The dinner was attended by the members of the Australia-Korea Parliamentary Friendship Group, namely, Dr Fiona Martin of Reid, John Alexander of Bennelong and Julian Leeser of Berowra along with other members and some of former Australian ambassadors to S. Korea,
Australia is home to approximately 170,000 Koreans and the two countries are strong economic, political, and strategic partners.
Dr Fiona Martin representing the Reid constituency which is home to over 12,000 Australians of Korean ancestry said, “Our two countries are great friends and the Korean people have a special place in our community. Their values of harmony, and respect fit perfectly in the Australian way of life.”
“Our shared commitment to democracy and regional security bring our two nations close together, as well as our strong economic and trading relationship.”
This year marks 60 years of diplomatic relations between Australia and the Republic of Korea. The Republic of Korea is Australia’s fourth-largest two-way trading partner and the Korea Australia Free Trade Agreement (KAFTA) signed in 2014, has strengthened the relationship.