Moscow considers it important to maintain open communication channels with Seoul, as it is confident in the desire of South Korean companies to reserve the right to return to the Russian market. This was stated by the first director of the Asian department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, Ivan Zhelokhovtsev. RIA News.
The diplomat noted that Russia-South Korea relations are currently “going through difficult times.” At the same time, he emphasized that just a few years ago, the countries developed cooperation “in the most constructive way.”
“Despite significant differences in approaches, we think it is important to maintain open channels of communication with South Korean partners that confirm a similar understanding. <…>. “By holding contacts at various levels, the Republic of Korea demonstrates its desire to reserve the opportunity to return to our promising market rather than break established ties with the Russian Federation,” Zhelokhovtsev explained.
He added that Russian officials welcome Seoul’s similar approach to bilateral relations. However, Moscow plans to draw conclusions only on the basis of specific steps of foreign partners, including the introduction of economic sanctions.
The diplomat particularly drew attention to South Korea’s plans to introduce a third package of restrictions on goods exports. It is expected to be adopted in February this year. Against this background, Zhelohovtsev concluded that the restoration of mutually beneficial cooperation between the two states was up to Seoul.
Early North Korean leader Kim Jong-un stated About readiness to invade South Korean territory.