(SFRY): Message to South Korea

[SM99]

Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia
Brotherhood and Unity

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PRIVATE - CLASSIFIED - ENCRYPTED

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EMAIL

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South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs,

We have been closely monitoring and welcome your growing influence on the international stage. Yugoslavia wishes to build and develop a strong lasting relationship with your nation. I feel that it would be best to arrange for an official video conference.

Thank you
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia

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Jay

 

[Jay]

To: Yugoslav Ministry of Foreign Affairs <@SM99 > BCC: Leebaekjung@mofa.kr.gov

From: Parkwonsup@mofa.kr.gov

Subject: RE: Yugoslav Diplomatic Outreach

Security: Private and encrypted Protected by the NIS and MoFA DPB

To Whom it may concern at the Yugoslav Ministry of Foreign Affairs,

The Republic of Korea is hopeful to restart diplomatic relations with the SFR Yugoslavia, and we hope that stability in the Balkans will restore the regions progress and stability. We continue to monitor the situation in the region and we applaud Yugoslavia's commitment to the independence of post-Yugoslav states and pursing its disputes through international law and peacefully. The Republic of Korea is eager to re-open its Embassy in Belgrade, and we hope to cooperate with the Yugoslav Embassy in Seoul.

The Republic of Korea hopes Yugoslavia will act as a strong partner in Korea's efforts to ensure the limitation of North Korea's financial and military capacity and act as an agent of peace to support the peaceful reunification of the Korean Peninsula. We hope that Yugoslavia will continue to push reforms and efforts to develop and modernize their country. We further hope Korea can act as an agent for development for Yugoslavia to assist and advise where capable.


Signed with sincerity,
H.E. Ambassador Park Wonsup
Ambassador of the Rep. of Korea to Croatia
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
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Republic of Korea
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
All information is protected from release by the Diplomatic Communications Security Act 1997
Authorized viewing is limited to those directly emailed, cc'd, and bcc'd​

 

[SM99]

Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia
Brotherhood and Unity

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PRIVATE - CLASSIFIED - ENCRYPTED

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EMAIL

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South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs,

Yugoslavia welcomes your response. We agree completely that we can form a mutually beneficial relationship.

We'd like to suggest a video call with the RoK Minister of Foreign Affairs to establish a new foreign agreement in which we can include the reopening of embassies among other economic and military agreements. On the matters of North Korea, I can assure you that you have the full support of Yugoslavia. They are only communists in name and we do not support tyrannical and oppressive governments.

Thank you
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia

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Jay

 

[Jay]

To: Yugoslav Ministry of Foreign Affairs BCC: Leebaekjung@mofa.kr.gov

From: Parkwonsup@mofa.kr.gov

Subject: RE: Yugoslav Diplomatic Outreach

Security: Private and encrypted Protected by the NIS and MoFA DPB

To Whom it may concern at the Yugoslav Ministry of Foreign Affairs,



The Republic of Korea is reassured by the statements of the Yugoslav Government and we hope to see these words into action over the coming years as we gradually develop a relationship between our two countries. The Foreign Minister is currently in Bangkok and is unfortunately pre-occupied with a scheduled number of calls with the American, Spanish, and Rattanakosin Government. As the Ambassador-responsible for Yugoslavia, I would be able to take a flight from Zagreb to Belgrade. The current situation in Russia has us very much concerned, we hope it is okay to bring five diplomatic security agents armed with submarine guns and handguns. An in-person meeting would be very beneficial and allow us to get a stronger understanding for our policies and ideals.

Please let me know how this sounds, and we look forward to your response.


Signed with sincerity,
H.E. Ambassador Park Wonsup
Ambassador of the Rep. of Korea to Croatia
Ministry of Foreign Affairs

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Republic of Korea
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
All information is protected from release by the Diplomatic Communications Security Act 1997
Authorized viewing is limited to those directly emailed, cc'd, and bcc'd​

 

[SM99]

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PRIVATE - ENCRYPTED - CLASSIFIED

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EMAIL

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South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Thank you for your response. We look forward to your arrival. I have informed our border agency of the ambassadors expected arrival. Upon arrival you will be escorted by a partisan detachment straight to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs office.

We hope that this is the beginning of a great relationship between our two nations. We eagerly await your arrival!

