Minister of Foreign Affairs Cho Hyun on Aug. 24 speaks on the phone with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on bilateral relations, issues related to the Korean Peninsula and global affairs. (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)

By Kim Seon Ah

Minister of Foreign Affairs Cho Hyun on Aug. 24 held phone talks with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on their bilateral alliance, issues related to the Korean Peninsula and global affairs.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Seoul said both diplomats agreed on the importance of close bilateral communication amid recent geopolitical shifts.

They agreed to bolster their alliance through mutually beneficial outcomes on key issues like tariff and investment agreements, shipbuilding and security cooperation.

They also pledged to maintain a strong joint defensive posture and closely cooperate to achieve peace on the peninsula and resolve North Korea's nuclear program.

Minister Cho pledged Seoul's efforts so that recent messages from U.S. President Donald Trump lead to the resumption of Washington's dialogue with Pyeongyang and peace in the region.

The two officials also discussed the situation in the Middle East including Iran. Minister Cho said Seoul is willing to make a practical contribution to restore freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and agreed to continue consultations on specific measures.

They agreed to hold in-person dialogue soon on key issues.

sofiakim218@korea.kr