TEHRAN - Kim Junpyo, the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Iran, calls Foreign Minister Abdollahian a “notable figure” in the diplomatic community whose untimely demise is a “significant loss” for Iran and the international community.
In an interview with the Tehran Times, Ambassador Kim also says the late Foreign Minister “demonstrated a commitment to fostering dialogue and improving Iran's relations with various nations.”
Following is the text of the interview:
1. What is your feeling about the passing of the foreign minister?
First of all, I would like to extend my deepest condolences to the people of Iran and the families of all those who perished in this tragic helicopter crash. The sudden loss of President Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian, and other esteemed individuals is a profound tragedy.
“During his tenure, Amir Abdollahian played a significant role in solving the frozen asset issue.” Foreign Minister Abdollahian was a notable figure in the diplomatic community, and his untimely demise is a significant loss not only for Iran but for the international community as well.
I met Foreign Minister Abdollahian in person when I presented my credentials to him last March. During our brief meeting, I was impressed by his seasoned diplomatic skills and found him a pleasure to converse with. His deep interest and strong initiative in upgrading Iran-South Korea relations made me optimistic about a brighter future for our two nations.
To commemorate Foreign Minister Abdollahian and all those who passed away, I half-raised the embassy's flag and participated in a ceremony to sign a book of condolence, expressing my heartfelt sympathies and solidarity with the Iranian people during this difficult time.
2. What is your perspective on his diplomatic legacies?
Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian left behind a substantial legacy in international diplomacy. Throughout his tenure, he demonstrated a commitment to fostering dialogue and improving Iran's relations with various nations. His efforts to engage in constructive conversations on complex issues showcased his dedication to peaceful and collaborative international relations.
His work in facilitating key negotiations was a testament to his diplomatic acumen and tireless service. His initiatives in strengthening multilateral ties, especially within the Middle East, have been instrumental in shaping a more connected and cooperative region. The loss of such an influential figure will be deeply felt across the diplomatic community.
In regards to the Iran-South Korea bilateral relationship, he paved the foundation for strengthening and improving the ties between the two countries. During his tenure, he played a significant role in solving the frozen asset issue, and the positive momentum was created for the additional improvement of bilateral relations.
Iran-South Korea Foreign Ministers had their telephone conversation on 4th September 2023, and met on the occasion of the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly on 22nd September 2023, where they expressed their commitment to work together to advance bilateral ties. In addition, a South Korean high-ranking official attended the International Conference on Combating Sand and Dust Storms, co-hosted by the Iranian Government and the United Nations. Now we are on the path to further enhancement of partnership.
3. What are your views on the future of Iran-South Korea relations?
Honoring the legacy of Foreign Minister Abdollahian, I believe that Iran-South Korea relations will continue to be guided by mutual respect and shared interests.
Our nations have a long history of exchange and collaboration, and we are committed to maintaining and strengthening these ties. We see huge potential for cooperation in various areas such as economy, culture, and human exchange. I hope for a day when our nations can fully realize these potentials.
Moving forward, it is crucial to build on the foundations laid by previous diplomatic efforts to ensure that our bilateral relations grow even stronger. I am optimistic that through continued dialogue and cooperation, the partnership between Iran and South Korea will flourish, contributing to the stability and growth of both our nations.
As the South Korean Ambassador to Iran, I will exert my best efforts to promote our ties and to bring a brighter future which Foreign Minister Abdollahian had presumably hoped for.
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