Seminar on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of the Visit of the Great Leader President Kim Il Sung to the former Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia

 

On the occasion of the 40th anniversary of the Visit of the Great Leader President Kim Il Sung to the former Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia

On the occasion of the 40th anniversary of the Visit of the Great Leader President Kim Il Sung to the former Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia NKPJ, Communists of Serbia, Socialist Workers' Party of Croatia and Serbian Juche Idea Committee jointly organise Seminar on the immortal exploits of great Leader Comrade Kim Il Sung , Comrade Kim Jong Il and Comrade Kim Jong Un.

Following the seminar, all participants watched the Online exhibition“On the occasion of the 60th anniversary of Chairman Kim Jong Il’s start of working on the Central Committee of the Workers’ Party of Korea".

Dear comrades,

I greet you in the name of the SERBIAN NATIONAL COMMITTEEON THE STUDY OF JUCHE IDEA. Its big pleasure be with you todayon this Online-Seminar On the occasion of the 40th anniversary of the Visit of the Great Leader President Kim Il Sung to the former Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia.

The Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea established diplomatic relations on 30 October 1948. Relations between two countries were very close during the later time of President Josip Broz Tito and Great Leader President Kim Il Sung.  The correspondences between Kim and Tito throughout the 1970s shows the transformation of their relationship away from hostility and denunciation towards one of shared socialist and Third World solidarity. The leaders’ mutual desire to resolve the ongoing division of the Korean peninsula created a mutually beneficial working relationship.

Dear Comrades,

It was none other than the great leader Comrade Kim Il Sung who saved the Korean nation from the miserable fate of a ruined nation.

He was born in Mangyongdae, Pyongyang on April 15, Juche 1 (1912) and embarked on the road of revolutionary struggle for Korea’s liberation in his teens. In the course of groping for the road of the Korean revolution, he authored the Juche idea and the Songun idea(army-first idea) and commanded the anti-Japanese revolutionary struggle for two decades under its banner, finally achieving the historic cause of Korea’s liberation on August 15 Juche 34 (1945).

After his triumphal return to the liberated homeland, he founded the Workers’ Party of Korea without delay, carried out the democratic reforms, including the land reform, nationalization of key industrial establishments and enforcement of the Law on Gender Equality, and founded a regular armed force. Based on these achievements, he founded the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, the first people’s democratic state in the East, on September 9, Juche 37 (1948).

He creditably safeguarded the sovereignty and dignity of the DPRK in the Korean War(1950-1953) provoked by the US in an attempt to stifle the two-year-old Republic in its cradle. He carried out the postwar rehabilitation and the socialist revolution in a short period and led the socialist construction of several stages to victory, thus turning the DPRK into a socialist power, independent in politics, self-sufficient in the economy and self-reliant in defence.

He regarded “The People Are My God” as his lifetime motto and his benevolent politics got a people-centred socialist system deeply rooted in the DPRK.

He advanced the fundamental principles and ways for Korea’s reunification, including the Three Principles of National Reunification, the Ten-Point Programme of the Great Unity of the Whole Nation and the Proposal on Founding the Democratic Federal Republic of Koryo, and devoted his all for the national reunification cause until the last day of his life.

He defined independence, peace and friendship as the basic ideal of the DPRK’s foreign policy and enhanced its international prestige through his energetic external activities. Working as head of state and veteran of world politics for nearly half a century, he made immortal contributions to developing and strengthening the socialist and non-aligned movements.

Dear comrades,

The brilliant victories and achievements of the Korean people today are the direct product of a whole legacy left by revolutionary leaders Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il. Currently, under the leadership of Comrade Kim Jong Un, the Workers Party of Korea is leading the Korean people in their struggle to build and consolidate socialism centered on the masses of the people.

Dear Comrades

Friends and comrades.

On the occasion of the 40th anniversary of Kim Il Sung's visit to the SFRY, the Communists of Serbia, as a revolutionary, Marxist-Leninist party, consistently marks all important dates from the glorious history of the KPJ and SKJ. We recently marked the 4th of May, the anniversary of the death of Marshal Josip Broz Tito, the only commander-in-chief who was wounded and personally participated in the Second World War, who with his communist comrades overthrew capitalism, built self-governing socialism according to Marx's model, was the leader of the non-aligned movement and Kim Il Sung's best friend. We also celebrated Victory Day over fascism on May 9, Our Victory Day on May 15, and May 25, Comrade Tito's birthday. We will always remember the arrival of our great friend Kim Il Sung the revolutionary whose image stands proudly next to Lenin, Marshal Tito, Mao Tse Tung, Ho Chi Minh and Fidel Castro. Huge sacrifices have been made for the freedom of the people of Korea, in the first place we mean the members of the Workers' Party. We will never forget that heroism. Today we also remember the great Kim Jong Il who continued the revolutionary path, successfully defended socialism from the onslaught of American neo-fascists and their satellites. For us, however, the greatest achievement is that under his leadership, DPR Korea became a nuclear power respected by the whole world. Today, Comrade Kim Jong-un continues the revolutionary path, developing a humane socialism in which there is no place for even the slightest influence of capitalism. Using all the achievements of science and technology, DPR Korea today is the guiding star of all communist parties and the entire progressive humanity. Today, the comrades from the Workers' Party of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea are also a model for the Communist Party of Serbia to remain consistent with its program and never cooperate with capitalist parties, but fight against them with all the means at our disposal.

