President Yoon Suk Yeol and Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov have agreed to elevate bilateral relations between the two countries and form a comprehensive partnership.

After a summit at the presidential office on Tuesday, the two leaders adopted a joint statement announcing the partnership.

The top office said this is a significant step for South Korea and Kyrgyzstan, which have maintained diplomatic relations for 32 years. 

Considering Kyrgyzstan’s abundant water resources and mineral deposits, the top office said Seoul expects to strengthen cooperation on renewable energy, energy efficiency and supply chains.

Japarov expressed support for what he called Yoon’s audacious road map for North Korea’s denuclearization and for the August 15 Unification Doctrine.

The Kyrgyz president also expressed support for the K-Silk Road initiative, South Korea’s strategy to strengthen ties with countries in Central Asia.