Outcome of ROK-Qatar Foreign Ministers’ Telephone Conversation (March 9)

Minister of Foreign Affairs Cho Hyun held a telephone conversation with H.E. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Qatar, at 7 p.m. on Monday, March 9. Minister Cho discussed the situation in the Middle East and requested the Qatari government's attention and support to ensure the safe repatriation of Korean nationals in Qatar and a stable energy supply.

Minister Mohammed stated that the recent attacks by Iran had caused significant damage to various civilian facilities, such as airports, hotels, and residential areas, in the GCC member states, including Qatar, and requested the Republic of Korea's attention and support.

Minister Cho deplored the damage to civilians, civilian facilities, and energy infrastructure in Qatar and the other GCC countries, expressing sympathy and solidarity. With regard to QatarEnergy's recent announcement to halt LNG production, Minister Cho requested the Qatari government's cooperation and attention in ensuring a stable energy supply to Korea.

Minister Cho appreciated Qatar's arrangement of an emergency direct flight from Doha to Incheon today, March 9, and conveyed his hope for continued close consultations on arranging additional flights to Korea. Furthermore, Minister Cho stated that the Korean government is mobilizing all its capabilities with the highest priority placed on the security and protection of its people, and requested the Qatari government's continued attention and support for the safety and swift return of approximately 2,000 Korean nationals in Qatar.

The two Ministers concurred to continue communication and cooperation to further advance the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries and restore peace and stability in the Middle East.