Korea, Uzbekistan sign on to widen ties

Foreign Minister Yu Myung-hwan and his Uzbek counterpart Elyer Ganiev yesterday agreed to deepen their countries` strategic ties based on stronger economic relations, the Foreign Ministry said.

Ganiev, who also serves as vice prime minister, arrived on Tuesday ahead of a three-day state visit by Uzbek President Islam Karimov starting today.

Karimov is to hold a summit with President Lee Myung-bak today.

"Vice Prime Minister Ganiev expressed satisfaction over the great development of ties and cooperation between the countries in the political, economic and cultural sectors based on the friendship and trust of their leaders," a ministry official said.

Yu and Ganiev yesterday signed four agreements for widening economic ties.

In total, Seoul will offer some $12 million of assistance this year, mainly via business deals.



The aid will be given with Korea building four water pumps in Uzbekistan`s northern Khorezm region before the end of the year under a $1.5-million deal.

Another $3 million worth of support and supplies will be extended to help improve Uzbekistan`s ability to fight contagious diseases.

"In addition, we plan to send 57 volunteers, with Uzbekistan sending another 100 here for a training program," a ministry official close to the matter said. "We also hope to support Uzbek non-government organizations."

The two countries also signed a memorandum of understanding on defense cooperation for establishing a joint committee for purchasing defense goods.

During the meeting with Ganiev, Yu said he hoped President Karimov`s visit here will further enhance the two nations` strategic partnership that was forged in 2005.

(jemmie@heraldm.com)



By Kim Ji-hyun