Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance and Economy Koo Yun-cheol stated that "South Korea and Uzbekistan are the best of partners" and pledged active support for cooperation between the local governments of both nations.

The Ministry of Finance and Economy announced on the 13th that Deputy Prime Minister Koo delivered this congratulatory remark while attending the Korea-Uzbekistan Local Government Cooperation Forum held at the JW Marriott in Dongdaemun, Seoul, on the 11th.

Deputy Prime Minister Koo stated, "At a time when balanced regional development is a survival strategy for our economy, this gathering to discuss cooperation between local governments ahead of the Korea-Central Asia Summit holds great significance."

He emphasized, "By leveraging regional strengths, we must create 'irreplaceable cooperation' that is unique to each region, and establish a virtuous cycle where such region-led success models elevate bilateral cooperation to new heights."

Furthermore, he stated, "We will actively provide support by linking various policy financing tools, such as the Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF), and resolve difficulties faced by companies and local governments on the ground."

The forum was co-hosted by the National Governors' Association of Korea and the Embassy of Uzbekistan in South Korea to expand economic cooperation and vitalize regional diplomacy between South Korea and Uzbekistan.

(Photo: Yonhap News)