TASHKENT, Uzbekistan – South Korea has officially designated Uzbekistan as its paramount partner in Central Asia, signaling a strategic push to deepen regional cooperation. This pivotal move comes as Seoul prepares for the inaugural Korea-Central Asia Summit later this year, aiming to forge stronger economic ties and collaborative initiatives across the region.
“The year 2026 holds immense significance for Korea and Central Asia, with the upcoming inaugural summit poised to usher in a new era for our bilateral relationship,” stated Kim Young-man, Director General for Trade Policy Coordination at the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources. His remarks were delivered during a congratulatory address at the Korea-Uzbekistan Business Forum held on Tuesday, highlighting the strategic importance of this partnership.
Kim emphasized that robust, trusted partnerships are increasingly vital in a rapidly evolving global economy. He pointed to significant shifts driven by supply chain restructuring, escalating geopolitical uncertainty, and the relentless pace of digital transformation as key factors necessitating enhanced international collaboration.
“No nation can achieve sustainable growth in isolation. Korea and Uzbekistan represent optimal partners, uniquely positioned to unlock new opportunities by synergizing our respective strengths,” Kim asserted. He further noted the rich, shared history of economic growth and cooperation that the two nations have cultivated over the past three decades, building a foundation for future prosperity.
Highlighting critical avenues for future cooperation, Kim identified supply chain resilience, access to critical minerals, and advanced digital transformation initiatives. He underscored the indispensable role of private sector companies in these vital sectors. While governments are instrumental in establishing strategic direction, it is businesses that will translate these possibilities into tangible, impactful economic outcomes, Kim explained.
“The spirit of challenge, innovation, and mutual trust demonstrated by the distinguished business leaders convened here today will fundamentally shape the future trajectory of economic cooperation between our two dynamic countries,” he proclaimed.
Additionally, Kim confirmed the Ministry of Industry’s proactive engagement with the Uzbek government, providing steadfast support for Uzbekistan’s ongoing accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO). He reaffirmed Seoul’s unwavering commitment to collaborating closely with Tashkent, fostering a stable, predictable, and conducive business environment for companies from both nations to thrive.
The Korean government has already commenced comprehensive preparations for the landmark Korea-Central Asia Summit, which is firmly scheduled for September. This proactive approach underscores the high priority placed on enhancing regional engagement.
Further demonstrating this commitment, earlier this month, Bae Joon-hyung, Head of the International Trade Cooperation Bureau at the Industry Ministry, undertook an official visit to Tashkent. During his visit, he held productive meetings with Uzbekistan’s Deputy Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade, as well as the esteemed Chair of the Uzbekistan Fund for Reconstruction and Development.
Discussions during these high-level meetings focused on expanding cooperation across several strategic areas, including critical minerals, cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, digital manufacturing advancements, and the development of modern industrial complexes, as reported by the ministry.
