South Korean, U.S. Foreign Ministers Discuss Cooperation, Regional Stability

South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken held a phone call to exchange views on key issues, including bilateral relations, the situation on the Korean Peninsula, and economic cooperation. The conversation comes amid recent strains in U.S.-South Korea relations, following U.S. President Trump's criticism of South Korea's stance on Iran.

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The two sides agreed to maintain a robust combined defense posture and continue strengthening communication and coordination regarding peace on the Korean Peninsula and North Korea's denuclearization.

During the call, both ministers agreed to maintain a robust combined defense posture and continue strengthening communication and coordination regarding peace on the Korean Peninsula and North Korea's denuclearization. Minister Cho conveyed South Korea's commitment to leveraging recent U.S. initiatives as an opportunity to restart dialogue between North Korea and the United States, aiming for peace on the peninsula.

Cho Hyun also expressed South Korea's support for U.S. efforts to restore regional peace and stability. He specifically stated that Seoul is willing to make practical contributions to restoring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, a move that could address U.S. concerns regarding Iran.

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Minister Cho conveyed South Korea's commitment to leveraging recent U.S. initiatives as an opportunity to restart dialogue between North Korea and the United States, aiming for peace on the peninsula.

The two top diplomats agreed to hold a face-to-face meeting in the near future to discuss major issues in greater depth. The U.S. State Department issued a brief statement after the call, emphasizing the need for close coordination on matters vital to the alliance, without directly mentioning North Korea's denuclearization.

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Cho Hyun expressed support for U.S. efforts to restore regional peace and stability, and emphasized that Seoul is willing to make practical contributions to restoring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.