1. Director-General for International Organizations Chung Byung-ha had a policy consultation with Mr. Fabien Penone, Director for the United Nations and International Organizations of the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France, on the afternoon of January 27 (Seoul time).

2. In the consultation, the two sides extensively discussed global issues of mutual interest, including the UN Security Council’s activities for 2021, ways to strengthen the global health governance during the COVID-19 crisis, and preparations for the UN Peacekeeping Ministerial to be held in Korea in December this year.

o The Korean side asked France to give continued attention and support to the Korean Peninsula peace process as a permanent member of the Security Council and the French side commended the Korean government’s efforts so far. It was suggested that the two countries continue close communication and cooperation in various multilateral arenas including the UN.

o In addition, the Korean side highly recognized France’s active contributions to the resolution of major conflicts and peacebuilding in Africa, including the Central African Republic and Mali, and in Lebanon, as well as to the UN peacekeeping operations. The Korean side went on to ask for France’s active participation and cooperation to ensure the success of the “4th UN Peacekeeping Ministerial” to be hosted by Korea in early December this year.

o The French side explained that as a permanent member of the Security Council, France will focus its activities on peacebuilding, conflict resolution, climate change, and security.

o The two sides agreed to hold the policy consultation on a regular basis and step up bilateral cooperation on key global issues.

3. This consultation has served as an opportunity to further reinforce multilateral cooperation between the two countries, which have worked closely together on global issues. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to hold bilateral consultations with members of the Security Council as part of its efforts to prepare for Korea’s bid for non-permanent membership of the Security Council for the 2024-2025 term.