By Roy Lie A Tjam.
The Korean National day 2015 celebration, which took place at the World Bel Air Hotel, attracted scores of fellow ambassadors, public servants and many friends who arrived to congratulate Ambassador Jong-hyun Choe. It was a bright sunny day. A summary of the Ambassador’s address now follows:
”I would like to begin by thanking you very much for taking the time to attend our National Day reception. We’re celebrating today the foundation of the Korean nation. According to our historiography the history of our people can be dated back some four thousand years.
And this year holds even greater meaning in that it is seventy years since my country was liberated from colonial rule in 1945 following the end of the Second World War. Since then my country has indeed travelled a remarkable path.
For a photo album on the National Day of Korea, please click here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/121611753@N07/albums/72157657392066644
We owe a great deal to our friends in the international community for the support and help extended to us as we travelled that path. The United Nations helped us to form a new government in 1948 by establishing seven commissions. And when we were attacked by North Korea in 1950, many countries including the Netherlands sent soldiers to defend us. After the Korean War, many friends extended an invaluable hand to us in the form of significant development assistance. Since the mid- sixties when my country adopted an export – oriented growth strategy, you have bought Korean products. And since the mid -seventies many of you have placed orders with Korean construction companies.
Had it not been for all these, my country would not be where it is today. And I would like to take this opportunity to express our deep appreciation to you for all you have done for us. ”
Ambassador Jong-hyun Choe’s address was followed by a performance of the Soprano: Yun Park who also sang the national anthems of the Netherlands and Korea. Furthermore, a quartet made up of students at the Prins Claus Conservatorium in Groningen put on a dazzling show
Ambassador Jong-hyun Choe also offered his many guests to an excellent Korean buffet. Korea National day 2015 has been celebrated in a marvelous atmosphere on October 2.
