On January 5, a telephone conversation was held between the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev and the Acting President of the Republic of Korea Hwan Kyo-ahn at the initiative of the South Korean side, the press service of the Presidency of Uzbekistan said.

Hwan Ahn kyo congratulated Shavkat Mirziyoyev on the lanslide victory in the Dec 4, 2016 Presidential election.

The sides exchanged congratulatory messages on the ocassion of the 25th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Republic of Korea.

"Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Hwan Kyo-ahn noted with great satisfaction the high level of mutual trust, openness and mutual understanding between the two countries, which serve as the solid foundation for expansion of cooperation in political, trade-economic, financial and technical, investment, cultural and humanitarian areas", - the statement said.

The two leaders emphasized the importance of the large-scale project of Ustyurt Gas Chemical Complex at Surgil field, the official ceremony of the construction completion of which took place in May 2016 with the participation of Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Hwan Kyo-ahn. The Uzbek leader appreciated the personal contribution of the Acting President of the Republic of Korea in the implementation of the multifaceted cooperation program between the two countries.

The Presidents also exchanged views on the prospects of Uzbek-South Korean relations and expressed mutual interest in expanding the number of high-tech projects.

Shavkat Mirziyoev wished well-being and prosperity in the New Year to Hwan Kyo-ahn and the South Korean people.

In turn, the Hwan Kyo-ahn sincerely wished Shavkat Mirziyoyev huge success and achievements in his responsible duties, and to the people of Uzbekistan - peace and further progress.

Hwan Kyo-ahn invited Shavkat Mirziyoyev to visit the Republic of Korea on an official visit.

"The conversation took place in an open and friendly atmosphere", - the message concluded.