Korean Foreign Minister Jo Hyun continued his diplomatic efforts to strengthen the Korea-U.S. alliance and restore multilateralism centered on the United Nations during his attendance at the 81st UN General Assembly high-level meeting.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on September 22, Jo met with Democratic Senators Jin Shaheen and Chris Coons in New York on September 21 (local time) to discuss Korea-U.S. relations, issues on the Korean Peninsula, and regional dynamics.
Jo explained that during the Korea-U.S. Foreign Ministers' meeting held in Washington, D.C., on September 18, both countries agreed to maintain ongoing communication to faithfully implement key agreements made between their leaders, including a joint fact sheet (JFS). He urged the U.S. Congress to actively support the swift advancement of strategic cooperation in key areas such as North Korea and nuclear energy.
The two senators reaffirmed the strong bipartisan support for the Korea-U.S. alliance within the U.S. Congress. They noted that investments by Korean companies in the U.S. contribute to job creation and the revitalization of the manufacturing sector, and they pledged to continue congressional interest and support to ensure the smooth implementation of key JFS agreements, including cooperation on North Korea.
Jo also shared the South Korean government's assessment of the situation on the Korean Peninsula and its efforts to maintain denuclearization, peace, and stability. Both sides agreed to closely cooperate for peace and stability in the region.
From September 19 to 21, Jo held meetings with four candidates for the next UN Secretary-General. On September 19, he met with Carolyn Rodriguez-Buckett, the Guyanese Ambassador to the UN, and Rebecca Greenspan, Secretary-General of the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). On September 20, he met with former UN General Assembly President Maria Fernanda Espinosa, and on September 21, he met with Rafael Grossi, Director-General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
Jo emphasized the need to strengthen UN-centered multilateralism to address ongoing international issues, including protracted armed conflicts. He stated that the role of the next Secretary-General is more important than ever for the UN to become a more effective and accountable organization. He also requested the candidates' interest and support for expanding Korean representation within the UN.
The candidates explained that the leadership of a Secretary-General who understands the UN system and broad support from member states are necessary for UN reform. They particularly noted that South Korea, as a middle power that has consistently contributed to the UN, can play a crucial role in building consensus among member states and broadening support for reforms.
Antonio Guterres, the current UN Secretary-General, will complete his term at the end of this year. Seven candidates are currently running for the next Secretary-General, who will be appointed by the UN General Assembly following a recommendation from the UN Security Council.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.