Seoul: Foreign Minister Cho Hyun engaged in a phone conversation with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to deliberate on pressing matters in the Middle East, as reported by the ministry on Monday. These discussions were initiated at the behest of the U.S. State Department.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Rubio elucidated the current situation in the Middle East and requested South Korea's support and interest in efforts aimed at fostering peace and stability in the region. He underscored the necessity of international collaboration to secure the Strait of Hormuz, which is pivotal for the global economy and oil price stabilization. He urged for ongoing consultation between South Korea and the United States.

Cho conveyed appreciation to the U.S. for its assistance in evacuating South Korean nationals from the region and sought continued support from Washington. Rubio affirmed the U.S.'s commitment to providing assistance, the ministry confirmed. The two officials consented to arrange a meeting soon to engage in comprehensive discussions on global cooperation and other pertinent issues between their countries.

Earlier, Cheong Wa Dae announced that U.S. President Donald Trump's request for South Korea to dispatch warships to the Strait of Hormuz requires thorough deliberation between the nations. The government emphasized its intent to address the matter with careful consideration. Trump's appeal was part of a broader call for South Korea and four other nations to send naval forces in response to Iranian threats to close the strategic waterway.