By Diplomacy Journal Lee Kap-soo

The Daejeon Chamber of Commerce and Industry hosted a luncheon meeting with local businesspeople on Aug. 8 at the Yuseong Hotel Intercity, inviting Uzbek Ambassador to Korea Alisher Abdusalomov.

The meeting began with a video introducing the investment environment between the Daejeon Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Uzbekistan, followed by a free discussion on cooperation opportunities between companies from both countries.

In particular, discussions focused on potential cooperation in areas such as satellite production and services, water purification projects, and high-speed train construction. Local companies also proposed streamlining tax benefits and improving customs clearance procedures for companies operating in Uzbekistan.

In his welcoming address, Chairman Jeong Tae-hee emphasized, "Uzbekistan has tremendous growth potential, thanks to its abundant natural resources and young population." He added, "Daejeon, a city known as the science capital, boasts a high concentration of excellent government-funded research institutes, high-tech companies, and universities. This will enable significant synergy in technological, talent, and industrial cooperation between our two countries."

Ambassador Alisher Abdusalomov responded, "Korea and Uzbekistan have maintained friendly relations for over 30 years since establishing diplomatic relations, and mutual investment is particularly active in the economic sector."

He added, "The Uzbek government plans to actively support the expansion of trade in goods, technological cooperation, and people-to-people exchanges. Companies interested in expanding or investing in the Uzbek market are encouraged to contact the embassy for assistance."