Address by H.E.Mr.Gleb A.Ivashentsov,

Ambassador of Russia to the

Republic of Korea, at a reception on

the occasion of the Day of Russia

(Seoul, 11^th June, 2009)

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Friends and Colleagues,

I am glad to see you at Russian Embassy at a reception on the happy occasion of the Day of Russia. June 12^th is a special date in the modern history of our country. The Day of Russia is inseparable from the values of freedom, democracy and human rights. And today – with common endeavours towards modernization of the economic, social and cultural life of the country. To achievement of such results which will secure the progressive development of Russia in the decades to come. There is no doubt that with the efforts of the whole Russian people we well succeed in that.

Russia and the Republic of Korea are close neighbours. Our two states are actively working today to bring the bilateral relations to the level of strategic cooperation and partnership. That partnership has an independent value for each of our countries from any consideration - be it political, economic or security one.

We are not divided by any contradictions or disputes. We cooperate at sea, at land and in outer space. That cooperation of ours is not directed against any third country. It is aimed to help secure and prosperous life of Russians and Koreans and all peoples of Northeast Asia.

The recent actions by the DPRK have sharply aggravated tension in the region. While condemning Pyongyang for those actions we in Russia, however, think that it would be wrong to undertake steps to complete international isolation of the DPRK. In no case doors for the dialogue with North Koreans are to be shut. We are confident that the nuclear issue of the Korean peninsula can be settled only by political and diplomatic means within the framework of the Six-Party Process. It is to the resumption to the Six-Party talks that our common efforts should be directed. It is important to Cut off emotions and to march forward while combining firmness and determination with restraint and composure.

Dear friends!

The confidential and benevolent relations between Russia and the Republic of Korea are based not just on the similarity of views on the modern world, but first of all on a great deal of initiatives which are being implemented by joint work of Russians and Koreans.

I welcome representatives of different Ministries and agencies of the Republic of Korea present here, as well as people of Korean business, social and academic circles, the people of arts, each of whom makes a significant contribution to the cause of the Russian-Korean cooperation. I welcome our Colleagues of the Seoul diplomatic corps and the officials of the Embassy and other Russian agencies and companies.

May I offer the toast:

To further strengthening partnership between Russia and the Republic of Korea!

To peace in Northeast Asia and beyond!