Present there on invitation were Yang Hyong Sop, vice-president of the Presidium of the Supreme People's Assembly, Jong Yong Su, minister of Labour, and other officials concerned.

Staff members of the Iranian embassy were on hand.

Morteza Moradian said in his speech that the friendly relations between Iran and the DPRK provided by the leaders of the two countries have grown stronger in recent years.

He hoped that the Korean people would achieve great successes in their efforts to implement the behests of President Kim Il Sung under the wise leadership of Kim Jong Il.

Yang Hyong Sop said in his speech that Kim Jong Il has performed immortal feats before the country and the people, the era and the history with his prominent political caliber and rare leadership art.

The Korean people are rejoiced over the fact that the Iranian government and people have achieved successes in the drive to build a prosperous society, he said, underscoring the need to make efforts to expand and develop the friendly and cooperative relations with Iran.