Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and President of the Republic of Korea Lee Jae Myung held talks in an expanded format. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Sputnik Kazakhstan.
The head of state expressed gratitude to President Lee Jae Myung for the invitation to Korea and noted the special significance of this visit.
"We know Korea well as a state with high international prestige. The enormous achievements of your country in the economy, science and technology are recognized throughout the world, including by Kazakhstan. I spoke earlier about General Hong Beom-do. For your people, the general's place is especially important. The general's name was given to one of the streets in the city of Kyzylorda, and a memorial complex was also opened," Tokayev said.
The head of state drew attention to the fact that cooperation between the two countries is developing at an unprecedented pace. He touched on the prospects for revitalizing trade and economic ties.
"There are good results in every area of our relations. To date, Korea has invested more than 12 billion dollars in Kazakhstan's economy. World-famous Korean companies are successfully operating in the Kazakh market. We are creating all conditions for them. This will continue in the future," Tokayev said.
According to the president, cultural and humanitarian ties between the two countries are also strengthening year by year. Last year, about 51 thousand Korean citizens visited Kazakhstan.
The President of the Republic of Korea thanked Kassym-Jomart Tokayev for helping return the remains of national hero General Hong Beom-do to Korea five years ago, saying the Korean people will not forget this noble deed and highly appreciate it.
Lee Jae Myung stated that the foreign policy orientations of the two countries are similar and confirmed his commitment to further deepening bilateral cooperation.
"Korea and Kazakhstan are expanding the scope of cooperation in foreign policy and adhere to pragmatic diplomacy focused on national interests and concrete results. Your country is rich not only in energy and natural resources, but also has great potential in promising high-tech sectors. We are ready to contribute to the modernization of Kazakhstan's industry through our advanced digital technologies for production," the South Korean president said.
According to him, in a period of uncertain international situation, the two countries must combine efforts and potential to strengthen cooperation. They also need to find new opportunities for economic growth on a mutually beneficial basis.