SEOUL — While visiting New York to attend the high-level segment of the 81st United Nations General Assembly, South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun held successive meetings with four candidates for the next UN Secretary-General to discuss ways to strengthen UN-centered multilateralism and cooperation.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the 21st (local time), Minister Cho met separately with Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, Guyana's Permanent Representative to the UN, and Rebeca Grynspan, Secretary-General of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) from Costa Rica, on the 19th.

This was followed by meetings with María Fernanda Espinosa, former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ecuador, on the 20th, and Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) from Argentina, on the 21st.

During the meetings, Minister Cho emphasized that strengthening UN-centered multilateralism is essential to address pressing international issues, such as prolonged armed conflicts.

To achieve this, he stated that the UN must transform into a more effective and accountable organization, noting the crucial role of the next UN Secretary-General.

He also asked the candidates to pay close attention to and support the expansion of South Korean nationals joining the UN workforce.

The candidates responded that UN reform requires leadership with a deep understanding of the UN system alongside broad support from member states.

Furthermore, the candidates noted that South Korea, as a middle power that has consistently contributed to the international community, can play a vital role in building consensus among member states and broadening support for reforms, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

As the current term of UN Secretary-General António Guterres concludes this year, procedures are underway to elect his successor. Following the withdrawal of former Chilean President Michelle Bachelet from the race the previous day, a total of seven candidates are currently competing for the position.

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