Iranian Ambassador to KBS: Iran and South Korea Should Expand Bilateral Cooperation

Ahmad Erfanian, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the Republic of Korea, emphasized the need to strengthen bilateral cooperation in economic, trade, scientific, technological, and cultural fields in an interview with Korean Broadcasting System (KBS). Highlighting the broad potential of relations between Tehran and Seoul, he praised South Korea’s rich culture and achievements and described people-to-people exchanges, academic cooperation, and cultural activities as important avenues for strengthening friendship between the two nations.
Referring to symbols of friendship between the two countries, including Tehran Street in Seoul and Seoul Street in Tehran, Erfanian underscored the importance of promoting mutual understanding through cultural programs, art exhibitions, student exchanges, and tourism cooperation. He also called for preventing regional tensions from undermining friendly relations between Iran and South Korea, stressing that maintaining communication channels and continuing political dialogue are essential to enhancing mutual understanding and contributing to regional stability.
In another part of the interview, the Iranian ambassador highlighted the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz for maritime security and the global economy. He stated that ensuring lasting security in this vital waterway requires addressing the root causes of the crisis and ending the war and escalating tensions in the region. Noting that Iran is not pleased with the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, he described Iran’s actions as measures taken within the framework of protecting its national security and territorial integrity. He stressed that ending the war and removing the conditions fueling tensions are essential to establishing sustainable security.
Erfanian also reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to diplomacy and the peaceful resolution of disputes, emphasizing that progress in negotiations requires respect for rights, national sovereignty, and diplomatic commitments. While underscoring Iran’s defensive preparedness, he stated that the Islamic Republic of Iran does not seek to expand the conflict and considers diplomacy the appropriate means of reducing tensions and achieving peace and stability.
Concluding his remarks, the ambassador highlighted the economic potential of relations between Tehran and Seoul, noting that bilateral trade exceeded $17 billion in 2011, making South Korea Iran’s fourth-largest trading partner. He identified sanctions as a major factor behind the interruption of economic cooperation and expressed hope that, with conditions in place for the resumption of trade relations, South Korea would once again become one of Iran’s major trading partners.