Doha, 15 Nov. 2021

Korean Ambassador to Qatar Joon Ho Lee recently hosted a function to commemorate his country’s National Foundation Day.

The dignitaries present on the occasion included Minister of Communications and Information Technology HE Mohammed bin Ali bin Mohammed Al Mannai; Director of Protocol at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs HE Ambassador Ibrahim Fakhroo; Director of Asian Affairs Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs HE Ambassador Yousef Laram; Ambassador of Eritrea to Qatar and Dean of Diplomatic Corps HE Ambassador Ali Ibrahim Ahmed; members of the Korean community and guests.
Speaking on the occasion, the Korean envoy praised the Qatari government for its effective measures against the COVID-19 as more than 85 percent of Qatar’s population has been fully vaccinated, making Qatar one of the safest countries from the disease, thus making in-person gathering possible, stressing the the event would not be possible in other countries.

He said the National Foundation Day honours the foundation of Gojoseon, symbolising the birth of the Korean nation, the first state of the Korean Peninsula about 4,300 years ago.

The envoy also lauded Qatar’s role as a global mediator.
He said, “As a country trying to anchor peace and stability in the Korean peninsula, we fully appreciate Qatar’s mediator role bringing peace to the conflict-ridden areas across the globe.

“Korea and Qatar are the oldest and closest friends in many ways. First, we have cultivated our strong friendship since the diplomatic ties began in 1974. Now, our economies are closely intertwined. Korea is one of Qatar’s largest trading partners, one of the biggest LNG importers, and a significant investor for Qatar.

“At the early stage of the COVID-19, Korea provided Qatar with medical equipment such as COVID-19 test kits. Qatar Airways helped many Koreans return to their home when almost all airlines stopped their operations.”

The envoy said, “Second, we are friends looking in the same direction and preparing for the future together. Our two countries join hands in tackling future challenges.”

Three Qatar-based talented Koreans -- renowned pianist Sonia Park, flutist Eunhye Lee and flutist Shin Ji-hoon -- charmed the guests with their skillful display of melodious and relaxing pieces.