President Lee Jae Myung on March 24 speaks on the phone with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon at Yeomingwan, the administrative office building of Cheong Wa Dae. (Cheong Wa Dae)

By Yoo Yeon Gyeong

President Lee Jae Myung on March 24 discussed over the phone with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon responses to the situation in the Middle East.

Presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jung told a news briefing, "The two leaders exchanged views on the recent situation and outlook for the Middle East and discussed the ripple effects on the global economy and energy security."

Both sides agreed that stabilization of global supply chains for energy is a top priority amid global instability in supply and demand for crude oil.

Prime Minister Luxon said his country's perspective is that securing the safety of the Strait of Hormuz and stability of global energy supply chains are crucial, as New Zealand imports all of its refined oil. He also lauded Seoul and Wellington's participation in the joint statement on the strait and hoped to continue close communication and cooperation.

President Lee said, "Cooperation among countries with similar standpoints is crucial to restore regional peace and stabilize the global economy."

dusrud21@korea.kr