- Federal Minister Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry lauds Korea’s remarkable economic transformation, technological advancement and development partnership with Pakistan
- Ambassador Han Sungho highlights 43 years of diplomatic relations, recalling Pakistan’s humanitarian support during the Korean War and pledging stronger bilateral cooperation
ISLAMABAD: The Embassy of the Republic of Korea hosted a grand reception at the Ambassador’s residence in Islamabad to celebrate the Korean National Foundation Day and Armed Forces Day, bringing together prominent Pakistani political leaders, diplomats, government officials, business representatives and media professionals to honour the longstanding friendship between Pakistan and South Korea.
The reception was hosted by H.E. Mr. Han Sungho, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Pakistan, and Mrs. Han Sungho.
Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs, attended the ceremony as the chief guest. Federal Minister for Investment Qaisar Ahmed Shaikh and Minister of State for Law and Human Rights Barrister Aqeel Malik were also present.
as the chief guest
The distinguished gathering included parliamentarians Isphanyar Bhandara MNA, Farah Naz Akbar MNA and Sehar Kamran Senator, alongside members of the diplomatic corps, senior officials, business leaders and representatives of the media.
The event highlighted the deep-rooted bonds of friendship between Pakistan and the Republic of Korea, while underscoring the shared commitment of both countries to expanding economic engagement, technological cooperation and people-to-people relations.
Pakistan Congratulates Korea and Praises Its Remarkable Economic Transformation
Addressing the reception, Chief Guest Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry conveyed warm felicitations to Ambassador Han Sungho on behalf of the Government and people of Pakistan on the occasion of Korea’s National Foundation Day and Armed Forces Day.
The federal minister reaffirmed that Pakistan attaches great importance to its longstanding relationship with the Republic of Korea, describing the country’s transformation from the challenges of the post-war period into a global economic and technological powerhouse as an inspiring example of national resilience and development.
He observed that Korea’s achievements reflected the importance of innovation, human capital development, strategic planning and visionary policymaking in building a modern and competitive economy.
Dr. Chaudhry emphasized that Pakistan greatly values Korea’s experience in industrial development, advanced technology, innovation, infrastructure, education and skills development. He noted that these areas offer considerable potential for expanding cooperation and supporting Pakistan’s economic modernisation.
Islamabad and Seoul Seek Stronger Trade and Investment Partnership
Highlighting the progress achieved in bilateral relations, Dr. Chaudhry said cooperation between Pakistan and South Korea had steadily expanded across political engagement, trade, investment, human resource development and people-to-people exchanges.
He expressed Pakistan’s keen interest in elevating the relationship through stronger economic and investment cooperation, enhanced business-to-business connections and expanded human resource development initiatives.
The minister also underscored the importance of ongoing efforts to strengthen the bilateral economic framework, particularly discussions concerning a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
Such an arrangement could provide an opportunity to deepen commercial engagement, facilitate greater investment and establish new avenues for mutually beneficial economic cooperation, subject to the outcome of negotiations.
Dr. Chaudhry also appreciated the development assistance extended by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), recognising Korea’s contributions to capacity-building, institutional strengthening and Pakistan’s wider development objectives.
He stressed that Korea’s practical development experience could offer valuable lessons for Pakistan as it pursues sustainable economic growth, technological advancement and a more skilled workforce.
Ambassador Han Sungho Celebrates 43 Years of Friendship and Cooperation
In his welcome address, Ambassador Han Sungho highlighted the enduring relationship between Pakistan and the Republic of Korea, noting that the two countries had worked closely together on the basis of mutual trust, respect and friendship since establishing diplomatic relations 43 years ago.
Describing the essence of the bilateral relationship, the ambassador said:
“If I were to describe the essence of this 43-year journey in a single word, it would be ‘Dosti’ – the Urdu word for true friendship.”
His remarks reflected the close people-to-people connections and longstanding goodwill that continue to underpin relations between Islamabad and Seoul.
Ambassador Han emphasised that the friendship between the two nations extended beyond the formal establishment of diplomatic ties, reaching back to a period when Korea faced extraordinary challenges during the Korean War.
Ambassador Recalls Pakistan’s Support During the Korean War
Recalling the historical foundations of bilateral friendship, Ambassador Han noted that Pakistan extended food and material assistance to the people of South Korea during the Korean War in 1950, before the two countries formally established diplomatic relations.
He described Pakistan’s early assistance as more than a diplomatic gesture, characterising it as a meaningful expression of solidarity and a shared belief in resilience and peace.
The ambassador said that the historical goodwill demonstrated by Pakistan remained an important part of the relationship between the two nations.
“Today, seeing Republic of Korea stand as a beacon of innovation, prosperity and democracy, we are fully committed to return the goodwill and support in that true spirit of Dosti,” he said.
The ambassador’s remarks underscored Seoul’s commitment to maintaining a relationship founded not only on economic interests but also on historical goodwill, mutual understanding and enduring friendship.
Korea’s Development Experience Offers Opportunities for Pakistan
South Korea’s transformation into a major global centre for manufacturing, technology and innovation provides significant opportunities for cooperation with Pakistan, particularly in industrial development, digital transformation, vocational training and human resource development.
Pakistan’s interest in learning from Korea’s development experience reflects the potential for a more practical and forward-looking partnership, connecting Korean expertise and investment with Pakistan’s economic priorities and development needs.
Through institutional cooperation, investment partnerships and educational exchanges, both countries have opportunities to strengthen their commercial relationship and create greater benefits for their respective populations.
Continued engagement between government institutions, businesses and educational organisations could further support these shared objectives.
A Shared Vision for a Stronger Pakistan–Korea Partnership
The National Foundation Day and Armed Forces Day reception served as a celebration of Korea’s national achievements and a reaffirmation of the close relationship between Pakistan and the Republic of Korea.
The messages delivered by Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry and Ambassador Han Sungho reflected a shared desire to build upon decades of friendship by expanding trade, investment, development cooperation and people-to-people exchanges.
As Pakistan and South Korea look towards the next chapter of their relationship, the enduring spirit of Dosti offers a strong foundation for a partnership focused on mutual prosperity, innovation and sustainable development.
The reception concluded as a distinguished celebration of Korea’s national identity and achievements, while reaffirming the importance of the longstanding friendship connecting the peoples of Pakistan and South Korea.
BY: The Times Union
