As earlier reported, Uzbek President Islam Karimov will pay a state visit to Korea on 10-12 February to discuss bilateral and international issues. The trip was planned to reciprocate President Lee Myung-bak’s visit to Uzbekistan in May last year.

While in Seoul, Karimov is expected to explore the possibility of joint economic projects and other ways for promoting bilateral cooperation when he meets President Lee next Thursday.

The cooperation is to include projects such as joint efforts to develop a gas field in Surgil of Uzbekistan and refurbish Navoi airport to turn it into an international logistical hub. Areas of agriculture, environment and culture may also see further cooperation between the two nations.

Uzbek President Islam Karimov will also meet Prime Minister Chung Un-chan, National Assembly Speaker Kim Hyong-o, Finance Minister Yoon Jeung-hyun, and other political and business leaders during his visit.