The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has rolled out the red carpet for South Korean President Lee Jae-myung's state visit, commemorating the occasion with an extraordinary display of South Korea's national flag, the Taegeukgi, across key institutions and landmarks. This unprecedented visual tribute underscores the significance of the diplomatic ties between the two nations.
In a press briefing from Abu Dhabi, Presidential spokesperson Kim Nam-joon confirmed that the UAE extended the "highest level of courtesy" to President Lee and the First Lady. Kim highlighted that the UAE mounted the largest Korean flag ever displayed, surpassing the size of any other foreign flag previously raised at the Ministry of Interior's headquarters. Furthermore, UAE officials noted that the total number of Taegeukgi flags lining Abu Dhabi's major roads also marks the largest deployment for a visiting head of state.
Beyond flag hoisting, prominent structures in the capital city were illuminated in the vibrant colours of the Korean flag. Buildings belonging to major institutions and landmarks, including the ADNOC (Abu Dhabi National Oil Company) headquarters, Mubadala, and the ADGM (Abu Dhabi Global Market), were lit up with Taegeukgi-themed spotlights after sunset, serving as a bright, visible expression of welcome.
The UAE also assigned high-ranking dignitaries to accompany President Lee throughout his visit. Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Affairs Authority, and Maitha bint Salem Al Shamsi, Minister of State, were appointed as ceremonial escorts to attend key events alongside the president.
In a personal gesture of respect, Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the fourth son of UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Chairman of the Emirates Development and Reconciliation Affairs Bureau, personally guided President Lee during his first official schedule in the UAE: a visit to the Wahat Al Karama (Martyrs' Memorial).
This grand welcoming gesture, spanning from the presidential palace and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to government buildings and the international airport, signals the deep respect and importance the UAE places on its strategic partnership with South Korea. The elaborate effort to integrate the Korean national symbol into the cityscape is a powerful indication of the strong, multifaceted relationship expected to be further cemented during President Lee's state visit.
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