them, and worked tirelessly to do so. They had been on assignment for him, working on a documentary about the female sex trade. They crossed from China into North Korea, and have now profusely apologized.

The way could now be open for more direct talks with the North Koreans. It might also open the way for talks with the Iranian government, which is in a state of crises and confusion. But, Iran now holds three American prisoners, who crossed into their borders from Iraq. They may want the same high level, face to face treatment, even if it is not considered “official.” Connie Lawn at the White House

Connie Lawn has a passionate love for NZ. She worked for Radio New Zealand for 20 years, and then for Radio Live for a few years. Connie has covered the White House and the world since 1968. Her other passion is skiing, and she calls herself "the skiing White House reporter." Her ski stories are on dcski.com and other outlets. Connie is also heard on thousands of radio stations, but firmly believes the internet is the future. She can be reached at connie@scoop.co.nz

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