By UN Journal Lee Kap-soo

 

Celebrating the 34th anniversary of Uzbekistan's independence and the 33rd anniversary of diplomatic relations with Korea, the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Seoul held a reception in the Crystal Ballroom of Lotte Hotel in Seoul on Sept. 19, 2025.

 

 

Delivering welcome address, Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Korea Alisher Abdusalomov, said, “The Uzbek government is boldly investing in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, empowering youth, women, and entrepreneurs to lead the future of our nation. Uzbekistan is also deepening its engagement with the world. We are building bridges of trust and cooperation with neighboring countries and partners across continents.”

 

 

Noting that the relationship between Uzbekistan and Korea is firmly built on shared values and long-standing cultural ties, Amb. Abdusalomov stated, “The Korean community in Uzbekistan and the Uzbek community in Korea serve as a living bridge connecting our two countries, enriching the lives of both peoples and contributing significantly to social development.”

 

 

Commenting that Uzbekistan has established itself as one of the most promising investment destinations in Central Asia, he said, “The Uzbek government is committed to fostering a transparent, predictable, and investor-friendly business environment. Uzbekistan sincerely welcomes Korea's deeper engagement and cooperation, from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to large corporations.

 

 

Amb. Abdusalomov added, “From smart agriculture and green energy to digital infrastructure and advanced manufacturing, Korea's expertise and technological prowess are significantly contributing to the resilience and innovation of our economy.”

 

In his congratulatory remarks, Kim Kyo-heung, Member of the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea, serving as Chairman of the Culture, Sports and Tourism Committee, and as President of the Korea–Uzbekistan Parliamentary Friendship Association, said, “I wish to convey my profound congratulations on the 34th anniversary of Uzbekistan’s Independence, together with the 33rd anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Korea and the Republic of Uzbekistan.”

 

 

Commenting that this year represents a most significant, momentous, extraordinary and special occasion, as it marks the 80th anniversary of Korea’s Liberation and the 34th anniversary of Uzbekistan’s Independence, Rep. Kim stated, “The Republic of Korea and the Republic of Uzbekistan are bound by a shared history of safeguarding freedom and sovereignty.

 

 

“On 24 July this year, less than two months following his assumption of office, President Lee Jae-myung held his first summit call with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan. This carried particular significance, being firmly grounded in the historic solidarity between our two nations.”

 

 

He continued to say, “This demonstrates that Uzbekistan is a nation of great importance to the Republic of Korea, and affirms that our two countries remain steadfast partners. Furthermore, I would like to take this opportunity to express my deep gratitude to the Koryo-saram community — the ethnic Koreans in Central Asia — and in particular to those present here today, who have served as a vital bridge in strengthening our bilateral relations and in bringing our two nations ever closer over the past thirty years. Since its independence, the Republic of Korea has pursued both industrialization and democratization, thereby achieving what is often referred to as the ‘Miracle on the Han River’.

 

 

Rep. Kim added, “I shall devote my utmost efforts to sharing with you the experience of our cultural achievements, and to actively supporting cooperation in the fields of economy, education and the exchange of talent, so that our two nations may continue to grow together and to further consolidate their partnership.”

 

To boost the festive event, such distinguished guests as Chancellor of Korea National Diplomatic Academy Choe Hyoung-chan; Jeong Yong-ki, president and CEO of Korea District Heating Corp.; Kim Yong-gu, chairman of Small and Medium Business Promotion Association; and Sohn Kyung-shik, chairman of CJ Group delivered congratulatory remarks and toasts.

 

More than 500 honored guests from the Korean government and various other segments of Korean society, as well as the ambassadors and other senior officials from the Foreign Diplomatic Corps, attended the gala reception.