South Korea, Africa Boost Cooperation Amid Global Instability

South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun has underscored the increasing significance of cooperation between South Korea and African nations, particularly in the context of escalating uncertainties in the Middle East and global supply chain, energy, and food security concerns.

Speaking at the 2026 Korea-Africa Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Seoul, Cho stated that Africa's geopolitical and economic importance is growing, especially with continued instability in the Middle East and around the Strait of Hormuz. He affirmed South Korea's commitment to expanding cooperation with African countries, referencing President Lee Jae-myung's engagement with leaders of major African nations since taking office.

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With the continued instability in the Middle East and the ongoing uncertainties surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, African countries are becoming increasingly important on the international stage, both geopolitically and economically.

Cho described Africa as the world's youngest continent with immense growth potential, often referred to as the "continent of the future." He pointed out its strategic location at the intersection of major maritime routes connecting the Atlantic, Indian, and Red Seas, and its estimated 30% share of global key mineral reserves. The minister also expressed South Korea's willingness to share its experience of rapid economic and democratic development from post-war devastation.

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Africa is the world's youngest continent with vast growth potential, widely regarded as the 'continent of the future.'

He invoked an East African proverb, "Even a spider's web, when joined together, can tie up a lion," to emphasize that collective efforts drawing on each nation's strengths can effectively address contemporary challenges. The meeting, themed "Korea-Africa Partnership for Joint Response in a Global Transition Period," included foreign ministers from 50 African countries and four regional organizations, marking the first time South Korea has hosted such a comprehensive meeting with the entire African continent.

The discussions focused on strengthening economic cooperation and jointly addressing global challenges. A Korea-Africa Business Forum is also scheduled, bringing together over 300 participants from business, government, and diplomatic sectors. This initiative reflects South Korea's strategic pivot towards Africa, recognizing its growing value amidst geopolitical shifts, including the US-Iran conflict, US-China tensions, and rising protectionism.

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Even a spider's web, when joined together, can tie up a lion.