Ankara: South Korean President Lee Jae Myung emphasized the importance of the 'Silk Road spirit' during the inaugural Korea-Central Asia summit held in Seoul. Lee highlighted the interconnected nature of the global economy, particularly in areas such as supply chains, energy, markets, technology, and security, and stressed the need for a collaborative approach to navigate these complexities.
According to Anadolu Agency, the summit welcomed leaders from Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan, who joined President Lee in advocating for strengthened cooperation. The summit resulted in the adoption of the Seoul Declaration, which outlines a shared vision for future collaboration in critical areas such as minerals and energy.
A memorandum of understanding was signed between South Korea and the Central Asian nations, focusing on industries and supply chains. This agreement encompasses various sectors, including industrial policies, manufacturing, infrastructure, critical minerals, energy, and digital transition, as confirmed by Seong Ghi-hong, the presidential secretary for public relations.
To implement the agreements, a consultative body of industry ministers was also established. President Lee suggested the creation of 'mutually beneficial value chains' by leveraging Central Asia's strengths in minerals, energy, agriculture, and dairy, alongside South Korea's technological capabilities.
The summit also saw the introduction of an initiative aimed at enhancing cooperation in artificial intelligence and science. President Lee underscored the extensive cooperation and trust built between South Korea and the Central Asian republics over the years, particularly in trade, investment, infrastructure, education, and culture.
Lee further sought the support of the Central Asian nations for South Korea's efforts to address the North Korean nuclear issue and to promote peace on the Korean Peninsula. Ahead of the summit, President Lee conducted bilateral meetings with his counterparts from the five Central Asian countries, resulting in agreements in various sectors, including energy and critical minerals.