In 2021, there was an atmosphere of uncertainty around the world due to the COVID-19 pandemic. During this period, India had temporarily closed its embassy located in Pyongyang, the capital of North Korea. Indian diplomats were forced to return to the country due to strict travel restrictions imposed during the pandemic, health risks and global instability.
Now, almost two years later, India has once again started operating its embassy in North Korea. This step is not only important towards reviving diplomatic relations, but it also raises many questions from the diplomatic point of view.
How is the Indian Embassy being run?
The functioning of the Indian Embassy in North Korea has started. According to reports, Second Secretary level officers and other staff are currently working in the embassy. However, the appointment of the ambassador is still pending.
The Ministry of External Affairs has given a statement in this regard that “The Embassy is currently fully staffed and carrying out its regular functions.” The ministry also clarified that it may take some more time to fully establish the functionality of the embassy.
Reasons behind embassy closure
When India decided to close the embassy in 2021, the Covid-19 pandemic was at its peak. North Korea had completely banned foreign contacts. Due to health risks and limited resources, it had become necessary to recall the Indian diplomats.
During the pandemic, North Korea’s ambassador to India, Choe Hui Chol, continued his duties. This shows that the two countries did not completely stop diplomatic contacts.
Status of relations with North Korea
Relations between India and North Korea have been changing from time to time. In 2017, India stopped most economic transactions with North Korea in compliance with UN sanctions. Despite this, limited diplomatic dialogue continued between the two countries.
The reopening of the Indian Embassy in North Korea comes after Sweden and Poland. Both these countries have also recently reopened their embassies.
Meaning of diplomacy and politics
Analysts believe that the reopening of the embassy in Pyongyang by India is an important step. This step may indicate that India wants to give a new direction to its diplomatic relations with North Korea.
North Korea plays a complex role in global politics. Kim Jong Un’s regime is not only known for its strict rules, but his nuclear programs are also always in the news.
Is there any strategic advantage for India?
The reopening of the Indian Embassy in North Korea carries several strategic messages:
- Involvement in regional stability: With this step, India can show its contribution towards ensuring stability in the Asia-Pacific region.
- Role in Global Diplomacy: India is preparing to walk shoulder to shoulder with countries like Sweden and Poland.
- Strategic Message: Maintaining dialogue with North Korea underlines India’s strategic role in the region.
What is the signal for North Korea?
The reopening of the Indian Embassy is also a positive message for North Korea. This step shows that India may limit its diplomatic relations with economic sanctions, but always keeps the doors open for dialogue and communication.
Challenges and future prospects
However, this move comes with several challenges:
- Communication and resource limitations: Foreign diplomatic activities in North Korea are closely monitored.
- Nuclear issue: India has always supported denuclearization, which may clash with North Korea’s policies.
- Economic Cooperation: Restoration of economic relations between India and North Korea seems a distant thing at present.
A new chapter in India-North Korea relations
The reopening of the Indian Embassy in North Korea is an important step in diplomacy and politics. This not only strengthens India’s global position, but is a positive effort towards maintaining dialogue and stability with North Korea.
In the coming times, it will be interesting to see in which direction the relations between the two countries move forward. The reopening of the Indian Embassy symbolizes that India is committed to striking a balance between global diplomatic challenges.
