Kim Geon, Deputy Minister, to Visit UAE from 13th to 15th... First High-Level Overseas Trip Amid COVID-19 Situation

Ministry of Foreign Affairs: "First Step to Normalize Diplomatic Activities"
Discussion on Fast-Track Entry System for Businesspeople and Cooperation to Commemorate 40th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Cheol-young] The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on the 11th that it will visit the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from the 13th to the 15th, crossing the heightened border thresholds due to the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19).

This visit by Vice Minister Kim is the first overseas trip by a senior diplomatic official since the global COVID-19 pandemic restricted personnel exchanges for diplomatic activities.

During this visit, Vice Minister Kim will discuss with the UAE side measures to establish a Fast Track system to facilitate the entry of businesspeople from both sides, enhanced quarantine measures for our on-site workers, cooperation commemorating the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations, and expanding cooperation between the two countries in health, agriculture, and science and technology, aiming to develop the special strategic partnership between Korea and the UAE.

This visit will be carried out in mutual consultation with the UAE side. On the 10th, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs held an overseas trip review committee meeting and decided on the trip considering various factors such as bilateral relations, the host country's expectations, current issues, and quarantine plans.

The overseas trip review committee is composed of five members, including the Director-General of the Ministry's Policy Office as chairman, the Director-General of the Middle East and Africa Bureau, and the Overseas Safety Management Planning Officer. Two advisors, a health expert and an economic figure, also participate.

An official from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs explained, "The minimal delegation, consisting of the Vice Minister and one staff member, will strictly comply with quarantine conditions such as COVID-19 testing before and after entry and exit, wearing masks, and social distancing," adding, "This visit will serve as a stepping stone to gradually promote essential face-to-face diplomatic personnel exchanges in the future."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.