Germany has announced that it will not reopen its embassy in North Korea due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. A government official stated that the conflict complicates any diplomatic efforts, particularly given North Korea’s support for Russia. Meanwhile, several other nations have resumed their diplomatic presence in North Korea.
Germany has decided not to reopen its embassy in North Korea amidst the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, as communicated by a German official on Tuesday. The official, speaking anonymously, indicated that the situation concerning the conflict and North Korea’s involvement in Ukraine makes embassy reopening untenable.
Many European countries, including Germany, Britain, and Sweden, closed their diplomatic missions in North Korea due to COVID-19 restrictions in early 2020. Germany had initially considered reopening its embassy; however, a recent visit by a German diplomat for inspections in February 2024 appears insufficient in altering the current stance.
North Korea has supported Russian military efforts against Ukraine, heightening tensions. In response, Germany joined the U.S.-led United Nations Command last August, which oversees the armistice from the Korean War. North Korea subsequently condemned this action, claiming it jeopardizes peace on the Korean Peninsula.
The German official reiterated, “As long as the conflict (in Ukraine) is ongoing, we will not open (the embassy).” While Sweden reinstated its embassy diplomats in September 2022, Poland and Switzerland have also resumed diplomatic activities within North Korea. Currently, 15 foreign embassies, including those from Brazil, Iran, India, Nigeria, and Nicaragua, operate in North Korea, as reported by the South Korean unification ministry.
In conclusion, Germany remains firm on its decision not to reopen its embassy in North Korea while Russia’s war against Ukraine persists. The involvement of North Korea in supporting Russian actions has led to increased diplomatic tensions. Despite some Western nations resuming diplomatic relations with North Korea, Germany’s position is clear, emphasizing the challenges posed by ongoing geopolitical conflicts.
Original Source: www.koreatimes.co.kr
