1. On March 11, Minister of Foreign Affairs Chung Eui-yong spoke with United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for the first time. Together they discussed topics of mutual interest, including Korea-UN cooperation, the situation on the Korean Peninsula as well as other regional issues, and ways to increase Korean nationals’ presence at high-level positions of the UN.

2. Foreign Minister Chung and Secretary-General Guterres highlighted the leading role of the UN in dealing with global issues: peacekeeping, COVID-19 spread, and climate change. They also appreciated Korea’s role in addressing these issues, and agreed to further strengthen cooperation.

In particular, the Secretary-General noted that he will positively consider attending the 2021 Partnering for Green Growth and Global Goals 2030 (P4G) Seoul Summit, which will be held in a virtual format from May 30 to 31, as well as the 2021 UN Peacekeeping Ministerial that will take place in Seoul from December 7 to 8 this year.

Foreign Minister Chung asked for the Secretary-General’s attention to increasing Korean nationals’ presence at high-level positions of the UN. The Secretary-General noted that he has a high regard for Koreans’ competence and commitment.

3. Secretary-General Guterres expressed his continued support for the Korean government’s efforts to establish permanent peace on the Peninsula. Foreign Minister Chung stated that, as this year marks the 30^th anniversary of the two Koreas’ accession to the UN, Korea will continue efforts to create new opportunities for advancing inter-Korean relations.

Foreign Minister Chung expressed support for the UN’s efforts regarding the situation in Myanmar, and added that Korea will coordinate closely with relevant countries including ASEAN.

4. Foreign Minister Chung highly praised the leadership and achievements of the Secretary-General, and expressed the Korean government’s support for Secretary-General Guterres on his bid for a second five-year term.

Secretary-General Guterres extended appreciation for Korea’s support and suggested working together in addressing shared challenges of the international community.