By Diplomacy Journal Kayla Lee

Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul signed a joint statement on the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Korea and Syria with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani in Damascus on April 10, establishing official diplomatic relations between the two countries.

The establishment of diplomatic relations with Syria, which remained the only unestablished diplomatic relationship after the establishment of diplomatic relations with Cuba last year, marks a historic milestone for South Korea, which has established diplomatic relations with all 191 UN member states, and opened a new chapter of cooperation with Syria, which had previously been severed due to its close ties with North Korea.

Following the signing of the joint statement, Minister Cho held a bilateral meeting with Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani and held detailed discussions on the way forward for bilateral relations after the establishment of diplomatic relations.

Emphasizing that Syria's stability and prosperity are crucial for peace in the Middle East and global peace in general, Minister Cho hoped that bilateral cooperation based on the establishment of diplomatic relations between South Korea and Syria will contribute to Syria's development and the stability of the Middle East.

In particular, Minister Cho expressed his willingness to transfer our development experience in Syria's national reconstruction process and discussed the possibility of Korean companies' participation in reconstruction activities when conditions improve.

He also expressed his intention to support the response to the humanitarian crisis facing Syria by providing humanitarian supplies such as medicines, medical devices, and rice.

In response, Foreign Minister Al-Shaibani expressed his appreciation for Korea's willingness to share its development experience and humanitarian assistance plans, and said that he looked forward to Korea's support for the easing of sanctions on Syria, and asked for continued discussions on Korea's contribution to Syria's reconstruction in the future.

Cho then called on President Ahmed al-Sharaa of Syria. Cho congratulated the new government on its successful transition to an inclusive government following the ouster of the Assad regime.

He also said that a favorable environment for Syria's reconstruction and sustained economic development will be created if Syria responds to the international community's demands, including continuing the inclusive political process, taking a decisive response to extremism, and eliminating chemical weapons, and that Korea will play a necessary role in supporting the new government's efforts.

President Al-Sharaa welcomed the establishment of diplomatic relations between South Korea and Syria and said that South Korea's support is crucial for the start of a new Syria, and hoped that through this exchange, South Korea and Syria will develop a friendly and cooperative relationship that contributes to international peace.