South Korea and Tajikistan are set to enhance cooperation in the critical mineral supply chain and the industrial and technological sectors. Discussions are underway to establish a regular cooperation channel in the industrial sector and to sign a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the two countries during the first Korea-Central Asia Summit scheduled for September.
The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy announced that Deputy Minister Moon Shin-hak met with Isozon Kurbonzoda, the First Deputy Minister of Industry and New Technologies of Tajikistan, in Seoul on August 11. They discussed industrial and economic achievements related to the upcoming summit on September 16 and explored cooperation plans for critical minerals between the two nations.
During the summit, the two sides will also discuss the establishment of a regular cooperation channel called the 'C5+Korea Industrial Ministers' Meeting,' which will involve the industrial ministers of South Korea and the five Central Asian countries: Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Kyrgyzstan.
Additionally, they discussed the signing of an MOU to promote mutually beneficial cooperation in the industrial and technological sectors between South Korea and Tajikistan. They exchanged views on expanding exchanges and cooperation among major business leaders from both countries during the 'Korea-Central Asia Business Summit' held during the summit.
Expanding cooperation in the critical mineral supply chain was also a key agenda item.
Prior to the Korea-Central Asia Summit, South Korea and Tajikistan will hold the inaugural 'Korea-Tajikistan Mineral Forum' in Seoul on August 12.
Tajikistan is rich in various mineral resources, including gold, silver, and antimony. The Ministry anticipates that this forum will help identify practical cooperation projects by linking Tajikistan's resource potential with South Korea's mineral exploration, development technology, and demand.
The forum will involve participation from government officials, specialized institutions, and businesses from both countries. Attendees will discuss policies on critical minerals, joint exploration opportunities, investment and financing, and supply chain development.
Deputy Minister Moon stated, "Central Asian countries, including Tajikistan, are important partners with abundant resources and growth potential. We will work to materialize the cooperation projects discussed in this meeting into tangible outcomes in the areas of industry, supply chains, and critical minerals during the Korea-Central Asia Summit in September."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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