On Wednesday, Feb. 14, diplomatic and consular relations were established between the Republic of Korea and the Republic of Cuba through the exchange of diplomatic notes between the permanent representations of both countries to the United Nations in New York. Through this event, Cuba became Korea¡¯s 193rd diplomatic partner after a 65-year hiatus.

The establishment of diplomatic relations with Cuba, the only country in Central and South America and the Caribbean with which Korea did not have official ties, is expected to be a significant turning point for boosting Korea¡¯s diplomatic ties in the region. The ministry also anticipates this establishment will further expand Korea¡¯s diplomatic reach as a global pivotal country.

MINREX, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Cuba), also announced the initiation of diplomatic ties with Korea. The Cuban government explained, ¡°This development aligns with the objectives and principles outlined in the UN Charter, international law and the spirit and norms set forth in bilateral agreements pertaining to diplomatic relations.¡±

With the establishment of diplomatic ties with Cuba, it is anticipated that the two nations will set a regulatory system to facilitate the expansion of economic cooperation and support Korean companies for entry into the Cuban market. This is expected to contribute to substantial growth in economic cooperation between the two nations.

Furthermore, it is anticipated that both nations will dispatch a diplomatic mission to each other¡¯s nations to assist in addressing challenges that their citizens may encounter, such as administrative difficulties in handling their affairs directly in foreign countries. Additionally, Korea plans to actively engage in discussions with the Cuban government on follow-up measures for forming official relations, including the mutual opening of resident embassies.

The diplomatic ties are attributed to the long-standing efforts and the brisk cultural exchange between the two nations. From 2000, Korea formally proposed negotiations for diplomatic ties with Cuba and Korea expedited the establishment of diplomatic relations with Cuba. The current government also has further intensified its focus on enhancing relations with Cuba and consistently knocked on doors at every opportunity.

Beyond this, the expansion of exchanges and collaboration in non-political spheres, such as culture, personal interactions and development cooperation, was instrumental in forging diplomatic ties. The presence of over 1,100 Korean residents in Cuba, an annual influx of approximately 14,000 Cuban visitors to Korea before the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the activity of the Hallyu (Korean Wave) fan club ActCor highlight the enduring exchanges between Korea and Cuba.

As evidenced by recent vibrant political and cultural exchanges, the growing mutual understanding and friendly relations among the people of both countries have contributed to the establishment of official relations. Now, with this milestone achieved, it is time for both nations to join hands and move forward together for the good of each other.