Congratulatory Remarks
Korea Congress in Russia
Park Byeong-seug
Speaker of the National Assembly
Republic of Korea
I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations on the opening of the 「Korea Congress in Russia」 held to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the establishment of the diplomatic relationship between the Republic of Korea and the Russian Federation. Let me offer my deep gratitude to the Co-Presidents of the Congress, Lee Bu-young and Sohn Kyung-shik, Chairman of the Organizing Committee Rhee Tshangchu, and other officials for their efforts to organize this significant event. I would also like to extend my warm greetings to His Excellency Mikhail Gorbachev, former President of the Soviet Union, who will deliver a special address, movers and shakers of the international community, and distinguished guests.
The Korean Global Foundation, which holds an important international forum on an annual basis, hosts the 21st World Korea Forum at the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS) in Moscow under the theme of “New Order for Peace and Co-existence in East Asia and the Era of Eurasia” in commemoration of the 30th anniversary of the diplomatic ties between the Republic of Korea and the Russian Federation. The Forum is all the more significant in that its theme is in line with the New Northern Policy, an initiative of the Korean government aimed to promote peace on the Korean Peninsula and diversify export markets.
30 years ago, on September 30, 1990, the Republic of Korea established a diplomatic relationship with the Soviet Union, the predecessor of the Russian Federation. The de facto adversaries of the Cold War agreed to usher in the era of friendship and cooperation. It was a truly historic milestone for both of our two countries.
Since the establishment of the diplomatic ties, our bilateral relationship has developed rapidly. Exchanges and cooperation have been promoted in many areas including politics, economy, and culture. We have been expanding economic cooperation in areas such as railroads, energy sources, and ports, just to name a few. Moreover, the Hallyu, or the Korean Wave, is stronger in Russia than in any other part of the world.
Under the circumstances, the establishment of a peace regime on the Korean Peninsula would give wings to the Korean government’s New Northern Policy. I hope that the Forum will serve as the first step in our journey to advance the era of prosperity, peace and co-existence in Eurasia. I also hope that it will contribute to the creation of new frameworks for reducing tensions on the Korean Peninsula, promoting Korea-Russia relations, and establishing a new international relationship that helps to achieve balance and harmony in the multipolar era.
The National Assembly of the Republic of Korea will be with you, leading the way toward peace and prosperity on the Korean Peninsula.
Thank you very much.
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