Germany Confirms Embassy in North Korea Will Remain Closed Amid Ukraine Conflict
Germany will not reopen its embassy in North Korea while the Ukraine conflict continues, citing North Korea’s involvement. The decision comes amidst a broader context of diplomatic withdrawals and complicated relations, particularly following North Korea’s support for Russia in the war.
Germany has definitively stated that it will not reopen its embassy in North Korea while the ongoing conflict in Ukraine persists. A German government representative confirmed this position on Tuesday, emphasizing that North Korea’s involvement in the war affects diplomatic relations.
The representative remarked, “Under these circumstances of the ongoing conflict and North Korea involved in Ukraine, we cannot see the possibility to reopen the embassy,” underscoring the challenges presented by the current geopolitical situation.
Germany, along with other European nations like Britain and Sweden, withdrew its diplomatic missions from North Korea in early 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions. However, Germany had contemplated reopening the embassy, evidenced by a diplomatic visit to North Korea in February 2024 to evaluate local conditions.
The geopolitical landscape is further complicated by North Korea’s support for Russia in the Ukraine conflict, prompting Germany’s formal participation in the United Nations Command overseeing the Korean War’s armistice since last August. North Korea has condemned Germany’s engagement with the UNC as disruptive to peace in the region.
“As long as the conflict (in Ukraine) is ongoing, we will not open (the embassy),” the official reiterated to Yonhap News Agency, reaffirming Germany’s commitment to its stance. In contrast, Sweden successfully reinstated its diplomats in North Korea last September, with Poland and Switzerland also resuming diplomatic efforts.
In summary, Germany’s decision to keep its embassy in North Korea closed is firmly tied to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and North Korea’s involvement in it. While some countries have resumed diplomatic activities, Germany remains cautious, reflecting the complexities of international relations in the current climate. This position underscores the geopolitical ramifications of the war and its influence on diplomatic missions worldwide.
Original Source: www.koreatimes.co.kr
