Chung Kwang-yong (third from right), director–general of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ African and Middle Eastern Affairs Bureau, on March 4 holds a meeting with the ambassadors from the six member countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council — Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman and Bahrain — on the escalating U.S.-Iran conflict at Government Complex-Seoul in the capital’s Jongno-gu District. (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
By Charles Audouin
Amid mounting tension in the Middle East caused by the escalating U.S.-Iran conflict, Korea is raising diplomatic communication with the six member countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).
Chung Kwang-yong, director-general of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ African and Middle Eastern Affairs Bureau, on March 4 discussed the situation at a meeting of ambassadors from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman and Bahrain at Government Complex-Seoul in the capital’s Jongno-gu District.
Founded in 1981, the GCC is a political, economic and security cooperation body comprising oil-producing countries that play key roles in the global energy market. The meeting was held at the request of the council’s diplomatic corps.
The diplomatic corps explained the Mideast security situation and damage caused by attacks on civilian infrastructure, the ministry said, and requested Seoul’s attention and support.
Director-General Chung expressed concern by saying his ministry is closely monitoring escalating tension and spreading damage in the region. He also expressed regret over rising damage due to attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure in several countries, adding his hope for no further casualties or material losses.
He lauded the diplomatic efforts of GCC member countries to maintain peace and stability in the Middle East. Considering the negative impact of the situation on the global economy, energy supply chains and international transportation, he urged the restoration of regional peace and stability as soon as possible.
caudouin@korea.kr
