Today, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev began a state visit to the Republic of Korea at the invitation of President Lee Jae Myung. At Seoul Airport, the Head of State was welcomed by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Science and ICT Bae Kyung-hoon. On Wednesday, Seoul will host the first Central Asia-Republic of Korea summit, which President Tokayev will attend. The visit programme also includes high-level talks and meetings with the heads of leading Korean companies. Today, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev awarded the Order of Dostyk, Second Class, to government and public figures of the Republic of Korea. Among those who received the awards for their contribution to strengthening ties between the two countries were members of the National Assembly, the President of Seoul Cyber University, a Professor at Hankuk University of Foreign Studies, the Director of the Institute for Central Asian Studies, and the head of a multidisciplinary clinic.
«The people and Government of Kazakhstan hold sincere respect for friendly Korea. The Republic of Korea is a strategic partner of Kazakhstan. We regard Korea as a country enjoying great authority on the international stage. Our multifaceted cooperation is growing stronger with each passing year. Five years ago, the Declaration on Enhanced Strategic Partnership was adopted,» President Tokayev noted.
Today, the two countries maintain a close political dialogue, while trade and economic relations are also developing dynamically. Kazakhstan and the Republic of Korea are implementing a number of large-scale projects in mechanical engineering, energy, metallurgy, and advanced innovative technologies. Cultural and humanitarian ties have not been overlooked either and are also unlocking their potential. President Tokayev placed particular emphasis on the important role of Kazakhstan’s Korean community in strengthening ties with Korea. According to the Head of State, friendship between the two countries serves the interests of both nations.
«Today, more than 100,000 ethnic Koreans live in Kazakhstan. They play an important role in the economic and socio-political development of our country. We have created favorable conditions for all ethnic groups. The Koryo-saram community lives in peace and harmony on Kazakh soil and makes a significant contribution to strengthening unity and solidarity. Korean cultural centers operate in Kazakhstan. The Korean Academic Theatre in Almaty enjoys recognition and affection among the public. A newspaper is published and a dedicated radio program is broadcast in the Korean language,» President Tokayev added.
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