Seoul: Foreign Minister Cho Hyun on Monday emphasized the necessity for South Korea and Africa to enhance their collaborative efforts to address global challenges and convert them into avenues for growth. Cho delivered these remarks during the opening speech at the Korea-Africa Foreign Ministers' Meeting held in Seoul, where both regions are deliberating on strategies to fortify their partnership amidst escalating global uncertainties.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Cho underscored the multifaceted challenges that the world is currently grappling with, spanning across sectors such as supply chains, energy, and food security. These challenges contribute to the growing uncertainty within the global economy. He highlighted that during this transitional period, the capabilities of individual countries are limited, making closer cooperation between Korea and Africa imperative.
The meeting was attended by representatives from 50 African nations, out of the 54 invited, along with delegates from four regional organizations. The gathering aimed to explore joint strategies to tackle global crises and enhance bilateral relationships for mutual growth.
Cho described Africa as "the continent of the future," acknowledging its vast growth potential and increasing importance on the global stage, especially in light of ongoing instability in the Middle East. Africa's strategic position at the intersection of major maritime routes and its substantial reserves of critical minerals add to its geopolitical and economic significance.
Cho stressed the Lee Jae Myung administration's dedication to strengthening ties with Africa, particularly as instability continues in the Middle East and uncertainties loom around the Strait of Hormuz. He emphasized that the challenges faced today could be more effectively addressed and transformed into opportunities through the combined efforts and experiences of Korea and Africa.
The foreign minister expressed optimism about sharing South Korea's developmental experiences post the 1950-53 Korean War. The current ministerial meeting is expected to serve as a precursor to the inaugural Korea-Africa Summit in 2024. It will review existing cooperation projects and outline the future trajectory of their partnership, setting the stage for the subsequent Korea-Africa Summit in 2029, as stated by the foreign ministry.