Reminds Ambassador Saeed Koozechi of Iran in Seoul
By Publisher-Chairman Lee Kyung-sik, Vice Chairman Choe Nam-suk, Reporter Kim Soo-bin
“Iran and Korea, despite twists and turns, enjoy long history of deep intimacy, friendship.” So said Ambassador Saeed Koozechi of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Seoul speaking at reception hostec by the Ambassador at Lotte Hotel in Seoul on the occasion of the commemorating the 45th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution of Iran at the Lotte Hotel in Seoul on Feb. 7, 2024.
Then he said, “The two countries have maintained healthy cooperative relations in
various fields such as politics, economy, and culture over the years, but the relationship is suffering difficulties due to a conspiracy against thefriendly relations between Iran and Korea.”
“However,” assured Ambassador Koozechi, “before long, the bilateral ties will reach its peak again with the will and determination of both governments, taking advantage of the potentials of the two countries countries.” (See further details of his speech toward the end of this article.)
The reception was attended by many Korean and international dignitareis, who included Minister for Climate Change Hyoeun Jenny Kim and Chairman Chun Jung-bae of Korea-Iran Council. There also were representatives from public, economic and media organizations, who included Publisher-Chairman Lee Kyung-sik of The Korea Post media, publisher of 3 English and 2 Korean-language news publicaitons since 1985.
Expressing her warm congratuatons on the auspicious day of Iran, Minister for Climate Change Hyoeun Jenny Kim said, “Although our diplomatic relations are 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.”
Then she noted, “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,” went on Minister Kim, “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.”
“And,” she said, “in 1977, we named streets in Seoul and Tehran, ‘Tehran Boulevard’ and ‘Seoul Street,’ respectively, as a symbol of our friendship and the Tehran Boulevard is the only road in Seoul named after a foreign city.” (See further details of her speech toward the end of this article.)
Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport Won Hee-ryong also had very warm remarks for Iran and Korea-Iran relations. He said, “Although our diplomatic relations are 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.” Then he said, “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,” he noted, “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, and in 1977, we named streets in Seoul and Tehran, ‘Tehran Boulevard’ and ‘Seoul street,’ respectively, as a symbol of our friendship.”
Welcoming Remarks by Ambassador Saeed Koozechi of Iran:
Her Excellency Hyoeun Jenny Kim, Ambassador & Deputy Minister for Climate Change, His Excellency Jung Bae, Chun, Chairman of Korea-Iran Council.
Excellencies, Ambassadors, Distinguished guests, Ladies and Gentleman, as Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran, it is my honor to welcome the distinguished guests to this meaningful occasion commemorating the 45th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution of Iran.
At this time of year 45 years ago, the Islamic Revolution in Iran emerged victorious. A revolution that succeeded through the vigilant role and participation of the people in the social and political arena, under the leadership of Imam Khomeini (RA), has established a system based on religious democracy for the Iranian society.
The Islamic Revolution in Iran, in a bipolar system, has presented a new model of independent foreign policy that does not rely on the global hegemony bloc and which is “neither East nor West”, to the people and governments of the country.
Since then the Islamic Republic of Iran has pursued a foreign policy that is not bound or restricted by a particular country or bloc or ideology and indeed, for more than four decades, Iranians have played a fundamental role in shaping their own destiny through democratic mechanisms.
The people and government of Iran, which boasts a long history in human civilization, have achieved remarkable success and achievements in various fields such as science, technology, and economy over the past 40 years since establishing a progressive governance system.
Despite hurdles, these prosperities have been unfolding while the country had been facing numerous challenges such as conspiracies and countless adversities like the imposed war, economic sanctions, and maximum pressure over the years and, Iran had managed to tide over these difficulties, efficiently.
The Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran, while prioritizing Asia Pivot approach, has consistently pursued extensive and balanced development of political , economic and cultural relations with all countries worldwide.
