By Ochiaka Ugwu
The Embassy of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) in Nigeria Monday celebrated its 77th anniversary of founding the nation by Kim Il Sung.
While extoling the virtues of Kim Il Sung, Charge the Affairs of DPRK Embassy in Nigeria, Mr. Jong Chol Guk said the history of DPRK started with founding father, Kim II Sung.
Describing Comrade Kim Il Sung as a great leader and hero of the Korean people, Jong said the founder of socialist Korea waged arduous anti-Japanese armed struggle for 15 years, liberated the country from Japanese colonial rule in August 1945 and founded the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea on September 9, 1948.
According to Jong, “Distinguished guests, dear friends and comrades, first of all, I would like to express my gratitude for your participation in the banquet prepared by the Embassy on the occasion of the founding day of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.
“This year 9th of September is auspicious day that marks the 77th of the founding of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.
“With the founding of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, our country, which had lost its luster on the world stage, proudly assumed its status as an independent state and our people enjoyed a true life as true owners of government.
“The history of DPRK started with founding father Kim II Sung. The great leader Comrade Kim Il Sung, the hero of the Korean people and the founder of socialist Korea, waged arduous anti-Japanese armed struggle for 15 years, liberated the country from Japanese colonial rule in August 1945 and founded the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea on September 9, 1948.
“After founding the DPRK, he wisely led our people along the path of building a new Korea where there is no exploitation or oppression and where all working people can prosper together, thereby laying the foundation for an independent and sovereign state and bringing prosperity to modern Korea.
“Today, under the wise leadership of Comrade Kim Jong Un, President of the State Affairs of the DPRK, our people are relentlessly advancing toward the comprehensive development and revival of socialism along the path they have chosen, repelling all challenges from hostile forces. “DPRK government is developing its relationship by cooperating with all countries and people that pursue independence and justice, regardless of differences in ideology and system.
“We are developing cooperation with all capitalist countries that respect and treat our country with friendliness. DPRK and Nigeria DPRK and Nigeria has long history of friendly relationship.
“Since the establishment of diplomatic relations on May 25, 1976, our two countries have strengthened friendly and cooperative relationship in politics and economy and in many other fields, by supporting and cooperating with each other under the ideology of independence, friendship and peace.
“DPRK government will continue to develop friendly and cooperative relations in accordance with needs and interests of the government and peoples of the two countries and will strive to further strengthen and develop bilateral relations to new height.
“I take this opportunity to express my confidence that under the leadership of His Excellency President Tinubu, the Nigerian government and people will achieve greater success in their efforts to build a more prosperous Nigeria, and I hope that all of us here will actively contribute to development of friendly and cooperative relations between our two countries.
“Finally, I would like to propose a toast to Nigerian President His Excellency Tinubu for his health and for the health of His Excellency Kim Jong Un, the president of the State Affairs of the DPRK. And for the development of friendly and cooperative relationship between our two countries. And for the health of all people who have participated in this banquet” he said.
Also speaking, Deputy Director, Asia and Pacific Division of Nigerian Foreign Ministry, Amb. Mohammed Haidara said the day marks a significant milestone in the history of DPRK and a moment to reflect on the journey of nationhood.
He noted the resilience of people of DPRK and the inspiration they have, shaped their national identity.
Haidara said, “This day marks a significant milestone in the history of DPRK. A moment to reflect on the journey of nationhood. The resilience of your people and the inspiration they have, shaped your national identity. “Nigeria recognizes the importance of sovereignties, self-determination and pursuit of peace and development, principle that are shared by all nations enshrined in charter of United Nations. Nigeria and DPRK maintain diplomatic relations rooted in mutual respect and non-interference.
“We believe that dialogue, cooperation and peaceful engagement remain the most effective tools for fostering understanding among nations.
“In this spirit, we reaffirm our commitment on strategic international engagement and pursuit of global peace and stability. As the DPRK commemorates this historic occasion, we encourage continued efforts towards regional peace and prosperity.
“Nigeria stands ready to support initiatives that promotes dialogue against tensions and advance the wellbeing of all peoples. Let this anniversary serve not only as a celebration of national pride but also a reminder of our shared responsibility to build a more inclusive, secured and harmonious world.
“Once again, we extend our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to the government and people of Democratic People’s Republic of Korea” he concluded.
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