By Diplomacy Journal Kayla Lee

Foreign Minister Cho Hyun met with Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations (DPO) at the United Nations, who is visiting South Korea, on September 15. They exchanged views on ways to strengthen South Korea-UN cooperation and the future development direction of UN Peacekeeping Operations (PKO).

Minister Cho emphasized Korea's commitment to continue contributing to enhancing the adaptability and effectiveness of UN peacekeeping operations as a major troop- and finance-contributing nation. He also called for further strengthening cooperation between Korea and the UN in the field of peace and security.

Furthermore, Minister Cho requested the UN Secretariat's attention and support to ensure the continued participation of Korean nationals in international organizations, commensurate with Korea's status and contributions at the UN.

Under-Secretary-General Lacroix highly commended Korea's contributions to UN peacekeeping operations, including the dispatch of the Dongmyeong Unit and Hanbit Unit, as well as financial support for UN peace activities, expressing deep gratitude.

He also expressed hope for expanded cooperation with Korea regarding strengthening UN PKO capabilities and utilizing advanced technologies, given the complex challenges facing UN PKO.

The Department of Peace Operations (DPO) is the primary department within the UN Secretariat responsible for overseeing peacekeeping operations, including disarmament, prevention of recurrence, and security maintenance in regions undergoing cessation of hostilities or peace restoration.

This meeting is seen as an opportunity to discuss ways to strengthen cooperation between South Korea and the UN in the field of peace and security.