The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, sent a cable of condolences to His Excellency President Lee Jae-myung, President of the Republic of Korea, on the death of former Prime Minister Lee Hae-chan, expressing his deep sorrow at this news.
The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' telegram contained heartfelt words reflecting the depth of the human and diplomatic relations between the two countries. King Salman said, "We received the news of the passing of the former Prime Minister of the Republic of Korea, Mr. Lee Hae-chan, and we extend to Your Excellency, the family of the deceased, and your friendly people our deepest condolences and sincere sympathy, wishing you continued well-being." This telegram is part of the ongoing communication between the Saudi leadership and the leaders of friendly nations on various occasions.
Condolences and sympathy from the Crown Prince
In the same context, His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, sent a similar cable of condolences to His Excellency President Lee Jae-myung, President of the Republic of Korea, on the death of the former Prime Minister.
In his telegram, His Royal Highness the Crown Prince expressed his sincere condolences to the leadership and people of Korea, saying: “I received the news of the passing of former Prime Minister of the Republic of Korea, Mr. Lee Hae-chan, and I extend to Your Excellency and the entire family of the deceased my deepest condolences and sincere sympathy, wishing you continued health and well-being, and that you may be spared any harm.” This message underscores His Royal Highness the Crown Prince’s keen interest in strengthening the bonds of friendship and mutual respect with the Republic of Korea.
The depth of Saudi-Korean relations
These royal condolences underscore the strength of the historical ties between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Republic of Korea, ties that have spanned decades of fruitful cooperation. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 1962, the partnership has witnessed remarkable development across various political, economic, and cultural fields. The Kingdom views Korea as a key strategic partner, particularly in light of Vision 2030, which opens up vast opportunities for cooperation in the energy, infrastructure, technology, and advanced industries sectors.
Dimensions of humanitarian diplomacy
The exchange of condolences between the Saudi leadership and world leaders reflects an important aspect of Saudi diplomacy, which extends beyond political and economic interests to encompass humanitarian and social dimensions. Sharing the grief of friendly nations over the loss of prominent national figures, such as former prime ministers who served their countries, is a cornerstone of Saudi diplomatic protocol, characterized by its nobility and loyalty. This reinforces the Kingdom's position as a pivotal nation, held in high esteem and respect by the international community.

