Fergana regional administration

As part of the visit, a meeting was held with Mayor Kim Sang Uk. During the warm and substantive talks, the two sides exchanged views on enriching the relations established between Fergana and Ulsan within a relatively short period with concrete projects and new initiatives, as well as taking cooperation to a new level.

Ulsan is often referred to as Korea’s “industrial capital,” and for good reason. Automotive manufacturing, shipbuilding and the petrochemical industry are the main pillars of the city’s economy. At the same time, Ulsan is actively developing hydrogen energy, offshore wind power, future mobility and advanced energy technologies as new drivers of growth.

Another noteworthy aspect of Ulsan’s experience is its commitment to achieving a balance between industrial development and environmental sustainability. A striking example is the Taehwagang River, which once suffered significantly from industrial pollution but, following extensive restoration, has become one of the city’s most important ecological spaces.

Although the history of relations between Fergana and Ulsan is relatively recent, it has already gained substantial practical content. In March 2025, a protocol of intent on developing friendly ties and cooperation between the two regions was signed in Fergana. In October of the same year, an agreement establishing sister-region relations was concluded in Ulsan, bringing bilateral ties to a new level.

Today, these documents are not merely agreements on paper. A system for training specialists based on Korean standards is being established in Fergana. Young people from Fergana are working at Ulsan’s shipbuilding enterprises, gaining experience in modern technologies, production culture and high industrial standards. This demonstrates the strengthening of one of the most important links connecting the two regions — human capital and mutual trust.

During the meeting, particular attention was paid to further expanding the scope of cooperation. The parties discussed prospects for bringing Ulsan’s advanced industrial expertise and technologies to Fergana, establishing industrial cooperation between enterprises, and developing joint projects in automotive manufacturing and future mobility, energy and green industry.

An initiative to hold “Ulsan Days” in Fergana was also proposed with the aim of bringing the people of the two regions closer together and strengthening cultural and humanitarian ties.

“We regard the documents signed between Fergana and Ulsan not merely as diplomatic agreements, but as a solid foundation for long-term friendship and economic and technological partnership. Most importantly, our people, young people and entrepreneurs should feel the tangible benefits of this friendship,” Khayrullo Bozorov said.

Fergana and Ulsan are separated by thousands of kilometers. Yet today, shared goals — development, advanced technologies, new opportunities for young people and mutually beneficial cooperation — are bringing the two regions ever closer together.

At the conclusion of the meeting, measures were identified to further develop cooperation through the preparation of a dedicated roadmap.