Foreign Minister Cho Hyun speaks during the 20th annual iftar dinner event in Seoul, Tuesday. Korea Times photo by Kim Hyun-bin
Korea’s foreign minister called for peace in the Middle East and highlighted centuries-old ties between Korea and the Muslim world as diplomats and members of the Muslim community gathered Tuesday for the government’s 20th annual iftar dinner during the holy month of Ramadan.
Hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Seoul, the event brought together Arab ambassadors, members of the diplomatic corps and leaders of the Muslim community to mark the evening meal that breaks the daily fast during Ramadan.
Foreign Minister Cho Hyun said the annual gathering, which began in 2004, reflects the growing friendship between Korea and the Islamic world.
“For two decades, the iftar dinner has brought us together through changing times,” Cho said. “It stands as a testament to the friendship and trust built over generations.”
Cho noted that ties between Korea and Muslim communities date back more than a millennium, when Muslim merchants traveled to the Korean Peninsula during the Silla Kingdom (57 B.C.-A.D. 935), with exchanges expanding further during the Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392).
The minister also addressed the ongoing conflict in Gaza, expressing concern over civilian suffering.
“Since the outbreak of the conflict in Gaza, we have expressed our hope for peace and sympathy for the innocent civilians suffering across the region, including in Gaza and the West Bank,” he said, adding that Korea extends condolences to the families of victims.
Cho said the spirit of Ramadan highlights values such as compassion, empathy and peace, which he said are especially important amid regional challenges.
“Peace is indispensable to everything we hope to build together,” he said.
Source: Korea Times News
