High-level diplomats from South Korea and Cuba took a significant step in bilateral relations following a meeting held this Wednesday in Seoul. This encounter marks the first dialogue between the two countries since they reestablished diplomatic relations early in 2024.
South Korea's Deputy Vice Minister, Chung Byung-won, welcomed Carlos Miguel Pereira Hernández, Cuba's Director General of Bilateral Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in Seoul. During the meeting, they discussed the opening of diplomatic missions in their respective countries, which they consider a "significant milestone."
Both parties agreed to establish embassies as soon as possible, noting that these will serve as a foundation for strengthening ties between the nations. Chung announced that South Korea plans to open a provisional office in Havana during the first half of the year. A group of South Korean officials will visit the Cuban capital this week.
Pereira detailed that Cuban officials are already working to inaugurate the Cuban embassy in South Korea, with the diplomatic headquarters potentially opening by July. The Director General of Bilateral Affairs from Cuba is currently in Seoul leading a delegation participating in a regional forum focused on cooperation between South Korea and Latin American and Caribbean countries.
This participation is historic, as Pereira is the first high-ranking diplomat from the island to visit Seoul since diplomatic relations were officially restored in February, following more than six decades of severance. In 2018, Miguel Díaz-Canel visited North Korea and held talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, adding an interesting context to this new phase of diplomatic relations with South Korea.
Local media have highlighted the importance of these developments, emphasizing that Cuba has been a traditional ally of North Korea since 1960. This new diplomatic relationship with South Korea is expected to have a significant impact on the region and on the international relations of both countries.
Cuba-South Korea Diplomatic Relations: Key Questions Answered
To provide a deeper understanding of this significant development between Cuba and South Korea, we've compiled some frequently asked questions and their answers.
Why are Cuba and South Korea establishing embassies now?
Cuba and South Korea are establishing embassies to strengthen their newly reestablished diplomatic relations, which began early in 2024, and to foster closer bilateral cooperation.
When will the embassies be opened?
South Korea plans to open a provisional office in Havana during the first half of the year, while Cuba aims to inaugurate its embassy in South Korea by July.
What is the significance of this diplomatic move?
This move is significant as it marks a new phase in bilateral relations between Cuba and South Korea, potentially impacting regional dynamics and international relations.
How does Cuba's relationship with North Korea factor into this?
Cuba has been a traditional ally of North Korea since 1960, and the new diplomatic relations with South Korea add an interesting dynamic to its historical alliances.