Pakistan, Korea reaffirm commitment to boost relations through trade and culture
Rana Tahir Shahbaz
The Republic of Korea and Pakistan have reiterated their resolve to further deepen bilateral cooperation in trade, economic development, investment and cultural exchanges, Korean Ambassador to Pakistan Han Sungho said. The Ambassador was speaking at a reception hosted at his residence to celebrate Korea’s National Day and Foundation Day. He termed the Pak-Korea relationship a bond of mutual trust and lasting friendship, beautifully reflected in the Urdu word “Dosti”.
Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry was the chief guest on the occasion. Federal Minister and Chairman Board of Investment Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Digital Media Mr. Fahad Haroon, President ICCI Muhammad Zikriya Akbar Zia, Chairman PNTN Muhammad Abdullah Hamid Gul, Member of the National Assembly Isphanyar M. Bhandara also attended the reception. Ambassador Park recalled that Pakistan had extended food and material assistance to Korea even before the establishment of formal diplomatic relations 43 years ago, which laid the foundation of goodwill between the two peoples. Highlighting ongoing cooperation, he said various Korean agencies are actively contributing to Pakistan’s socio-economic development. He noted that KOTRA is working to enhance trade and investment, while KOICA, KOPIA and the Korea Heritage Agency are cooperating in IT, health, agriculture, food security and heritage preservation.He added that Korea’s Human Resources Development Service (HRD Korea) is also providing employment opportunities to skilled Pakistani workers in Korea under the Employment Permit System.
The Ambassador said the recently inaugurated Islamabad IT Park, now named Daanish IT Park, a flagship project funded by the Korean government and EXIM Bank of Korea and inaugurated on October 9 by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, will play a vital role in empowering Pakistan’s IT workforce and boosting IT exports. He also appreciated the growing popularity of Korean language and culture among Pakistani youth, particularly students of NUML. Mr. Faisal Zahid Malik, Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of Pakistan Observer, also attended the reception along with diplomats, senior officials and distinguished guests. The event was attended by diplomats, dignitaries and members of the business community.
Speaking on the occasion as chief guest, Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry said Pakistan attaches great importance to its relations with Korea and is keen to expand economic partnership, investment and business-to-business contacts. He lauded Korea’s remarkable transformation into a global economic and technological leader and said Pakistan wants to benefit from Korea’s experience in industrial development, technology, infrastructure, education and vocational training.
The Minister said both sides are engaged on a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which would create new avenues for business collaboration and sustainable growth. The evening featured vibrant performances of Korean music and dance, Taekwondo martial arts demonstration, and Korean cuisine, which was enjoyed by the guests.