SEOUL, September 14. /Dunyo IA/.   President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev has proposed that South Korea establish a “New Silk Road” for the 21^st century based on modern technologies and infrastructure, reports Dunyo IA correspondent, citing with South Korean newspaper “The Chosun Daily”.

It may be recalled that the head of state arrived in South Korea on September 13rd for a state visit ahead of the first “Republic of Korea – Central Asia” Summit, which will be held in Seoul on September 16. His talks with President of the Republic of Korea Lee Jae Myung are scheduled for today.

President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev told “The Chosun Daily” that the two countries are long-standing partners and close friends. He noted that combining South Korea’s industrial technologies with Uzbekistan’s potential and resources creates opportunities for joint development in artificial intelligence, semiconductors, electric vehicles, biopharmaceuticals and smart agriculture.

Head of State also said that Uzbekistan seeks deeper integration into global value chains, while South Korea is interested in diversifying its supply chains. In this regard, Tashkent is ready to support South Korean companies in establishing advanced manufacturing hubs covering the entire production cycle – from sourcing components to manufacturing finished products.

According to the country’s leader, cooperation between the two countries could lay the foundation for a new format of economic relations. “While the ancient Silk Road facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, knowledge and technologies, New Silk Road can be built through advanced production networks, digital infrastructure, and transport and energy corridors”, President said. 

Speaking about South Korea’s development model, Head of State noted that within a single generation, country had transformed from an agrarian economy into a leading industrial power. He also cited an Uzbek proverb: “A horse running alone does not raise dust”, underscoring that great achievements require joint efforts.