Thank you,
Ministry of Foreign Affairs

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[Jay]

To: Yugoslav Ministry of Foreign Affairs BCC: Leebaekjung@mofa.kr.gov

From: Parkwonsup@mofa.kr.gov

Subject: RE: Yugoslav Diplomatic Outreach

Security: Private and encrypted Protected by the NIS and MoFA DPB

To Whom it may concern at the Yugoslav Ministry of Foreign Affairs,

Our Embassy has made the arrangement to arrive tomorrow at 11:25 am at Belgrade, with a return flight booked for two days after at 3:45 pm in the afternoon. I look forward to seeing you in Belgrade.

Signed with sincerity,
H.E. Ambassador Park Wonsup
Ambassador of the Rep. of Korea to Croatia
Ministry of Foreign Affairs

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Republic of Korea
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
All information is protected from release by the Diplomatic Communications Security Act 1997
Authorized viewing is limited to those directly emailed, cc'd, and bcc'd

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The Korean Ambassador would arrive in Belgrade a little earlier than schedule, arriving at 11:20. The flight was not too packed and he was able to exit the plane in fashionable time with his aides including a translator, a regional policy advisor from the Embassy in Zagreb, and five security officers. Recent concerns in Russia had raised the entire European diplomatic security level ensuring all Ambassadors had larger security oversight and not taking unnecessary trips. Upon arriving in Belgrade he would see the partisan detachment and would greet them before following them.

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[SM99]

Life went on as usual in Belgrade. The news of the demonstrations and financial crisis in Russia had everyone on edge but its consequences had yet to come into fruition. The airport was less busier than usual. The Korean Ambassador was escorted by the assigned partisans and swiftly through the immigration control. Upon reaching the arrivals section, the Korean ambassador would be introduced to Major Nikola Brazovic of the Partisan Corps.

He would greet the Ambassador with a big smile and a firm handshake. He would momentarily look at the translator and then in Serbian he would say "Mr. Ambassador! Welcome to Belgrade! I am Major Brazovic of the Partisan Corps, I will be taking care of you during your stay here in Belgrade. We are expected at the office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs. Afterwards, we have some other members of our state institutions who would like to have an audience with you. Other than that if there is anything else you would like to see in Belgrade do not hesitate to ask me! You are in one of the most iconic and historic cities of Europe!"

The Major would lead the Ambassador to a Mercedes G63 parked at the arrivals section at the airport. The Ambassador would be seated in the G63 with the Major and his driver. All remaining aides would take a seat in an additional 3 E250S parked at the airport. These vehicles are a part of the Partisans VIP Fleet.

They would then head straight to the office of the Foreign Minister.

Jay

 

[Jay]

The Ambassador would put on his scarf as the Belgrade cool and winds crashed against him. He took in the scenery, Belgrade was nothing like Zagreb, yet, there was a distinct smell that emulated the two together. He could not put an image behind it, but, it was a distinct smell. The translator, a younger man who had studied Serbian while stationed at the Embassy during the Yugoslav days in the late 1980s, picked up a copy of a newspaper as they checked in through the immigration control. Reading up on how the Yugoslav press had discussed the situation in Moscow, he would move to the Ambassador to speak to him softly. "Ambassador, the news here indicates their President is still in Moscow during these times. Its possible...he is not in a position to run the affairs of state...So we may be dealing with someone else...or some other factions here in Belgrade." the Ambassador nodded, after their credentials were checked and his staff moved through the Embassy. After passing through the immigration control and their security personnel officially checked and employing their weapons, they moved to the arrival section where he was received by Major Brazovic. The translator listened and simultaneously provided translations to the Ambassador. "Thank you Major, I look forward to the duration of my stay. Please, let us not keep your government waiting." the delegation left and arrived at the convoy, the Ambassador, his translator, and the female regional policy advisor and the Yugoslav Major would enter the G63, while his security would ride in the other vehicles.

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[SM99]

They would arrive at the Palace of Serbia, which was the government headquarters and houses various Ministries and state owned institutions. The vehicles would pull up directly in front of the palace, and Capt Brozovic would promptly exit the vehicle and open the door for the Ambassador. He would then lead them to the office of the Foreign Minister for behind closed doors and private meeting.

FM Zoran Stankovic looked visibly stressed as he had just come back from a confidential national security council meeting regarding the events unfolding in Russia. He did his best to act calm and greet the Korean Ambassador.

"Welcome to Belgrade! I was eagerly awaiting your response. Hope you had a comfortable flight. How is your tenure in Croatia?" The FM would start by making some small talk before getting to the main talking points.

"Mr. Ambassador, I wish we could have met during less chaotic times. The situation in Russia has concerned us deeply. Luckily, due to our government and economical set up, and being somewhat self reliant, we have yet to face the consequences of the financial crisis.

