ISLAMABAD – Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Pakistan, Han Sungho, reaffirmed his country’s commitment to further strengthening relations with Pakistan, with a particular focus on trade, investment, development cooperation, technology and cultural exchanges.
Speaking at a reception hosted at his residence to commemorate Korea’s National Foundation Day and Armed Forces Day, Ambassador Han highlighted the longstanding friendship between the two nations, describing their relationship through the Urdu word “Dosti”, symbolising mutual trust, goodwill and cooperation.
Recalling the historical foundations of bilateral relations, the ambassador noted that Pakistan had extended food and material assistance to South Korea even before the two countries formally established diplomatic ties 43 years ago. He said this early gesture of solidarity reflected the enduring friendship between the two nations.
Highlighting South Korea’s continued contribution to Pakistan’s development, Ambassador Han outlined the work of several Korean institutions operating in the country. He noted that the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA) was facilitating stronger commercial and investment linkages, while the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), Korea Programme on International Agriculture (KOPIA) and Korea Heritage Agency were supporting initiatives in information technology, healthcare, agriculture, food security and cultural preservation. He also underscored the role of Korea’s Human Resources Development Service in creating employment opportunities for skilled Pakistani workers in South Korea.
Referring to cooperation in the technology sector, Ambassador Han expressed optimism about the potential of the newly inaugurated Daanish IT Park in Islamabad to strengthen Pakistan’s digital workforce and contribute to the growth of IT exports.
The facility, developed with support from the Korean government and EXIM Bank, was inaugurated on October 9 in the presence of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The ambassador also welcomed the increasing interest among Pakistani students in Korean language, education and culture, particularly at the National University of Modern Languages (NUML), describing such exchanges as an important means of bringing the people of both countries closer together.
Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, who attended the reception as chief guest, reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to expanding its partnership with South Korea, particularly in economic cooperation, investment and trade. He commended South Korea’s remarkable emergence as a leading global economy and technological powerhouse, highlighting the country’s achievements in innovation, industrial development, education and human resource development.
The minister emphasised that Pakistan could benefit significantly from South Korea’s expertise in technology, infrastructure, industrial modernisation and skills development, identifying these areas as promising avenues for future collaboration. He also referred to ongoing discussions concerning a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement between the two countries, expressing hope that a strengthened economic framework would facilitate greater business engagement, attract investment and generate new opportunities for sustainable economic growth.
Expressing confidence in the future of bilateral relations, the minister said Pakistan attached considerable importance to its friendship with South Korea and remained committed to building a stronger, more diversified partnership. The reception brought together guests for an evening celebrating Korean heritage and culture.
The programme featured traditional and contemporary Korean musical performances, dance presentations and martial arts demonstrations, while attendees were also treated to a selection of Korean cuisine. The occasion served as a celebration of South Korea’s national identity and the growing friendship between Pakistan and the Republic of Korea, highlighting shared aspirations for deeper cooperation and stronger people-to-people connections.