Tajikistan and South Korea plan to strengthen cooperation on critical minerals — Korea Herald

Tajikistan and South Korea plan to deepen economic cooperation in critical minerals, investment and transport connectivity after establishing a comprehensive partnership between the countries. This was reported by the Korea Herald, citing Tajikistan’s ambassador to South Korea, Salohiddin Kirom.

The diplomat spoke at a reception in Seoul marking the 35th anniversary of Tajikistan’s independence. He described the upgrade in bilateral relations as a “qualitative breakthrough” and identified critical minerals and the mining industry as priority areas for partnership.

Supplies for technology industries

According to Kirom, Tajikistan can help South Korea diversify supply chains for high-tech industries, semiconductor production and electric vehicle batteries. The ambassador said the country is ready to become a reliable long-term strategic supplier, citing reserves of strategic non-ferrous and rare metals.

Kirom also mentioned the Korean companies LS, GBI and Rexgen, which are entering the Tajik market. In his view, their activities indicate growing business interest in Tajikistan.

More current news is available on the UA.News Telegram channel Telegram.

Agreements in Seoul

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung and Tajikistan President Emomali Rahmon established the first comprehensive partnership between the countries during talks in Seoul on September 16. Rahmon’s visit was his first trip to South Korea in 11 years.

Following the summit, the sides concluded 17 agreements and memorandums of understanding on railway and transport infrastructure, trade, digital technologies, public administration and other areas. Critical minerals were also identified as an area for further cooperation.

The bilateral talks were held alongside the first South Korea–Central Asia summit, attended by the leaders of all five countries in the region. The six countries adopted the Seoul Declaration on institutionalizing partnership, peace and stability, innovation and prosperity, as well as strengthening people-to-people ties and trust.

Tajikistan’s ambassador also called for stronger transport links between the countries. According to him, South Korean citizens can stay in Tajikistan visa-free for up to 30 days, and the sides are working to launch direct commercial flights.