South Korea Establishes Formal Diplomatic Ties with Syria's New Islamist Government

The agreement, signed in Damascus, marks a strategic move to support Syria's reconstruction and counter North Korea's regional influence.

• South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul signed a joint communique with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani in Damascus, formalizing diplomatic relations.
• This marks a significant shift, as Syria previously maintained close ties with North Korea, limiting cooperation with South Korea.
• South Korea aims to support Syria's reconstruction after its 13-year civil war and expand humanitarian aid efforts in the region.
• The move is part of a broader South Korean strategy to counter North Korea's influence, following similar diplomatic engagements with Cuba.
• The development occurs during heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula, with North Korea continuing provocative nuclear weapons and missile activities.

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Al Jazeera