Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Uzbekistan’s Ambassador to Indonesia, Oybek Eshonov, presented his credentials to Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The ceremony marked Eshonov’s official appointment as Uzbekistan’s Permanent Representative to ASEAN, as reported by Dunyo news agency.

Following the official proceedings, a brief meeting was held, during which the ASEAN Secretary-General spoke warmly about his recent discussions with Uzbekistan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs in February 2025 in Jakarta. Kao Kim Hourn highlighted that the negotiations laid the groundwork for an effective political dialogue and multifaceted cooperation between ASEAN and Uzbekistan.

The Secretary-General also noted his keen interest in Uzbekistan’s ongoing large-scale reforms. He praised the country’s commitment to developing an advanced cooperation model and its firm determination to strengthen partnerships across various sectors.

It is worth noting that on 4 November 2024, Oybek Eshonov had previously presented his credentials to Indonesian President Subianto Prabowo. The new Uzbek ambassador brings extensive diplomatic experience. At 57, he is a graduate of the Oriental Studies Faculty of Tashkent State University (now the National University of Uzbekistan) and the Academy of State Building under the President of Uzbekistan. From 2008 to 2017, Eshonov served as Uzbekistan’s ambassador to Israel. Prior to his appointment in Indonesia, he headed the Department for Cooperation with South Asian, Middle Eastern, and African Countries at the Uzbek Foreign Ministry. He is fluent in Persian and English.

Oybek Eshonov succeeds Ulugbek Rozikulov, who led Uzbekistan’s diplomatic mission in Jakarta from 2018 to 2022 before being appointed Chairman of the Board of Uzavtosanoat.

This new appointment underscores Uzbekistan’s commitment to strengthening ties with ASEAN and expanding its international engagement in the Southeast Asian region.