(LEAD) Leaders of S. Korea, Tajikistan agree to forge comprehensive partnership

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and Tajikistan's President Emomali Rahmon signed a comprehensive partnership agreement on September 16, during a bilateral summit in Seoul. The agreement aims to expand cooperation between the two nations in various sectors, including critical minerals, railways, and digital technology. Lee expressed optimism about the new partnership, stating that it will help strengthen the countries' cooperation in critical minerals and other areas.

Since establishing diplomatic relations in 1992, South Korea and Tajikistan have steadily developed friendly cooperation. Lee highlighted Tajikistan's rich mineral resources and high economic growth potential, pledging South Korea's proactive support for Tajikistan's economic development. Rahmon emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation with South Korea, citing their shared history of solidarity and friendship.

The two leaders signed 17 agreements during the summit, focusing primarily on economic cooperation. The new legal and institutional frameworks established will bolster bilateral relations and contribute to a mutually beneficial economic partnership. With the inaugural South Korea-Central Asia Summit underway, leaders from Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Kyrgyzstan also attended the event.