Nigeria plans to reopen its embassy in North Korea after a prolonged closure caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. This makes Nigeria the first African country to resume diplomatic activities there. The reopening follows the recent trend of several nations reinstating their diplomatic ties with North Korea after border reopenings in August 2023.
Nigeria is preparing to reopen its embassy in North Korea after a prolonged closure due to the Covid-19 pandemic. This announcement was made by Patrick Imodu Imologhome, Nigeria’s charge d’affaires, during a meeting with Alexandr Matsegora, the Russian Ambassador to North Korea. The reopening positions Nigeria as the first African nation to resume diplomatic activities in North Korea since the onset of the pandemic. Currently, only Nigeria and Egypt have a diplomatic presence in the North Asian country.
The establishment of diplomatic relations between North Korea and Nigeria dates back to 1976. However, there are ongoing suspicions regarding potential military trade or business dealings between the two nations, which would contravene U.N. sanctions against North Korea. With the recent reopening of North Korea’s borders in August 2023, several countries, including China, Russia, Mongolia, and Cuba, have reinstated their diplomatic missions in Pyongyang. Furthermore, Nicaragua recently opened an embassy, while Sweden became the first Western nation to restore its presence in North Korea in September.
The reopening of Nigeria’s embassy in North Korea marks a significant diplomatic gesture, especially considering the lengthy suspension due to the Covid-19 pandemic. This development is notable within the context of increased diplomatic activities as North Korea seeks to re-engage with the international community after years of strict border closures. The historical backdrop of Nigeria’s diplomatic relations with North Korea since 1976 adds further significance to the reopening, especially amid allegations of illicit trade activities between the two countries.
In summary, Nigeria is reinstating its diplomatic presence in North Korea, making it the pioneering African state to do so post-Covid-19. This decision reflects a broader trend of countries gradually reestablishing diplomatic ties with North Korea following its border reopenings. With Nigeria and Egypt being the sole African nations with embassies in the North, this move could influence future diplomatic engagements in the region.
Original Source: koreajoongangdaily.joins.com
