Seoul: South Korea will join seven countries, including European nations and Japan, in their joint statement condemning Iran's attacks in the Gulf and de facto closure of the Strait of Hormuz, the foreign ministry said Friday. The decision comes as part of broader international efforts to address the situation in this critical maritime passage.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the joint statement, issued by Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, and Canada, calls on Iran to cease its attacks and attempts to block the strategic waterway and comply with the principle of freedom of navigation. This unified stance highlights the concern shared by these nations regarding the security and accessibility of key international sea lanes.
"The decision reflects our fundamental position on the safety of international sea lanes and freedom of navigation, and consideration of international trends and the direct impact that disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz could have on our energy supply and the economy," the ministry said in a message to media. This statement underscores the potential economic and energy implications that the obstruction of the strait could pose globally.
"Participation in the joint leaders' statement underscores South Korea's commitment to contributing to international efforts to ensure safe and free navigation in the Strait of Hormuz," the ministry said. By aligning with other nations, South Korea reaffirms its role in maintaining security in international waters.
Seoul will work closely with the international community to help ensure a swift normalization of global maritime logistics networks, it added. This collaborative approach aims to restore stability and ensure the uninterrupted flow of maritime trade, vital for global economic health.