Welcoming the guest, the head of Uzbekistan noted that he respected him not only as the South Korean foreign minister but also as a political figure, who greatly contributed to developing Uzbek-Korean relations.

"We highly rate cooperation with South Korea. Your visit is another evidence of the steady development of cooperation between our states in all spheres," Islom Karimov said.

Uzbekistan’s cooperation with South Korea is based on mutual friendship and trust, respect and interest.

Song Min-soon thanked Uzbek president for sincere reception and noted that South Korea was a supporter of the steady development of cooperation with Uzbekistan in all spheres.

During the talks, the sides exchanged views on further strengthening large-scale cooperation between Uzbekistan and South Korea as well as on other issues that the sides were interested in.