President Lee Jae-myung had his first currency conversation with Friedrich Merz, the Chancellor of Germany, and Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the President of Uzbekistan, on the 24th, said Spokesperson Kang Yu-jeong in a written briefing.
President Lee expressed his appreciation for Chancellor Merz's congratulations on his inauguration and noted that the relationship between the two countries has developed in various fields, including political, economic, social, and cultural areas, for about 140 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties. He also said, "Let us enhance the relations between our two countries through close exchanges and communication, as both new governments launched around the same time."
Chancellor Merz responded, "I am pleased that Korea has been an important partner in the Indo-Pacific region and that our two countries have maintained a close cooperative relationship based on democracy, human rights, and free trade for a long time."
The two leaders noted that despite the uncertainties in the global economy, the two countries have firmly sustained economic cooperation and agreed to continuously seek practical cooperation in various fields. They also expressed hope to meet soon at multiple events.
Meanwhile, President Lee expressed gratitude to President Mirziyoyev for congratulating him on his inauguration during their currency conversation and said that the special strategic partnership between the two countries should closely cooperate to reach a higher level. President Mirziyoyev also remarked that he has a special affection for Korea and hopes that the relations will further develop with the launch of Korea's new government.
The two leaders highly valued the close practical cooperation that the two countries have maintained in various fields, including transportation and infrastructure, and agreed to work together to further expand mutually beneficial cooperation. President Lee also requested President Mirziyoyev's attention and support regarding the challenges faced by our corporations operating in Uzbekistan.