Salam!

Your Excellency Ambassador Saeed Koozechi, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,

I am delighted to stand before you today in celebration of the 45th anniversary of the National Day of the Islamic Republic of Iran. I would like to express my sincere congratulations to H.E. Ambassador Saeed Koozechi and the people of Iran.

Before I begin, I extend my deepest condolences to the victims and their bereaved families regarding the explosion in Kerman. The current unstable situation in the Middle East has unfortunately led to heartbreaking incidents that have resulted in many civilian casualties. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea immediately issued a statement condemning the explosion in Kerman and expressed deep condolences and consolation to the Iranian people. I myself also visited the Iranian Embassy in Seoul to sign the condolence book and conveyed my utmost sympathies and consolation to Ambassador Koozechi.

During that visit, I told the Ambassador that I hoped to see him again on a more pleasant occasion next time. I am glad to be here today to commemorate the Iranian National Day and celebrate the friendship between Korea and Iran since 1962. Distinguished guests, Although our diplomatic relations is about 60 years old, Korea and Iran have a long history of interaction for over a thousand years dating back to the Silla Dynasty via the Silk Road and sea routes. Our two nations share a history of overcoming adversities and a history of revival, and also share traditional virtues that value family and honor our elders.

Moreover, over 20,000 Koreans worked in Iran’s construction field during so called ‘the Middle East Boom’ in the 1970’s, which significantly contributed to the development of bilateral relations and the growth of the economy of our nations.

In 1977, we named streets in Seoul and Tehran, “Tehran Boulevard” and “Seoul street,” respectively, as a symbol of our friendship. Tehran Boulevard is the only road in Seoul named after a foreign city.

Although there have been ups and downs in our relations, the long history of exchanges and strong bonds between our people have allowed our two countries to continuously develop a friendship. In particular, since we’ve finally resolved the long pending issue between Korea and Iran last year, we held the first-ever meeting between the president’s spouses on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, as well as a meeting between our foreign ministers. At these meetings, Korea and Iran agreed to expand cooperation in various fields, including academia, culture, environment, and sports.

As part of this cooperation, I visited Tehran in September last year to attend the International Conference on Combating Sand and Dust Storm, as our two nations share a common interest in improving air quality. During my meeting with the Vice President in charge of environment and the Deputy Foreign Minister, I was able to see firsthand the willingness and potential for cooperation between Korea and Iran. Once again, I deeply appreciate the hospitality from the Iranian side during my visit.

I believe that there is a great potential for bilateral cooperation in the field of culture as well. This year, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs sponsored the Persian Speaking competition for the first time. I heard that the students who participated in the competiton hosted by Hankuk University of Foreign Studies visited historic Iranian cities such as Isfahan and Shiraz under the sponsorship of the university and companies. I am sure that this interest in Iranian culture and language by Korean students will lay the foundation for cultural collaboration between our two countries.

Today’s reception has a significant meaning as we can reflect back upon our friendship and reaffirm the potential for future cooperation. In particular, I would like to thank Ambassador Koozechi for organizing this event and his tireless efforts in fostering our bilateral relations. I’ve had several meetings with him, and he is always pondering about potential areas Korea and Iran can work together. I have no doubt that the relations between Korea and Iran will continue to improve based on his dedication. My government will also be committed to working with the Iranian Embassy to look for ways to further strengthen the relationship.

Once again, many congratulations on the 45th anniversary of Iran’s national day. Thank you. Merci.