Address by H.E. Mr. Кonstantin V.Vnukov, Ambassador of the Russian Federation, at the reception on the occasion of the Fatherland Defender Day

Dear guests!

I am glad to welcome you at the reception on the occasion of the Fatherland Defender Day. This is a special day for the Armed Forces of Russia. And it is a special day for the whole people of Russia too. As every Russian, even if he is of the most civilian trade, viz, a worker or a farmer, a scientist or a diplomat, views himself a defender of the Fatherland.

Today the Armed Forces of Russia employ the most modern weapons. But Russia neither threatens anyone with nuclear or missile strikes nor sends her soldiers overseas to bully anyone. We are prepared to interact with all states to protect the world from old and now challenges like proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, international terrorism, transborder organized crime and narcotraffic.

The relations of Russia with the Republic of Korea are rising to the level of strategic partnership. Interaction in the defense matters including exchanges of delegations as well as military-cum-technological cooperation constitute an integral part of that partnership, which is aimed at promoting peace and security in Northeast Asia and beyond.

My greetings to you on the Fatherland Defender Day!

To the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation!

To the cooperation between Russia and the Republic of Korea!