Korea's envoy stresses protection of civilians, upholding international law at UNSC meeting on Middle East

Korea's special envoy for Middle East peace attended a United Nations Security Council (UNSC) meeting this week and called for greater efforts to advance peaceful solutions to conflicts in the Middle East, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Friday.

Lee Kyung-chul, the government's special representative for Middle East peace and special representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan, made the remarks during an open debate session titled "Advancing Political Solutions in the Middle East" at the UNSC on Wednesday.

The special envoy said that the situation in the Middle East, which continues to affect not only the region but also the broader international community, underscores the importance of the principle of peaceful conflict resolution.

He stressed the need to prioritize the protection of civilians and uphold international law to prevent the further escalation of tensions while also highlighting Seoul's Middle East initiative, named "Shine," unveiled in November 2025.

Lee also held separate talks with officials from China, Pakistan, Britain, France, Russia and Nepal, as well as senior UN officials, including Rosemary DiCarlo, the under secretary general of the UN Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, to exchange views on developments in the Middle East, Afghanistan and other major international issues.

Yonhap