Korea’s Bold Diplomatic Move: Rising as a Global Powerhouse in Defense of Multilateralism
South Korea’s New Role in Multilateralism
Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yeol announced that Korea, once a UN aid recipient, will now act as a facilitator, sponsor, and leader of a multilateral system such as the United Nations.
Minister Cho made this statement during a keynote speech on behalf of the Korean government at the 79th United Nations General Assembly held in New York.
Korea recognizes its debt to the multilateral system and its ability to grow as an advocate for the multilateral system. “We want to become a global hub,” he said.
Minister Cho emphasized that Korea’s transformation from a war-torn country to a democratic and prosperous nation is evidence of the effectiveness of multilateralism.
Three Roles for Korea
Minister Cho proposed three roles for Korea to restore multilateralism like the United Nations:
- A facilitator of sustainable peace
- A supporter for sustainable development and action on climate change
- A leader for new norms and governance
Condemning North Korea-Russia Arms Trade
Minister Cho condemned the North Korea-Russia arms trade in violation of the UN Security Council resolution on sanctions against North Korea.
He criticized North Korea’s nuclear development program and human rights abuses as “two sides of the same coin.”
Support for the August 15 Unification Doctrine
Minister Cho appealed for support from the international community for the August 15 Unification Doctrine, which presents the vision of a “free, peaceful and prosperous unified Korean Peninsula.”
He emphasized the need for the international community to protect the freedom and human rights of North Korean residents who cannot speak out.