S. Korean Envoy Concludes Middle East Tour, Eyes Post-Conflict Stability

South Korean Special Envoy Bolsters Middle East Ties

South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun’s Special Envoy, Moon Byung-jun, recently concluded a week-long diplomatic tour of Kuwait, Bahrain, and Iraq. The visit, which took place from May 1 to 8, 2026, aimed to discuss comprehensive practical cooperation across various sectors, particularly in anticipation of post-conflict stability in the Middle East following recent regional developments. Envoy Moon also delivered messages of profound condolence and solidarity from the South Korean government to countries affected by these events.

In Kuwait, Envoy Moon met with Deputy Foreign Minister Hamad Al-Mashaan and Minister of Oil Tareq Al-Rumi. He conveyed Foreign Minister Cho Hyun’s letter to Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Sheikh Salem Abdullah Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, expressing deep sympathy for damages sustained during the regional conflict and emphasizing joint efforts to overcome the crisis. Discussions with Minister Al-Rumi focused on encouraging South Korean companies’ participation in the reconstruction of energy facilities and infrastructure, as well as securing orders for crude oil and LPG vessels. Kuwaiti officials praised the excellence of Korean firms and sought continued government support for their involvement in key national projects.

The envoy’s visit to Bahrain included meetings with Foreign Minister Abdullatif Al Zayani, Minister of Oil and Environment Mohammed Bin Daina, and Minister of Industry and Commerce Abdullah Fakhro. Celebrating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations this year, the discussions covered ways to further develop bilateral ties. Envoy Moon delivered another letter from Minister Cho Hyun and explored cooperation on the international stage, particularly with Bahrain serving as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for the 2026-2027 term and chairing the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) in 2026. Future-oriented collaborations in sectors where Korea excels, such as nuclear power, AI, advanced technology, and ICT, were also key topics.

The final stop on the tour was Iraq, where Envoy Moon held meetings with Deputy Foreign Minister Mohammed Bahr Al-Uloum, Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs and Minister of Oil Hayan Abdul Ghani Al-Sawad, and National Investment Commission Chairman Haider Makiya. Highlighting Iraq’s crucial role as South Korea’s fourth-largest crude oil supplier, discussions centered on ensuring a stable energy supply, including crude oil, in the post-conflict era. Iraqi officials acknowledged the successful contributions of South Korean companies to major national projects, especially in energy infrastructure. Both sides agreed to establish institutional frameworks and incentives to encourage more active participation of Korean firms, recognized for their superior technology and diligence. Envoy Moon also took the opportunity to meet with South Korean business leaders operating in Iraq to address their on-site challenges and explore avenues for government support.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the special envoy’s mission was significant in conveying South Korea’s condolences and solidarity to the affected Middle Eastern nations. It also served to proactively discuss future-oriented cooperation across various sectors, paving the way for strengthened partnerships in the region following the conflict and contributing to long-term stability and economic recovery.

Source: 외교부 보도자료 — Original Article (Korean)