Distinguished guests take a commemorative photo, marking the opening of the Egyptian Embassy's new defense complex in Seoul, Wednesday. Courtesy of the Egyptian Embassy in Korea

The Embassy of Egypt in Seoul on Wednesday celebrated the inauguration of its new defense complex building in Seoul's Seongbuk District, marking a new chapter in military and strategic cooperation between Korea and Egypt.

Hosted by Commodore Ahmed Elhadidi, Egyptian defense attaché to Korea, the ceremony brought together about 100 guests, including Egyptian and Korean military officials, diplomats, defense attachés from various embassies, government representatives and members of the Egyptian community here.

Among the key attendees were Major General Ayman Keshar, deputy head of the Egyptian Military Intelligence Authority, and Rear Admiral Ryu Youn-sang, deputy director general of the International Policy Bureau at Korea’s Ministry of National Defense. Egyptian Ambassador to Korea Hazem Zaki and the Moroccan ambassador to Korea also attended the event alongside executives from Korean defense firms.

The ceremony began with the national anthems of Egypt and Korea, followed by welcoming remarks from Elhadidi, a video presentation on bilateral defense cooperation, a ribbon-cutting ceremony, unveiling of the complex plaque and a networking reception.

Commodore Ahmed Elhadidi, Egyptian defense attaché to Korea, speaks during an inauguration ceremony for the Egyptian defense complex in Seoul, Wednesday. Courtesy of Egyptian Embassy in Korea

In his congratulatory remarks, Elhadidi described the new complex as “a witness to the strength of the historical relations between Egypt and Korea” and “a symbol of our shared will toward a more cooperative and secure future.”

“In this context, I would like to pause to highlight the importance of our military and defense cooperation with Korea. Our defense cooperation is vital for maintaining regional and global peace,” he said.

“Together, we are strengthening our capabilities and working toward lasting friendship and stability. Our bond goes beyond defense; it includes strong cultural and economic ties that create a better future for both our peoples. By working even closer together, we can face the challenges of the 21st century with unity and strength.”

Elhadidi thanked the Egyptian and Korean governments, as well as military and industry partners that contributed to the project, including Hanwha Aerospace, which he said reflected “the depth of the industrial and defense partnership between our countries.”

Source: Korea Times News