REPUBLIC OF KOREA, July 27, 2013 /CNW/ - The Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans Affairs, participated today in the 60th anniversary Commemoration of the Armistice Agreement Event in Panmunjom at the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) in the Republic of Korea.
The 60th Anniversary Commemoration of the Armistice Agreement Event at Panmunjom commemorates the signing of the Armistice Agreement on July 27, 1953, which ended the hostilities of the Korean War (1950-1953). The two sides are still technically at war as a peace treaty has not been signed. Canada is a member of the United Nations Command Military Armistice Commission, which oversees compliance with the Armistice Agreement. In addition, Canada is the only United Nations Sending State, aside from the United States, to have officers (5) embedded within the United Nations Command headquarters in Korea.
This area is most notably known for the peace talks that were held here on October 25, 1951, and was designated as the Joint Security Area on July 27, 1953. It is the only place where North Koreans and South Koreans can come in contact on a daily basis and make efforts toward peace in Korea.
2013 is the Year of the Korean War Veteran—Canada proudly remembers the heroes of the Korean War and their brave fight to uphold freedom, democracy and the rule of law. For more information on Canada's role in the Korean War, visit veterans.gc.ca.
Image with caption: "(L-R) Vince Courtenay, a Canadian Veteran of the Korean War, and Minister Julian Fantino, meet with Gen. James D. Thurman, Commander of the United Nations Command, following an event at the demilitarized zone between South and North Korea to mark the 60th anniversary of the signing of the Korean War Armistice. (CNW Group/Veterans Affairs Canada)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20130727_C2101_PHOTO_EN_29351.jpg
SOURCE: Veterans Affairs Canada
Media inquiries:
Janice Summerby
Media Relations Advisor
Veterans Affairs Canada
613-992-7468
Joshua Zanin
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs
613-996-4649
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