Im sure you must have seen the news regarding the outbreak of violence in Moscow. Our President is there among other diplomats. We pray for their safety. I would like to ensure you that we are adequately prepared for any outcome. Yugoslavs are proud and resilient people. Our President especially is a strong man.

What is your view on the situation? I must say I am somewhat sympathetic to the Russian people. Do not get me wrong I do not condone any violence. But lets not ignore the MASSIVE Russian deficit. The capitalist and free market forces led to mismanagement of funds which did not benefit the Russian people at all. If the government fails to serve its people, its workers. Then it is a failure and must be held accountable by its people."

Jay

 

[Jay]

The Ambassador would view the street life of the city during the mid-afternoon time, not seeing anything abnormal. After passing mostly business and schools on the way to the Government district, they pulled up to the building, the Ambassador put on his scarf against and gloves as the Captain opened the door. The Ambassador stood outside the Foreign Ministry while his translator and aides came out after him, he observed the other government ministries before being guided into the building by the Captain. His security would follow them as they entered the building, when they arrived at the private room, the agents stood outside while the translator and aides joined the Ambassador inside. The Ambassador noticing the Foreign Minister was a little stressed, and his desk showed it was not in the best of states, but the Ambassador paid no attention to it shaking hands with the Foreign Minister before sitting down with him. romptly "Thank you Foreign Minister, it is a pleasure to be here in Belgrade. Smiling being courteous of his guest, even though he had preferred Zagreb, he maintained his diplomatic decorum. "The flight was comfortable, nothing special. Things are well in Croatia, I have enjoyed my tenure and Croatian people have been very hospitable and kind.' After some more small talk, the Foreign Minister directed the conversation to European affairs. xi"The situation in Russia is extremely concerning...Foreign Minister, if I may speak frankly...who is in charge in Belgrade at the moment. Considering your President's status is Moscow is to our knowledge unknown. I only ask as we are extremely concerned for the safety and wellbeing of your President and other Yugoslav government officials. The Republic of Korea is extremely concerned with the situation, but also, if world leaders and government officials are being held hostage in Moscow, how that affects stability in other states. I have no doubt on the Yugoslav people's resilience, however, I believe you can understand Korea's concerns with Europe... the Ambassador would pause before responding to the last question, thinking for a moment..I distinguish between the Russian people and the insurrectionists who are taking the opportunity over the hardship of the Russian people. The Russian deficit was a structural problem since the Soviet Union, and even Tsarist Russia before it suffered from. Continued overspending is an issue that Russia needs to be forced to shake off, and that is Korea's view. However, I disagree with you Minister respectfully. Capitalism and the free market did not lead to the mismanagement of funds, it was the lack of implementation of capital injections into the Russian people who were generally worse off financially in real and disposable income. Because people didn't have money, and the Soviet-era elites with the money would steal State assets without foreign competition to force competitive pricing, and the system of nepotism was institutionalized. I agree with you however, when a government fails its citizens, then it must be held accountable to its people. However, you know as well as I do, that was not the case in Soviet Russia. Still, I wish to better understand Yugoslavia's position on Russia, and how communism could alleviate their problems."

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[SM99]

"Mr. Ambassador, I hope we have not started on the wrong foot.

Yes, President Milosevic is in Moscow. Yes his current situation is unclear. However for us at the moment, it is business as usual. That may come as a surprise to you but what other option do we have? We are not going to declare a state of emergency in our own country, there is nothing for us to do that would change the lives of everyday Yugoslavs.

Do not get me wrong, of course we are EXTREMELY concerned for the Presidents well being. We have explored options for the absolute worst case scenarios and we are prepared. I know that the President himself would approve of this. Our Prime Minister is here in Belgrade and in charge of matters until the Presidents return. If something were to happen to the President, I assure you we are prepared. The League of Communists, which is made up of all political parties in Yugoslavia, is in session as we speak. Our Federal Assembly is in session as well to discuss measures to protect the Yugoslav people against the financial crisis. No individual is bigger than the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. We are a resilient people, we are strong, proud and not afraid of any such events as you see going on right now. It is business as usual for us.

I am not going to sit here and advocate for communism. That was not the point of my comment and it is not my place to force such a world view on other nations. As it is, our society and government is socialist. We simply serve our workers and constituents. We are not advocating for a return of Soviet Russia. We will however speak out against any government that neglects its workers and its people. It is true that this ineffecient spending was present in Soviet Russia as well. However we feel that Russias situation is a perfect case of capitalism enabling such extreme overspending never seen before, whilst none of it went towards the welfare of their citizens.

