South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol expressed his support for deepening economic ties with Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan during his state visit to the region. President Yoon emphasized the potential for economic synergy between South Korea, Turkmenistan, and Kazakhstan, particularly in the energy and resource development sectors. He highlighted the need for collaboration between Turkmenistan, which is the world's fourth-largest holder of natural gas, and South Korea, with its industrialization experience and advanced technology. President Yoon encouraged Korean companies to actively participate in Turkmenistan's and Kazakhstan's energy and plant projects. As part of the visit, Hyundai Engineering Co. and Daewoo Engineering & Construction Co. signed agreements with Turkmenistan's and Kazakhstan's state-run companies for various construction projects, with the combined contracts estimated to be worth approximately $6 billion. The two countries also agreed to expand direct flights and cooperation in the shipbuilding sector. President Yoon's visit to Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan is part of his three-nation Central Asia trip, which also includes Uzbekistan.
On July 4, 2024, the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, met with the President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, in Astana. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the SCO+ forum. The parties discussed a wide range of cooperation issues, focusing on key areas, existing potential, and future plans. Both countries have successful bilateral cooperation and provide mutual support within authoritative international organizations. Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan share similar positions on regional and global agendas, particularly in ensuring global peace, security, and sustainable development. [73d27883]