During his visit to Seoul, President of Kazakhstan Qasym-Jomart Toqaev awarded the Dostyk Order of the Second Degree to state and public figures of the Republic of Korea. The ceremony took place in the South Korean capital, according to infohub.kz.
Addressing the participants, the head of state emphasized that the Kazakh and Korean peoples have long been bound by strong ties of friendship.
"Despite the considerable distances separating our countries, we are brought closer by mutual respect and shared interests. The Korean economy is developing successfully, confronting competition and challenges. This has been made possible by the hard work of the people and the efforts of big business. The Kazakh people and government officials hold friendly Korea in sincere respect. The Republic of Korea is a strategic partner of Kazakhstan. We view Korea as a state enjoying high authority on the international stage. Our multifaceted cooperation is strengthening every year. Five years ago, the Declaration on Expanded Strategic Partnership was adopted," said Qasym-Jomart Toqaev.
He noted that the two states have established a close political dialogue and are strengthening multifaceted cooperation.
"Trade and economic relations are developing dynamically. We are implementing a number of large-scale projects in mechanical engineering, energy, metallurgy, advanced technologies, and other sectors. World-renowned Korean companies are successfully operating in our country. Our cultural and humanitarian ties are also growing stronger," the president said.
In his speech, the head of state particularly highlighted the important role of Kazakhstan's Korean community in strengthening contacts with Korea.
"Currently, more than one hundred thousand 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 Academic Korean Theater in Almaty enjoys public recognition and love. A newspaper is published in Korean and a special radio program is broadcast," said Qasym-Jomart Toqaev.
The head of state expressed confidence that strengthening friendship between Kazakhstan and Korea serves the common interests of both peoples.
"I consider today very important for Kazakh-Korean relations. I have decided, as part of this visit, to award the Dostyk Order of the Second Degree to prominent state and public figures of the Republic of Korea. This is a sign of true respect and sincere recognition of the Kazakh people. I am confident that you will continue to make a significant contribution to strengthening ties between our countries," the president addressed the awardees.