In addition, the establishment of justice and equality in the international system and the fight against illegal and oppressive sanctions by the United States have been adopted as major foreign policy strategies over the past few years.
Distinguished guests, The Islamic Republic of Iran and the Republic of Korea, despite lots of twists and turns over the past six decades of the diplomatic relations and cooperation, have enjoyed long history of deep intimacy and friendship.
The two countries have maintained healthy cooperative relations in various fields such as politics, economy, and culture over the years, but the relationship is suffering difficulties due to a conspiracy against the friendly relations between Iran and Korea.
However, before long, the bilateral ties will reach its peak again with the will and determination of both governments, taking advantage of the potentials of both countries
Distinguished guests,
In closing,
while once again extending my sincere appreciation for valuable attendance in this auspicious event, I would like to offer prayers for those people suffering world-widely, hoping that terrorism’s dark shadow will be lifted, especially from the oppressed people of Palestine, witnessing daily mass killings of countless civilians.
A proper and profound understanding of the Palestine issue can only be dealt by recognizing the roots of the cause. No solution can come to fruition unless a plan is implemented to eliminate the causes of this crisis.
Long live Peace and Freedom.
Long live Islamic Republic of Iran-Republic of Korea, Friendship.
Thank you.
Congrtulatory message by Minister Hyoeun Jenny Kim:
Salam(쌀람.) 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 - 1 - between Korea and Iran since 1962. Distinguished guests, although our diplomatic relations are 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 - 2 - 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 competition 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 - 3 - 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.
Congratulatory speech by Chairman Chun Jung-bae of the Korea-Iran Council:
I sincerely congratulate the 45th National Day of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and express my gratitude, especially to the representative delegation of our government and the distinguished guests from home and abroad who have shown interest in Iran and have honored us with their presence here today. Thank you.
The relationship between South Korea and Iran has surpassed not only the significant 60th anniversary but also extended beyond 61 years. At this meaningful time, it is with great pleasure that I stand here as the representative of the Korea-Iran Council to deliver a congratulatory speech. Going back in history to the Unified Silla Period, if we examine the Iranian epic called the 'Kushname,' we encounter a beautiful love story between a Persian prince and a Silla princess.
This tale unfolds the narrative of their connection, leading to a 1,500-year blood alliance between the two nations. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations, the citizens of both countries have cultivated a unique friendship by mutually understanding the rich heritage and proud history.
This shared appreciation has become the greatest asset in fostering the strong bond of friendship between the two nations Based on this beautiful history between the two countries, it is evident that Korean dramas, starting with 'Dae Jang Geum,' which aired in Iran, and subsequent Korean dramas, achieved a phenomenal 90% viewership, becoming massive hits. Korean electronics and automobiles also received abundant love from Iranian consumers.
Conversely, various resources and raw materials, including Iranian oil, from Iran have served as a cornerstone for the development of industries in Korea. Mainly led by large corporations, South Korea has made significant contributions to Iran's energy and construction sectors.
Additionally, around 3,000 mid-sized and small businesses from South Korea have engaged in trade with Iran, a nation with a population of 85 million, where more than two-thirds of the population is under the age of 30, boasting a substantial young consumer base.
This has played a crucial role in contributing to the economic development of both countries. In particular, following the conclusion of the Iran Nuclear Deal in 2016, most of the international economic sanctions were lifted, laying the foundation for both countries to strengthen their partnership.
However, regrettably, since the resurgence of international economic sanctions in 2018, bilateral commercial transactions came to a complete halt. This has led to a gradual reduction in exchanges, interactions, and mutual understanding between the two nations. Not only has economic cooperation been affected, but activities in various fields such as cultural, academic, and sports exchanges have also dwindled, creating a sense of regrettable stagnation Nevertheless, as the Korean proverb goes, 'After the rain, the ground becomes firmer.'
I believe that by overcoming these challenges together, our bilateral relationship will become even stronger. Once again, I extend my congratulations on the 45th National Day of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Thank you!