South Korea Establishes Diplomatic Relations with Syria Amid Political Shifts
South Korea formalizes ties with Syria’s new government, a significant shift following the ousting of Bashar Assad, impacting relations with North Korea.
South Korea also established diplomatic relations with Cuba last year, which the Seoul government then claimed would deal a “political and psychological blow” to the North, whose diplomatic footing is largely dependent on a limited number of Cold War allies.
Why South Korea Establishing Diplomatic Ties With Syria’s New Government Matters
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The establishment of formal ties concludes talks that began in February with approval given by Seoul’s cabinet, according to South Korea’s Yonhap news agency, and comes as both countries are in the middle of major political transitions.
Syria and South Korea establish formal diplomatic relations
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South Korea now has diplomatic relations with all 191 U.N. member states except for its war-divided rival, North Korea.
South Korea establishes diplomatic relations with Syria, a longtime friend of rival North Korea
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Summary
South Korea has officially established diplomatic relations with Syria's new Islamist government, following the ousting of Bashar Assad. Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul's visit to Damascus underscores South Korea's commitment to aid Syria's reconstruction post-civil war and explore business opportunities. This move is seen as a strategic blow to North Korea, which previously considered Syria a friend. It marks another diplomatic milestone for South Korea, which now recognizes all UN member states except North Korea, amid escalating tensions with the isolated nation under Kim Jong Un.
Perspectives
South Korea has established diplomatic relations with Syria’s new Islamist government, a move that signifies a break from the country's past ties with North Korea.
The South Korean government aims to support Syria's reconstruction after its civil war, emphasizing humanitarian aid and potential business opportunities.
With this new relationship, South Korea has now formalized ties with all 191 UN member states except North Korea, further isolating Pyongyang on the diplomatic stage.