1. Minister of Foreign Affairs Cho Hyun held a telephone conversation with Palestinian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Varsen Aghabekian Shahin on September 18, during which the two sides exchanged views on Korea-Palestine relations and regional affairs in the Middle East. This call also served as a courtesy exchange marking Minister Cho’s inauguration.

2. Minister Aghabekian congratulated Minister Cho on his assumption of office and proposed maintaining close communication to deepen bilateral cooperation. Minister Cho likewise congratulated Minister Aghabekian on her appointment and suggested continuing to expand bilateral cooperation.

3. Minister Cho expressed his serious concern that the already grave humanitarian situation could be further exacerbated by the recently intensified military offensive in Gaza, and called for an immediate ceasefire and improvements in the humanitarian conditions. In addition, Minister Cho mentioned that the Korean government has been providing humanitarian assistance to civilians affected by the situation in Gaza and reaffirmed Korea’s commitment to continued participation in efforts by the international community to resolve the crisis.

4. Meanwhile, Minister Cho reiterated Korea’s consistent support for the two-state solution and expressed his concerns over all actions undermining the two-state solution including the settlement construction. Minister Aghabekian appreciated Korea’s support and assistance.

5. The two ministers concurred to continue discussions on bilateral and regional issues on various occasions.