Prime Minister Hwang Kyo-ahn (right) and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas pose for a photo on Feb. 18 prior to an honorary banquet in Seoul.
Prime Minister Hwang Kyo-ahn and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, currently on a trip to Korea, discussed ways to boost bilateral exchanges between Korea and Palestine on Feb. 18. Prime Minister Hwang and the Palestinian leader also shared their views on issues of common interest, such as measures to bolster development cooperation and to cooperate on economic development.
While talking about a Palestinian student in attendance at the banquet, President Abbas said, “This student is the symbol of Korea’s support for Palestine, as she is studying in Korea thanks to Korea’s help.” The Palestinian president expressed his gratitude for Korea’s support and continued cooperation with Palestine on economic development.
Prime Minister Hwang said to the Palestinian leader that, “Korea will contribute to the development of Palestine by continuing its support for rebuilding and strengthening governance capabilities. We also hope both Israel and Palestine can come up with measures to plant the roots of permanent peace, based on a two-state solution, through dialogue and compromise.”
President Abbas said, “North Korea’s recent nuclear weapons tests and missile launch are violations of the decisions of the international community, which are unacceptable.” He also said he would definitely take an interest in and take into consideration the issue of safety for Koreans who visit Jerusalem and Bethlehem when Prime Minister Hwang asked him to take an interest in the safety of Korean travelers.
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas lights an incense stick at the Seoul National Cemetery on Feb. 18.
Prior to the banquet with Prime Minister Hwang, President Mahmoud Abbas headed to the Seoul National Cemetery. In the guestbook, the Palestinian president wrote, “I am honored to visit this historic place that commemorates the heroes and those who sacrificed their lives to protect the dignity of the country, the citizens and freedom. Today, Korean citizens enjoy a prosperous and stable living thanks to the will and spirit of those who defended liberation and the sovereign rights of the Republic of Korea. I would like to praise them and express the respect that Palestinian citizens have for Korean citizens, heroes and for those who sacrificed their lives for the country.”
By Jeon Han, Yoon Sojung
Photos: Jeon Han
Korea.net Staff Writers
hanjeon@korea.kr
Prime Minister Hwang Kyo-ahn (right) delivers welcoming remarks during the banquet with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas at the Prime Minister’s Official Residence in Seoul on Feb. 18.
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas signs the guestbook after paying his respects at the Seoul National Cemetery on Feb. 18 in Seoul.
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas signs the guestbook during his visit to the Seoul National Cemetery on Feb. 18.
