Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- On 15 July 2021, in Tashkent, representatives of the United States of America, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan and Pakistan decided to create a new quadripartite platform for consultations.

Noting the timeliness and relevance of the International Conference “Central and South Asia: Regional Interconnectedness. Challenges and Opportunities”, the parties believe that regional connectivity is important for the establishment of long-term peace and stability in Afghanistan and the region, and also agreed that peace and regional connectivity are mutually reinforcing factors.

The full text of this statement reads:

Representatives from the United States, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan and Pakistan have generally agreed to establish a new quadripartite diplomatic platform aimed at enhancing regional connectivity.

The parties believe that long-term peace and stability in Afghanistan is critical to regional connectivity and share the same view that peace and regional ties are mutually reinforcing.

Recognizing the historic opportunity to further develop efficient international trade routes, the parties hope to work together to expand trade, create transit routes and strengthen business ties.

The parties agreed to meet in the coming months to determine the terms of this cooperation by mutual consensus.