SEOUL -- South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin emphasized the strengthened alliance with the United States during a phone conversation with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday, according to Park's office.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Park highlighted the significant role of the South Korea-U.S. alliance, particularly in the context of current global challenges, which he referred to as a "polycrisis." He expressed his expectation that Blinken will continue to work closely with the new South Korean Foreign Minister to further develop this strategic bilateral relationship.
Blinken, in turn, appreciated Park's leadership and efforts during his tenure, as noted by Park's office. The discussion between Park and Blinken also included an exchange of views on recent developments concerning suspected arms transactions between North Korea and Russia.
Both officials expressed concern over the military cooperation between Pyongyang and Moscow and North Korea's ongoing nuclear and missile development. They emphasized the importance of all United Nations members adhering to U.N. Security Council resolutions against North Korea.
The phone call, initiated by Blinken, comes as Park Jin prepares to leave office later this month following a Cabinet reshuffle. President Yoon Suk Yeol has nominated Cho Tae-yul, a former ambassador to the United Nations, as the new foreign minister.
This conversation underscores the continued importance of the South Korea-U.S. alliance in addressing regional security issues, particularly in light of North Korea's military activities and collaborations.