 

Comradely greeting

Communists of Serbia

General Secretary and

Intrenational secretary

Dejan Jovanovic

Speech by the Socialist Workers Party of Croatia on the 40th anniversary of the visit of comrade Kim Il Sung to Yugoslavia

Respected comrades,

I  thank you on behalf of the Socialist Workers Party of Croatia and in my own name for the honor of speaking at this important event.

Today we commemorate the 40th anniversary of comrade Kim Il Sung's visit to Yugoslavia witch stands as a significant milestone in the history of international diplomacy and socialist solidarity. This visit, marked by mutual respect and camaraderie, highlighted the profound connection between the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea and the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia.

Kim Il Sung, a leader renowned for his commitment to the principles of socialism and self-reliance, found in Yugoslavia a kindred spirit in Josip Broz Tito. Their many meetings were not mere diplomatic formalities but were imbued with a genuine exchange of ideas and strategies for the development and independence of their respective nations. These meetings were a testament to Kim Il Sung's vision of fostering strong international alliances that were based on mutual respect and shared goals and ideological affinity.

During all of his visits, Kim Il Sung was received with great honor and enthusiasm, reflecting the high regard in which he was held by the Yugoslav leadership and people. The warmth of the receptions, the grandeur of the ceremonies, and the depth of the discussions all underscored the profound impact of his presence. Kim Il Sung's ability to engage with leaders from different backgrounds and his openness to diverse approaches to socialism were key factors in the strengthening of the DPRK-Yugoslav relations.

The visits facilitated numerous cultural, economic, and political exchanges that enriched both nations. They paved the way for greater cooperation in various fields, from industrial development to cultural exchange programs, fostering a spirit of solidarity that transcended national boundaries. The exchanges promoted by Kim Il Sung and Tito contributed to the global socialist movement, demonstrating that unity and cooperation were possible despite differing paths to socialism.

Kim Il Sung’s visits to Yugoslavia are remembered not just as diplomatic events but as historic moments that showcased the power of dialogue and cooperation. They underscored the importance of maintaining open channels of communication and the value of learning from one another's experiences. These visits remain a shining example of how leaders can work together to build a more just and equitable world.

Comrade Kim Il Sung for the first time visited Yugoslavia in 1975. This visit had several significant consequences for both countries and their relationships within the broader context of the Cold War.

It took place from August 28 to September 1, 1975.

The visit occurred during a period when both countries were navigating complex relationships within the socialist world.

 

The visit marked a significant moment in Democratic People’s Republic of Korea foreign diplomacy, demonstrating Kim Il Sung's willingness to engage with non-aligned socialist countries.

It reinforced the notion that DPR Korea was seeking to broaden its international relationships.

The visit underscored DPR Korea's interest in the Non-Aligned Movement, which Yugoslavia was a key member of. Although DPR Korea was not a formal member, it showed solidarity with NAM principles, seeking to fight against imperialist influences.

Strengthening ties with Yugoslavia allowed DPR Korea to show its independence and non-alignment, which was crucial for its diplomatic strategy.

This visit facilitated discussions on economic and technological cooperation between the two countries. Yugoslavia offered DPR Korea potential avenues for economic exchanges and technological assistance.

Kim Il Sung's visit to Yugoslavia had also a symbolic importance. It demonstrated his commitment to forging an independent path in international relations.

It was a public show of mutual respect and recognition between two leaders who had successfully established and maintained their unique versions of socialism in their respective countries.

For Yugoslavia, the visit reinforced Tito’s strategy of promoting Yugoslavia as a leader in the Non-Aligned Movement and as a bridge between different blocs.

For DPR Korea, it showcased Kim Il Sung’s stature and recognition on the international stage.

Kim Il Sung's visit to Yugoslavia in 1975 was a strategic move that had various implications:

- It strengthened bilateral relations and highlighted DPR Korea's diplomatic versatility.

- It emphasized both nations' commitment to independence.

- It contributed to the broader narrative of non-alignment during the Cold War, providing both countries with additional leverage in their international dealings.

This visit had lasting effects on how both countries were perceived in the international arena and helped to shape their foreign policies in the years that followed.

Kim Il Sung had his second state visit to Yugoslavia in 1984. This visit, occurring almost a decade after his previous state visit in 1975, held significant importance for both countries and had several notable consequences within the context of Cold War geopolitics.

Kim Il Sung visited Yugoslavia in September 1984.

This visit took place during a period of continued Cold War tensions, though détente efforts were intermittently in play. Both Yugoslavia and DPR Korea were navigating their unique positions within the global communist movement. Yugoslavia, under Josip Broz Tito's successors, was maintaining its non-aligned stance, while DPR Korea continued to assert its independence.

