1. Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha met with UAE Minister of Energy Suhail bin Mohammed Al-Mazrouei on July 19, and exchanged views on the ROK-UAE relations, energy cooperation and regional situations.

2. The two Ministers took note that the ROK-UAE relations have developed steadily since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1980, and that the two countries have established close partnerships in a range of areas, including energy, construction, national defense, healthcare, medical service, public security and culture, especially since they forged the strategic partnership in 2009.

o The two Ministers also shared the view that such solid bilateral relations have been further advancing following close exchanges between high-level officials, including the phone conversation between President Moon Jae-in and UAE Crown Prince Mohammed on June 7. They agreed to continue to work to maintain such momentum.

3. Minister Kang noted that stable energy cooperation between the two countries led to the expansion of cooperation in other various areas, and asked for interest and support to help Korean companies participate in a range of infrastructure projects in the UAE.

4. Mentioning the recent situation in the Middle East, Minister Al-Mazrouei said that the UAE, as a responsible member of the international community, will respond strongly to terrorism and extremism, and explained the UAE’s position regarding the situation in Qatar.

o Minister Kang said that peace and stability in the Middle East are very important for the entire international community, and expected that countries involved in the situation in Qatar will resolve the situation wisely through dialogue and diplomatic efforts, drawing upon wisdom and experience.


* unofficial translation