South Korea's Minister of Foreign Affairs Cho Tae-Yul held a productive bilateral meeting with Uzbekistan's Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov on November 4 during Saidov's visit for the 17th Korea-Central Asia Cooperation Forum.
The two ministers engaged in comprehensive discussions on a variety of mutual interests, emphasizing the strengthening of bilateral relations, the enhancement of cooperation, and the analysis of key regional and international issues, particularly the evolving situation on the Korean Peninsula.
This meeting marked the fourth encounter between the two ministers this year. They acknowledged the ongoing close communication aimed at ensuring the effective implementation of follow-up measures from President Yoon Suk-Yeol's state visit to Uzbekistan in June, reinforcing the special strategic partnership established in April 2019. Both ministers committed to maintaining active exchanges in the future.
Minister Cho highlighted the importance of Uzbekistan's cooperation for the concrete implementation of Korea’s inaugural Central Asia-specific strategy, the "Korea-Central Asia K-Silk Road Cooperation Initiative." He also expressed hope for fruitful discussions at next year’s Korea-Central Asia Summit, which will be hosted in Korea.
In response, Minister Saidov expressed strong support and cooperation, emphasizing that the robust relationship between Korea and Uzbekistan should contribute positively to broader Korea-Central Asia relations.
The two ministers also discussed expanding cooperation beyond traditional areas, identifying key sectors for collaboration: the supply chain of essential minerals, transportation and infrastructure, health and medical care, public administration, and environmental sustainability. Minister Saidov agreed, stating that the Uzbek government would facilitate increased investment, particularly by Korean companies entering the Uzbek market, and promote human and regional exchanges.
Additionally, Minister Cho addressed the pressing issue of North Korea's ongoing violations of UN Security Council resolutions, highlighting the recent missile provocations and illegal arms support to Russia. He emphasized the need for a united international response to ensure compliance with international obligations. Minister Cho thanked Uzbekistan for its support of South Korea's unification efforts and requested continued cooperation.
Minister Saidov reaffirmed Uzbekistan's long-standing support for South Korea's endeavors to maintain security and stability on the Korean Peninsula, promising ongoing collaboration in this regard.
In August, South Korea cemented its status as one of Uzbekistan's top five trading partners, joining the ranks of China, Russia, Kazakhstan, and Turkey. The trade relationship between the two nations has been notable, with bilateral trade reaching $1.19bn. However, despite this position, year-on-year data indicates a gradual decline in trade volume over the past two years. In 2022, trade between South Korea and Uzbekistan amounted to $1.4bn, but it decreased to $1.2bn in 2023 and fell slightly further to $1.19bn in 2024.
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