By Diplomacy Journal Lee Kap-soo
The following article was contributed by Choi Yong-Ha, former Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Uzbekistan, on his perspective on President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s visit to New York and meeting with the President of South Korea to the Diplomacy Journal for publication through the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Seoul. –Ed.
September 2025 marked a pivotal moment in Uzbekistan’s international diplomacy. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s visit to New York to participate in the 80th anniversary session of the United Nations General Assembly not only underscored the country’s growing authority on the global stage, but also opened new horizons for strategic partnerships with the Republic of Korea, leading world powers, and global corporations.
As the former Ambassador of South Korea to Uzbekistan and recipient of the prestigious “Dustlik” Order, I always follow Uzbekistan’s diplomatic progress with deep respect and admiration. The country continues to strengthen its position in the international system with confidence and openness to cooperation.
From the UN podium, President Mirziyoyev delivered a programmatic speech addressing the key challenges of our time, including climate change, digital inequality, humanitarian security, and the reform of global institutions. His words resonated as the voice of a leader capable not only of representing national interests, but also of offering constructive solutions for the entire region.
On the sidelines of the General Assembly, a series of bilateral meetings took place, each of strategic importance. Particular attention was drawn to the talks with U.S. President Donald Trump. In an atmosphere of mutual respect, the two leaders discussed the implementation of previously reached agreements, the expansion of strategic partnership, and support for Uzbekistan’s reform agenda. President Trump praised the country’s economic achievements and highlighted the latest agreements totaling 105 billion USD.
This figure reflects the results of a dynamic business agenda of President Mirziyoyev’s trip. He held meetings with executives from more than 50 major American companies, including Boeing, Citigroup, Microsoft, Google, Nvidia, NASDAQ, Franklin Templeton, Cleveland Clinic, and others. Agreements and memoranda were signed across sectors such as aviation, energy, biotechnology, healthcare, digitalization, and financial markets.
A landmark agreement was reached with Boeing for the delivery of Dreamliner aircraft and the establishment of a technical service center in Uzbekistan. Discussions with Microsoft focused on digitalizing public services, cybersecurity, and education. Google and Nvidia expressed readiness to cooperate in artificial intelligence, cloud technologies, and agricultural innovation.
The financial dimension of the visit was equally impressive. Talks with Citigroup addressed the placement of Uzbek bonds on international markets and the opening of a representative office in Tashkent. Franklin Templeton supported the creation of a National Investment Fund, while NASDAQ expressed readiness to modernize the Tashkent Stock Exchange and introduce advanced trading platforms. These steps lay the foundation for a profound transformation of the country’s financial architecture.
Equally significant was President Mirziyoyev’s meeting with President Lee Jae-myung of South Korea. This first eye-to-eye dialogue since Lee Jae-myung’s inauguration in June reaffirmed the resilience and strategic depth of Seoul-Tashkent relations. The two leaders discussed expanding cooperation in industry, high technology, biotechnology, education, and humanitarian initiatives. President Mirziyoyev extended an official invitation for a state visit to Uzbekistan, emphasizing the importance of consolidating efforts across all areas of partnership.
For me, this meeting holds special meaning. I witnessed the early development of bilateral relations, and I am proud to see them now reaching a new level – evolving from traditional partnership into a technological and humanitarian alliance.
As a former diplomat, I am convinced that such meetings are not merely ceremonial events, but fundamental milestones that shape the future of bilateral and multilateral relations. I look to the future with confidence, knowing that South Korea–Uzbekistan cooperation will continue to flourish, inspiring new generations toward shared achievements.
I also have no doubt President Lee Jae-Myung will visit Uzbekistan soon where 180 thousand of ethnic Koreans living 90 years under warm Uzbekistan friends’ care.
In conclusion, I would like to emphasize that Uzbekistan has demonstrated its ability to offer a pragmatic approach to international cooperation. This last visit to New York was a vivid confirmation that Uzbekistan is a country with a clear vision, strong leadership, and growing influence.
And no doubt Uzbekistan grown up and showed up in international community bigger than ever.
