Minister of Foreign Affairs Cho Hyun held a telephone conversation with Seyyed Abbas Araghchi, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Iran, on the afternoon of Sunday, May 17, and discussed the recent situation in the Middle East, bilateral relations between the Republic of Korea and Iran, and the safety and navigation of Korean vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.

In particular, Minister Cho explained that the Korean government is currently conducting further investigations into the recent attack on the Korean vessel HMM NAMU. He also requested that the Iranian side provide its position on the facts surrounding the incident, while underscoring the importance of ensuring the safety and freedom of navigation of all vessels, including Korean vessels, in the Strait of Hormuz.

Minister Araghchi explained Iran’s position regarding the current situation in the Middle East and expressed agreement on the need to restore safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. He also stated that the ongoing confrontation in the Strait should be brought to an end as soon as possible.

The two Ministers agreed to maintain close communication to ensure the safety of Korean vessels and crew members in the Strait of Hormuz.