Uzbekistan and South Korea Presidents Hold High-Level Talks in Tashkent

Tashkent, The Gulf Observer: In a significant diplomatic engagement, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev and President of the Republic of Korea Yoon Suk Yeol convened for negotiations in a narrow format at the esteemed Kuksaroy residence in Tashkent.

President Mirziyoyev warmly welcomed President Yoon, extending heartfelt congratulations on two momentous occasions: the 32nd anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Uzbekistan and South Korea, and the fifth anniversary of their special strategic partnership.

The high-level meeting encompassed a broad spectrum of discussions aimed at deepening bilateral cooperation in critical sectors such as politics, trade, economics, technology, and other pivotal areas. The dialogue underscored the Republic of Korea’s prominent role as a key trade and investment partner for Uzbekistan. In the previous year, the bilateral trade turnover reached a substantial US$2.5 billion, while Korean investments in Uzbekistan surpassed US$7.5 billion. Additionally, the growing tourist exchange was highlighted, with 10 weekly flights currently operating between Tashkent and Seoul.

A key outcome of the negotiations was the agreement to establish a new partnership model designed to harness the full potential of both nations and to foster large-scale, high-tech collaborative projects.

Cultural and humanitarian exchanges also featured prominently in the talks. The successful operation of four branches of leading Korean universities in Uzbekistan and the enrollment of over 11,000 Uzbek students in South Korean institutions were celebrated as symbols of the thriving bilateral relationship. The House of Korean Culture, the Multidisciplinary Children’s Clinic, Seoul Garden, and Seoul Street in Tashkent were acknowledged as enduring symbols of the enduring friendship and cooperation between the two countries.

Both presidents reiterated the importance of mutual support in international organizations and exchanged views on regional cooperation, including the “Central Asia – Republic of Korea” format.

The discussions also delved into enhancing collaboration in security and defense, with a particular focus on combating cybercrime, terrorism, and extremism.

The high-level talks between Presidents Mirziyoyev and Yoon Suk Yeol mark a significant step forward in the enduring and multifaceted partnership between Uzbekistan and South Korea, promising enhanced cooperation and mutual prosperity.