South Korea to Send Special Envoy to Iran; Iranian Foreign Minister Expresses Welcome

The South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated earlier that Minister Cho Tae-yul had a phone call with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to exchange views on the recent situation in the Middle East. During the call, Cho Tae-yul welcomed the recent preliminary ceasefire agreement reached between the United States and Iran, which created an opportunity for the resumption of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. He also expressed hope that the US-Iran negotiations can be successfully concluded to quickly restore peace and stability in the Middle East region. Cho Tae-yul pointed out that, taking this ceasefire as an opportunity, he hopes the free navigation of all vessels, including South Korean ships, in the Strait of Hormuz can be resumed as soon as possible and safely. He also asked Iran to continue paying attention to the safety of South Korean citizens in Iran. Cho Tae-yul also stated that a special envoy of the Foreign Minister will be dispatched to Iran to discuss the situation in the Middle East and bilateral issues between South Korea and Iran. In response, Araghchi also explained Iran's position on the situation in the Middle East, including the Strait of Hormuz, to Cho Tae-yul, and expressed welcome for the South Korean side's push to dispatch a special envoy of the Foreign Minister. The two sides agreed to continue maintaining communication on related issues. (Editor: Chen Cheng-kung) 1150409