The foreign ministers of Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, along with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, met in the C5+1 format in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, on Oct. 19. Discussions focused on expanding trade and economic ties, attracting investment, developing transport corridors and cooperation in the energy sector, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan reported.
Economic issues included expanding mutual trade, creating favorable conditions for business activity and attracting investment. Particular attention was given to improving transport and logistics connectivity, including the Trans-Caspian International Transport Corridor, deepening regional economic integration and expanding industrial cooperation.
In the energy sector, discussions covered the extraction and processing of natural resources, the development of value-added production chains and expanding opportunities to export finished products to international markets. The participants also highlighted the importance of exchanging expertise and advanced technologies to improve the competitiveness of regional economies.
Digital economy development and the adoption of artificial intelligence were also key topics. The agenda included attracting investment in digital infrastructure, implementing information technology and cybersecurity projects, automating production processes and training highly skilled professionals. Participants noted the potential of artificial intelligence to stimulate economic growth and improve the efficiency of public administration.
The political discussions focused on strengthening long-term cooperation based on respect for sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, as well as mutual trust and consideration of shared interests. The participants emphasized the importance of good-neighborly relations and joint initiatives aimed at the sustainable development of Central Asia.
In the humanitarian sphere, the participants discussed opportunities to expand educational and cultural exchanges, promote tourism and preserve historical and cultural heritage.
Following the meeting, the foreign ministers of Central Asian countries and the United States adopted a joint statement reaffirming their interest in further developing the C5+1 format as a platform for political dialogue and practical cooperation.
