… as Guyana awarded for 50 years of diplomatic relations

GUYANA has received a Korean historic symbol– the Cheonmachong gold crown– to commemorate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Cooperative Republic of Guyana and the Republic of Korea.

The handing over was done at a cocktail reception held at the Marriott Hotel on Friday evening. The crown is said to be a replica of a national treasure found in the national museum of Korea.

Performing the function of Prime Minister, Vice-President Carl Greenidge said to the attendees that 50 years is indeed a milestone to recognise.

“Our two countries have enjoyed 50 years of sincere and cordial friendship that is understood and underscored by the principles of mutual trust and respect. The Government of Guyana remains committed to working with you the Republic of Korea in advancing this programme of cooperation. We in Guyana are proud of the state and the extent of our relationship with the Republic of Korea and we look forward to celebrating many more milestones in the years ahead,” Greenidge said.

Reflecting on the years that have passed, the VP said that the long-standing relationship has indeed been marked by successful engagements at both bilateral and multilateral levels. “It is therefore fitting that we acknowledge some of the significant collaborative efforts that Guyana and the Republic of Korea have undertaken since the establishment of our diplomatic relations. At the bilateral level, our fruitful bonds have been characterised by continuous and meaningful political, as well as economic cooperation,” he said.
Adding that the Government of Guyana and the Republic of Korea have worked together to influence the global agenda and promote the interests of small developing states, he pointed out that the two countries have embraced common principles when addressing issues of global concern; and those include climate change, and the achievement of sustainable development goals.

“As you know, Guyana is moving towards development of the Green State Development Strategy, a paradigm that can place great emphasis on economic development, while ensuring the protection of our environment and the preservation of our diversity. Also, at the international level, Guyana and the Republic of Korea have been facilitators for regional peace and security. The relationship between our two countries has always been friendly and based on mutual respect. With this confidence that we have in each other, we have been able to maintain a high level government and personal exchanges on an active level,” Greenidge said.

South Korea’s Chargé d’affaires, the Honourable Minister Counsellor Dong-il Oh shared mutual sentiment as Greenidge. He stated that the Republic of Korea recognises Guyana as one of the key countries in the Caribbean Region. “There was a strong willingness towards mutual cooperation. We respect Guyana, where CARICOM is located, to play a pivotal role in areas such as sustainable development, climate change, e-government, etc,” Oh said.
Since 1991, he said, the Korean government has provided the Government of Guyana with more than 2 million dollars, worth of goods. In addition, the Korean government is always with Guyana’s people for emergency aid, in the event of disaster.

He reflected on various collaborations and mutual agreements over the years and acknowledged the country’s appreciation of the relationship.

The event was attended by several members of the diplomatic corps, all in solidarity with the appreciation of the golden jubilee between the two countries.