Again, it is not our place to INTEREFERE or FORCE such a view, but we have every right to speak out on the matter.

Anywho, I hope that this Russia situation does not become the crux of our conversation today. It would be quite unfortunate if we failed to progress over any disagreements on this matter. I really feel that there is great potential for a strong relationship between us. We are very interested in strengthening diplomatic relations, forming economic partnerships and working towards development in both our nations. We also want to expand our cultural exchange and feel that we can both benefit from this. We have plans to start an international cultural exchange program, to boost tourism worldwide. South Koreas help on this initiative would be of great help."


Jay

 

[Jay]

"I apologize if I seemed out of place Foreign Minister, please, be assured I did not harbor or receive any misfoooting between us. Please, I hope I did not get off on the wrong foot with you either and apologize to you if I had. I believe frank conversations are what we need...as diplomats if we hide our sentiments we only cause problems in the future. Please, always consider that as a temporary Ambassador to your country, I am always here to have conversations like this with you and please never consider that they would imply negatively on our two countries. We can differ on opinions, policy, and views as we do with all our international partners.

I âme xtremely glad to hear things are running accordingly here in Belgrade. To be quiet honest, our government was concerned about the political stability of Yugoslavia with the current situation in Russia and your President. The current situation is Russia is unfortunate...but completely avoidable. If only the international community could've acted more quicker. Yet, we are here, and must work with what we have. I hope for the continued resilience of the Yugoslav people and their quest for justice and a dignified life. c

Our Governments may differ with how we perceive the effects in Russia, however, I hope you share our sentiment that the violence must end and that we must restore calm to Russia. This political racketeering will only prolong the crisis. I agree with your right to speak out on this manner, but I also hope the Yugoslav Government understands the impact of its voice in the void of the communist globe, and how easily communist sentiments in former East Germany could react or how it could push North Korea to take provocative steps. Already, communists have attempted to storm India's government, and there is high reason to suspect communists were behind the assassination of the Ukrainian President. I do not seek to imply silence in the your perception of the plight and negligence of the workers and people.

I do agree with you, the issues in Russia should be issues discussed between ministers and government heads. We should focus on pushing a strong bilateral relationship. Which is why I must discuss much more...delicate topics. Primarily, our governments concern over the human rights violations committed by Serb forces and hope that Yugoslavia has taken efforts domestically to charge and hold responsible all those responsible for the killing, raping, and heinous crimes against the Bosnian people. Whilst, this is a matter we intend to keep private, we hope your government will continue to take steps that hold their forces accountable and pave the ground for a Yugoslavia based on principled policies and human rights.

We are ready to provide financial assistance, technical assistance, and political support towards your goals that align with our values and visions. I hope that we can strengthen our diplomatic relations and open up trade between our countries. The idea of the ICEP is very interesting, perhaps you could explain it more Minster?

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[SM99]

"Dont worry for being frank Mr. Ambassador! I would encourage you to do so. I completely agree that at times diplomats are very abstract when they communicate and I assure you that there is no ill feelings from my end and I am glad that you speak openly with you, and I hope you expect the same from me. No nation will ever be in complete agreement, there will always be disagreements and that is completely fine because we all have our own experiences and interests. That is part of a healthy global community, to have disagreements and find common ground.

May I ask you to expand on what you mean by the international community could have acted quicker? Do you mean in regard to the Russian deficit and intervening in order to prevent a financial crisis? In that case I completely agree but I also feel that it is not the job to the GA to control every nations spending, and whilst in this case it is for good use, in the future I hope that it does not set precedent for abuse.

We will always speak out if we feel people are being neglected, especially the workers whom in our view should be a nations priority and the class that should have the most power. So for the Russians, their government has failed them, and if legitimate representatives of their workers and peoples require assistance then why should Yugoslavia deny them that help? Of course we do not condone violence. We will never condone violence. Peaceful dialogue is required for change."

The Foreign Minister would get a little awkward when the Ambassador spoke about recognizing crimes during the Bosnian wars. He would do his best to remain absolutely calm and to not show any signs of vulnerability.

