Minister of Foreign Affairs Cho Hyun on March 23 spoke on the phone with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi on the situation in the Middle East. (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)

By Aisylu Akhmetzianova

Minister of Foreign Affairs Cho Hyun on March 23 in phone talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi pressed for safety guarantees for ships in the Strait of Hormuz.

Minister Cho expressed deep concern over the recent Mideast situation's impact on global security and economy beyond the region, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Seoul said.

He also requested a stop to attacks on civilians and related facilities in Gulf nations and for Iran to take measures to deescalate tension to normalize global energy supplies.

Minister Cho said, "Special attention and support are needed to ensure the safety of our citizens in Iran," adding that vessels from multiple countries including Korea are anchored in the strait and requesting Iran's implementation of safety measures.

Minister Araghchi explained Iran's stance on the situation, and both sides agreed to share updates and continue close communication on the issue.

aisylu@korea.kr