 

The visit reinforced the diplomatic ties between DPR Korea and Yugoslavia. It underscored their mutual respect and willingness to engage despite their differing paths within the socialist bloc.

The visit helped DPR Korea bolster its international standing and showcase its ability to engage with countries outside its traditional alliances.

Kim Il Sung's visit was a significant gesture towards the Non-Aligned Movement, even though DPR Korea was not a formal member. By engaging with Yugoslavia, a key player in the NAM, DPR Korea emphasized its commitment to non-alignment principles.

This alignment with NAM principles helped DPR Korea project an image of a sovereign and independent socialist state, enhancing its diplomatic credibility.

Discussions during the visit included topics of economic and technological cooperation. Yugoslavia's economy presented opportunities for DPR Korea to explore economic exchanges and technical collaboration.

Such cooperation was particularly important for DPR Korea as it sought to modernize its economy and improve its technological capabilities.

The visit had significant symbolic value. It illustrated Kim Il Sung's ongoing efforts to maintain and strengthen relationships with other socialist states.

It was a public display of mutual respect between the leaders of DPR Korea and Yugoslavia, reinforcing their shared commitment to socialist principles and independence.

For Yugoslavia, hosting Kim Il Sung reinforced its role as a leader in the Non-Aligned Movement and as a mediator in international affairs.

For DPR Korea, the visit provided a demonstration Kim Il Sung's international influence and the recognition he received from other states.

The visit helped improve DPR Korea's international image, portraying it as a state capable of engaging in high-level diplomatic relations.

It also highlighted Yugoslavia's role as a bridge between blocs during the Cold War, reinforcing its strategy of non-alignment.

Kim Il Sung's visit to Yugoslavia in 1984 had several important implications:

It strengthened bilateral relations and highlighted both countries' commitment to independent socialist policies.

It underscored DPR Korea's interest in the principles of the Non-Aligned Movement and its desire to engage with countries outside its traditional alliances.

The visit had symbolic importance, showcasing the mutual respect between DPR Korea and Yugoslavia and reinforcing their roles within the broader socialist and non-aligned movements.

This visit was a key moment in the diplomatic history of both nations, contributing to their international strategies and shaping their foreign policies in the subsequent years.

Between these two state visits Kim Il Sung attended the funeral of Josip Broz Tito, the President of Yugoslavia, in May 1980. His attendance at this event was highly significant for several reasons, reflecting the complex landscape of the Cold War, the diplomatic relations between DPR Korea and Yugoslavia, and the broader non-aligned movement.

Kim Il Sung's presence at Tito's funeral was a profound gesture of respect and solidarity. It underscored the strong personal and political relationship between the two leaders, who shared a vision of independent socialism.

This act of respect reinforced the diplomatic ties between DPR Korea and Yugoslavia, showcasing their mutual admiration and cooperation despite their differing approaches within the socialist bloc.

Tito was a founding figure of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), which sought to maintain an independent stance outside the influence of the superpowers during the Cold War. Although DPR Korea was not a formal member of the NAM, Kim Il Sung's attendance highlighted DPR Korea's alignment with NAM principles.

By attending the funeral, Kim Il Sung demonstrated North Korea's support for the NAM and its commitment to the ideals of independence and non-alignment. This helped bolster DPR Korea's image as a sovereign state.

The attendance of Kim Il Sung at such a high-profile international event elevated DPR Korea's diplomatic standing. It demonstrated the respected leadership of Kim Il Sung on the global stage, capable of engaging in significant international ceremonies and interactions.

This participation also helped DPR Korea assert its relevance in global politics and its capability to maintain relations with diverse countries, thereby enhancing its international image and prestige.

For DPR Korea, Kim Il Sung’s presence at Tito's funeral was a powerful signal. It was used to illustrate the international recognition and respect Kim Il Sung commanded, reinforcing his image as a prominent and influential global leader.

The event was portrayed within DPR Korea as a testament to the country’s strong international relationships and its leader's esteemed status among world leaders.

Tito's death marked a critical juncture for Yugoslavia, as it faced the challenge of maintaining unity and stability without its long-time leader. Kim Il Sung's attendance was a gesture of support for Yugoslavia during this transition period, emphasizing the continuity of friendship and cooperation between the two countries.

This act of solidarity was important for Yugoslavia as it navigated its future without Tito, reinforcing the international community’s support for its non-aligned stance.

Kim Il Sung's attendance at the funeral of Josip Broz Tito had multiple layers of significance:

It demonstrated deep respect and solidarity between DPR Korea and Yugoslavia, strengthening their diplomatic relations.

It highlighted DPR Korea’s alignment with the principles of the Non-Aligned Movement, despite not being a formal member.

The attendance enhanced DPR Korea’s international image and diplomatic standing, portraying Kim Il Sung as a respected global leader.

It served as a potent symbol of international respect and recognition for the DPR Korea.

It provided a supportive gesture to Yugoslavia during a crucial transition period, reaffirming the continuity of their bilateral ties.

These events were key moments in the diplomatic history of both nations, reflecting the broader dynamics of socialist internationalism and the strategic relationships within the non-aligned movement.

Thank you.