1. Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha spoke by phone with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Turkmenistan Rashid Meredov on August 1. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Meredov congratulated Minister Kang on her inauguration, and hoped that the ROK and Turkmenistan will continue to closely communicate to enhance the relations between the two countries.

2. The two Ministers expressed satisfaction over the fact that the mutually-beneficial partnership between the two countries, which mark the 25th anniversary of diplomatic relations this year, has significantly expanded in a range of areas, including political, economic and cultural affairs.

o The two Ministers took note that the leaders of the two countries exchanged congratulatory letters to mark the 25th anniversary of diplomatic relations this year, and expressed hope that friendship and mutual understanding between the people of the two countries will be further promoted through exchanges and cooperation in various sectors, including culture, performing arts, and sports.

o Furthermore, the two Ministers noted that substantive cooperation between the two countries has continuously increased, and that especially Korean companies in the energy and infrastructure sectors are contributing to the national development of Turkmenistan.

3. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Meredov asked the ROK side to actively participate in and support the “5th Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games,” to be held in Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan, from September 17 to 27 this year.

o Minister Kang said that about 100 Korean athletes will take part in the Games, and wished the Turkmen side success in hosting the Games so that they can serve as an opportunity to further enhance Turkmenistan’s global status.

o Minister Kang also asked the Turkmen side for interest in the PyeongChang 2018 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, including participation of Turkmen athletes.


* unofficial translation