Shavkat Mirziyoyev Proposes the Creation of a Central Asia Community

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — At the VII Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia, the regional leaders unanimously supported the inclusion of the Republic of Azerbaijan in the meeting format as a full participant.

President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev emphasized that this decision marks a new stage of integration, creating a unified space for interaction between Central Asia and the South Caucasus.

In his address, the head of state outlined the key directions for the further development of the region.

Regional Integration

The President noted that Central Asia has moved in recent years from dialogue to genuine partnership: territorial issues have been resolved, borders opened, and cooperation in energy, transport, and trade is expanding. Mutual trade has reached US$10.7 billion, and investments have grown by 17 percent, Mirziyoyev highlighted.

Institutional Strengthening

Uzbekistan proposed transforming the meeting format into a strategic platform, the “Central Asia Community,” creating a permanent Secretariat and Council of Elders, as well as elevating the status of national coordinators, thereby institutionalizing years of regional cooperation.

Economy and Investment

According to the President, the countries of the region are capable of increasing mutual trade by 1.5–2 times. Proposals include adopting a Regional Program for Trade and Economic Cooperation through 2035, drafting a Declaration on a Common Investment Space, and jointly promoting e-commerce.

Infrastructure and Transport

Mirziyoyev called for consolidated efforts to implement major infrastructure projects, including the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway, the Trans-Afghan corridor, and the expansion of Trans-Caspian routes. He proposed establishing an Infrastructure Development Council to coordinate these initiatives.

Security and Afghanistan

The meeting addressed the Concept of Regional Security and a Risk Catalogue. The head of state emphasized the importance of involving Afghanistan in regional energy and transport projects and proposed making the “Fergana Peace Forum” an annual international event.

Climate and Water Resources

Uzbekistan proposed declaring 2026–2036 the Decade of Practical Actions for the Rational Use of Water in Central Asia and establishing a Regional Competence Center for Water Management.

Humanitarian Sphere

The President highlighted the importance of scientific and cultural exchange. Initiatives include an annual International Congress on Spiritual Heritage, the creation of a Scientific Research Fund, and the promotion of a UN General Assembly resolution recognizing the contributions of regional thinkers.

Concluding his speech, Mirziyoyev emphasized the unity of the Central Asian countries: “Our strength lies in unity. Our path to success lies in friendship and cooperation.”

During the summit, Uzbekistan congratulated Turkmenistan on assuming the chairmanship of the new “Central Asia and Azerbaijan” format and reaffirmed its readiness to provide comprehensive support.