The Seoul government has set up a task force to identify specific cooperation needs in the Middle East to assist South Korean companies in post-conflict reconstruction efforts, announced Foreign Minister Cho Hyun. Cho mentioned that the ministry has created a dedicated task force to support South Korean companies in the region and has been actively assessing country-specific cooperation needs through overseas missions. This initiative aims to enhance economic cooperation and facilitate South Korean companies’ involvement in reconstruction projects in the Middle East.
Last week, the United States and Iran signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to end their prolonged conflict, extending the ceasefire for 60 days for negotiations on nuclear and other issues to achieve a final peace agreement. Cho emphasized the importance of working with the US and the global community to ensure that the agreement not only serves as a short-term de-escalation measure but also establishes a foundation for long-term peace and stability in the region.
In response to South Korean-related vessels stranded in the Strait of Hormuz, Cho assured that the government is closely monitoring the situation to ensure the safety of Korean ships and crew members. He mentioned ongoing cooperation with relevant countries to restore free and safe passage for all vessels, including South Korean ships, and revealed plans for a forthcoming phone call with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Two South Korean-operated vessels have already left the Strait of Hormuz, marking the first transit by South Korean-linked ships since the recent US-Iran agreement to reopen the crucial shipping lane. This development has reduced the number of South Korean-related ships in the area to 22.
