▲ South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun is seen in this photo provided by his ministry. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

S Korea-Saudi-FMs

S. Korea seeks Saudi's cooperation for steady oil supply in foreign ministers' call

SEOUL, March 13 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's foreign minister on Friday asked for Saudi Arabia's cooperation to ensure a steady supply of crude oil during a phone call with his Saudi counterpart as disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz severely threaten global energy supply chains, Seoul's foreign ministry said.

Foreign Minister Cho Hyun and Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan discussed the Middle East crisis during their telephone conversation.

Iran has attacked commercial ships in the Persian Gulf and halted cargo traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial oil shipping route, in response to U.S. and Israeli strikes that began Feb. 28. Tehran has also targeted oil fields and refineries in Gulf Arab nations, aiming to generate enough global economic pain to pressure the United States and Israel to end their strikes.

During the call, Cho asked for Riyadh's support in maintaining stable oil supplies to South Korea, which relies on Saudi Arabia as its largest crude oil supplier.

Faisal told Cho that recent Iranian attacks have damaged civilian and energy facilities in Saudi Arabia, causing significant losses for Gulf countries, and asked for Seoul's understanding and support.

Cho expressed "deep concern" over the regional damage to civilians and energy infrastructure, conveying sympathy and solidarity.

He also thanked Riyadh for helping ensure the safe return of South Korean nationals and agreed to continue coordinating emergency countermeasures, including additional flights from Riyadh to Incheon.

Around 2,700 South Koreans currently reside in Saudi Arabia, the ministry said.

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