![Peruvian Ambassador to the Republic of Korea speaks during an opening session for the Independence Day of Peru celebration event held in central Seoul on July 25 AJU PRESS Park Sae-jin](https://image.ajunews.com/content/image/2024/07/26/20240726094809304262.jpg)
SEOUL, July 26 (AJU PRESS) - Envoys and special guests gathered at a hotel in central Seoul on Thursday to celebrate the 203rd anniversary of Peru's Independence Day, hosted by the Peruvian Embassy in Seoul.
During the opening ceremony, Peruvian Ambassador to Korea Paul Duclos highlighted the 60th anniversary of the South American country's diplomatic relationship with Korea, which was commemorated in 2023.
Peru celebrates its independence from Spain, achieved by José de San Martín, the most famous liberator of Latin America, on July 28. It also celebrates the establishment of the country the following day. These two days are collectively known as Las Fiestas Patrias, the most important national holidays in Peru.
"Eastern philosophy reminded us that this 60th anniversary, or Hwangap (60th birthday in Korean), represents a new, even more auspicious and fruitful period in the years to come," the Peruvian envoy said, emphasizing that both countries have fought for their independence in the past.
Duclos also discussed the bilateral strategic alliances formed in the defense sector, including collaboration on constructing a modern shipyard and industrial production of vessels in the port of Callao. The two countries have also agreed to co-produce armed vehicles and parts for Korea's FA-50 light fighter jets.
The Peruvian envoy promised more cooperation with Korea in various sectors as Peru currently holds the presidency of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Forum (APEC) and will transfer the role to Korea next year.
"We look forward to the visit of President Yoon Suk Yeol and other key officials and representatives from the private sector of Korea," Duclos said.