SEOUL, August 25. /Dunyo IA/. Jin Okdong, Chairman and CEO of the South Korean financial group “Shinhan Financial Group”, extended his sincere congratulations and best wishes to the people of Uzbekistan through Dunyo IA on the eve of the 35^th Anniversary of the Independence of Uzbekistan:

- It is a great honour for me, on behalf of “Shinhan Financial Group” and on my own behalf, to congratulate the people of Uzbekistan on the 35^th Anniversary of State Independence.

Over the past decades, Uzbekistan has traversed a long and meaningful path of development. Today, we witness a country that is confidently unlocking its economic potential, consistently pursuing comprehensive reforms, and increasingly integrating into the global economy.

The scale and dynamics of the transformations witnessed in recent years are particularly impressive. The openness of the economy, the development of private entrepreneurship, the continuous improvement of the investment climate, alongside digitalisation and the modernization of the financial sector, create new opportunities for the sustainable economic growth of the country.

For “Shinhan Financial Group”, it is uniquely valuable to have the opportunity to be a part of this process.

We view Uzbekistan not only as a promising market, but above all as a reliable and long-term partner, with whom we are bound by trust, mutual respect and a shared commitment to the further development of economic relations between our two nations.

We are convinced that a robust and modern financial system is one of the most critical foundations for sustainable economic development. It establishes the necessary conditions for entrepreneurial growth, the execution of investment projects, the deployment of innovations and the emergence of new opportunities for individuals and corporations alike.

This is precisely why we strive to expand our presence and cooperation in Uzbekistan, drawing upon the international expertise of “Shinhan” while addressing the specific needs of the local market.

I am confident that the further advancement of financial cooperation between South Korea and Uzbekistan will unlock new opportunities for business, expand investment collaboration, facilitate the introduction of modern financial and digital solutions and establish additional conditions for economic growth.

At the same time, our relations hold a significance that extends far beyond the scope of financial cooperation. South Korea and Uzbekistan are bound by special ties of friendship and mutual trust, which are consistently strengthened through active dialogue and joint initiatives.

We highly appreciate the contribution of the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, to implementing large-scale reforms and establishing conditions for the open and dynamic development of the country. These transformations contribute to strengthening the international standing of Uzbekistan and create a solid foundation for expanding cooperation with foreign partners.

I am convinced that our countries have many opportunities for collaboration ahead. The economic potential of Uzbekistan, its young generation, its drive for innovation, and openness to new ideas, combined with the technological and financial capabilities of South Korea, are poised to become a strong foundation for new joint achievements.

“Shinhan Financial Group” intends to continue serving as a reliable partner to Uzbekistan, facilitating the development of the financial sector, supporting entrepreneurship and contributing to the strengthening of economic ties between our nations.

On this auspicious day, I sincerely wish the people of Uzbekistan peace, well-being, unity and prosperity.

May an independent Uzbekistan confidently continue its path of development, achieve new successes and unlock ever-greater opportunities for its citizens and future generations.

I wish for the further strengthening of friendship and strategic partnership between South Korea and Uzbekistan.

Happy 35^th Anniversary of State Independence, Uzbekistan!