The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has appointed Sanjeev Jain as India's next Ambassador to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), commonly referred to as North Korea. Jain, a 2008-batch Indian Foreign Service officer, currently serves as India's Ambassador to the Republic of Cabo Verde. He is expected to assume his new role shortly, according to an official MEA statement released on Monday.
Succession and Diplomatic Background
Jain will succeed Aliawati Longkumer, who was appointed as Ambassador to North Korea on June 16, 2025. The MEA has described India-North Korea relations as generally characterized by friendship, cooperation, and understanding. Consular relations between the two countries were established in March 1962, followed by the opening of the Consulate General of India in North Korea in 1968. Diplomatic relations at the embassy level were formalized on December 10, 1973.
Historical Role in Korean Peninsula
Following the 1950-1953 Korean War, India played a significant role as chair of the United Nations-formed Neutral Nations Repatriation Commission, a nine-member body. The commission, led by Major General K S Thimayya, was highly appreciated for its work in facilitating the exchange of prisoners of war. India continues to support efforts for peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula through dialogue and diplomacy.
India's Stance on Nuclear Tests and Dialogues
The MEA has previously urged North Korea to refrain from nuclear and ballistic missile tests to reduce tensions. India welcomed the inter-Korean summits held at Panmunjom in April 2018 and in Pyongyang in September 2018, as well as the historic summits between U.S. President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un in Singapore on June 12, 2018, and in Hanoi on February 27-28, 2019. India expressed hope that such engagements would help reduce tensions and pave the way for lasting peace and reconciliation.
Foreign Office Consultations
Regular exchanges on bilateral issues of mutual interest occur through Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) between India and North Korea. The appointment of Jain underscores India's continued diplomatic engagement with the DPRK amid ongoing regional dynamics.
