Korea-Saudi Foreign Ministers Discuss Oil Supply and Assistance for Korean Nationals' Return
Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin held a phone call with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud to request assistance for the safe return of Korean citizens and a stable oil supply amid ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.
On the 13th, South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin spoke with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud regarding the safe return of Korean nationals and the ongoing stability of oil supply from Saudi Arabia. The conversation highlights the concern over the impact of the ongoing US-Iran conflicts in the Middle East, particularly its effect on oil supply, as Saudi Arabia is South Korea's largest oil supplier. Minister Park emphasized the importance of Saudi cooperation in maintaining uninterrupted oil supplies due to the current geopolitical tensions in the region.
During the discussion, Minister Park expressed gratitude for Saudi Arabia's efforts to assist with the safe return of South Korean citizens. He discussed specific measures, including the arrangement of emergency flights from Riyadh to Incheon, to facilitate the return of approximately 2,700 South Koreans currently in Saudi Arabia. Park reassured that the South Korean government is fully mobilizing all resources to ensure the safety and protection of its nationals abroad, urging the Saudi government to remain attentive and supportive of these efforts.
In response, Minister Faisal acknowledged the recent threats to Saudi infrastructure, including civilian and energy facilities due to Iranian attacks, highlighting the severity of the situation in Gulf nations. He called for continued interest and support from South Korea to address the challenges faced by both nations in light of these regional conflicts. The exchange reflects growing geopolitical dynamics, with both countries seeking to strengthen their diplomatic ties amidst turbulent circumstances in the Middle East.