South Korea has established diplomatic ties with Syria, finalizing relations except with North Korea. Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul’s visit to Damascus marks a strategic diplomatic shift and aims to enhance cooperation, humanitarian aid, and economic development, while pressuring North Korea.
On Thursday, South Korea officially established diplomatic relations with Syria, completing the normalization of ties with every United Nations member state except North Korea. Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul personally traveled to Syria to finalize this historic agreement, highlighting a strategic expansion of South Korea’s diplomatic reach and exerting added pressure on North Korea, Syria’s ally.
During a meeting in Damascus, Cho and Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani signed a joint statement to formalize their diplomatic relationship, affirming intentions to bolster bilateral cooperation. Cho articulated, “The establishment of diplomatic relations opens a new chapter of cooperation with Syria” and emphasized the significance of stability in Syria for broader global peace.
Cho conveyed South Korea’s commitment to share developmental expertise and facilitate possible South Korean investment in reconstruction efforts within Syria. Furthermore, he pledged humanitarian aid comprising medical supplies, equipment, and rice to address Syria’s ongoing humanitarian crisis, which received appreciative acknowledgment from al-Shaibani.
The discussions also included a request from al-Shaibani for assistance in easing international sanctions imposed on Syria, with al-Shaibani asserting, “We look forward to Korea’s support in the relaxation of sanctions against Syria.” Additionally, Cho met with Syrian President Ahmed Al-Sharaa, congratulating the newly formed government following the removal of the Assad regime and expressing hopes for Syria’s future.
Cho highlighted the need for Syria to engage in inclusive political processes and comply with international requests to create favorable conditions for substantial reconstruction and sustainable economic growth. President Al-Sharaa welcomed this diplomatic rapprochement, stating, “South Korea’s support is essential for Syria’s new start.”
This diplomatic step follows a senior Foreign Ministry official’s confirmation of Syria’s intention to normalize relations with South Korea earlier this year and solidifies South Korea’s place in the international community as it now holds relations with 194 diplomatic partners, excluding North Korea. Notably, Syria’s trajectory toward diplomatic normalization was influenced by the political shift after the Assad regime’s fall, as the interim government seeks to foster new international partnerships while distancing itself from previous ties with North Korea and Russia.
In conclusion, South Korea’s establishment of diplomatic relations with Syria marks a significant milestone in its foreign policy, emphasizing the nation’s commitment to broadening its diplomatic engagements while addressing humanitarian concerns. This move positions South Korea as a partner for development and stability in the Middle East, while concurrently increasing pressures on North Korea, thus changing the geopolitical dynamics in the region. The successful negotiation by Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul also reflects the evolving landscape of international relations post-Assad.
Original Source: koreajoongangdaily.joins.com
