By Suh Sang-pyo
 |
| Ambassador of the Republic of Korea Suh Sang-pyo |
Since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1983, the friendly and close relations between Korea and Pakistan have been increasing continuously. Now Korean brand cars ― Hyundai and Kia ― are produced in Pakistan and can easily be seen on the roads in Islamabad and other cities of Pakistan.
We also frequently see Pakistanis in the street holding Samsung mobile phones in their hands, which are assembled in Pakistan. Korean companies like Korea South-East Power Co. (KOEN), K-water, and Lotte E&C are investing in Hydropower projects in Pakistan and generating the electricity needed for Pakistan's daily life and economy.
On top of the expansion of economic relations, the two countries have come closer in people-to-people relations. Many Pakistani students who studied at Korean universities are now back in Pakistan, contributing to Pakistani society in various sectors such as the economy, medical services, and science and technology.
Recently, when the unprecedented floods hit Pakistan last summer, on top of the $2 million urgent humanitarian assistance delivered to Pakistan by the Korean government, Korean people also donated more than $1 million to support the affected Pakistani people. This is the genuine friendship that is held between Korean and Pakistani people.
This year Korea and Pakistan celebrate the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties. I am confident we will witness more expansion of these relations in the coming years.
Suh Sang-pyo is ambassador of the Republic of Korea to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.
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