"Hmm." He would not at those comments. "Mr. Ambassador, if there is such evidence of crimes committed by the JNA, then Im sure our courts will look into it. I do not personally know of any such criminals walking free in Yugoslavia. If they exist, then of course we will bring them to justice." The Minister would pause and confidently say "Mr. Ambassador, there are bad apples on each side as Im sure you'd know. I appreciate your concern on these matters and welcome efforts from international players to seek out accountability and justice on the global stage. Do your views stay the same about such criminals in Bosnia or even Kosovo? The entire Kosovar government is made up of individuals part of the KLA, a terrorist organisation. They are responsible for desecrating our holy sites and massacring our people as well. Please do not take me the wrong way, but international partners always ask us what we will do about crimes committed by us yet they have no interest when it comes to Kosovo. Their entire government is made up of KLA members, they openly say this. They massacred serbs in the Kosovo region and destroyed our heritage. Should Yugoslavia also pursue this in an international court would we have your support?"

"This ICEP concept is in the barebones right now. We are thinking of founding an organization like a world expo. Where biannually it is hosted in multiple nations where they showcase their commerce, trade, economy, culture, history and so on. It would be a great initiative to encourage global peace and understanding. It would also be a great boost of tourism and a good boost to the hosting economies. It would also encourage nations to invest in their country, and maintain their nation. Upon founding this organization, we can have nations register and bid for hosting where it is voted on. This is all a barebones concept right now, nothing is in writing or confirmed. I want to hear what your government thinks, if they're interested then we can take this further at a future date.

We haven't told this to anyone else except you. We see your influence growing on the international stage, we see the good work you're doing. Our government wants South Korea to be a partner with us for this project."

 

[SM99]

Jay

 

[Jay]

"The time it took to introduce, debate, and discuss the resolution to assist Russia was extended much longer than needed. Adding onto that, the warnings given were largely ignored. Our diplomatic office was coordinating information as part of a wider European monitoring effort, and unfortunately, it did not react quickly. And Foreign Minister, I disagree, I think that it is not about controlling how nations spend, but that we need to be committed as a global community to be responsible. Deficits, surplus, whatever it is, it must be in appropriate margins. Having two, even three cycles of recession or capital outflow is much different than a sustained capital outflow left unaddressed. I agree, we should not set a precedent for abuse, but we should not allow this crisis to repeat just to suffer the same consequences. While this is Yugoslavia's prerogative in its foreign policy, the Republic of Korea will continue to defend and assist our fellow democratic state from all forms of insurrection, and that we can never compromise over. We likewise do not condone violence, but neither do we condone the brainwashing of people to topple democratically elected governments. I am happy to hear about your response about the actions of your government to reprimand the genocidal officers within your armed forces. Whilst I do not want the Yugoslav Wars to dominate our discussion, I must be very clear on where Korea stands. With regards to the atrocities committed in the Yugoslav Wars, the Republic of Korea strongly condemns them all, and will assist those who work towards the justice and truth. I would remind your government, just as we offer to work with Yugoslav regardless of ideological, human rights, and other differences, we offer the same courtesy to the Kosovo Government. However, when it comes to crimes, there is no overlooking it, and our Government supports all efforts to address the concerns. I'd equally remind Yugoslavia that the Serb Paramilitaries it employed committed unspeakable levels of atrocities and massacres including forced deportations and attacking of Kosovar and their religious and cultural institutions. The Ambassador personally remembering the atrocities of the Japanese colonizers against Korea in raping and pillaging the countryside, stealing their women, and oppressing the Korean people in all manners. "Nonetheless, we do not believe in hypocrisy in our foreign affairs, and like we will continue to do with you, we will ensure that our representatives in Kosovo are informed of our positions. I am certain my government would be happy to partner with Yugoslavia to support the ICEP efforts. We are interested to see this through and are happy to work with Yugoslavia on it. I will inform the Minister of this, and I am certain she will be supportive of it. I hope we can be strong partners as well Minister."

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[SM99]

"Very well Mr. Ambassador.

Lets talk about the ICEP at a future date in more detail. Are ready to officially reopen diplomatic relations? We are also interested in exploring some trade options.

As per GA resolutions, we can set up at Embassy in Seoul, whilst we shall make space for a ROK Embassy here in Belgrade. We can explore a free trade agreement and some visa related issues for our citizens. What do you say? This will be the beginning of a great relationship I hope!"

Jay

 

[Jay]

"Our government look forward to seeing the ICEP and its development. We are always happy to assist in the technical drafting of the ICEP as well. With regards to the Embassy, our government is willing make plans to re-open the Embassy in Belgrade, and we are host a new diplomatic delegation from Yugoslavia at the former Serbian Embassy. If you are content with this of course. We are happy to explore a trade agreement, and lay the foundations for visa-restrictions to be lowered in the future."

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