The United States and Central Asian Countries Strengthen Economic Partnership

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The United States and the five Central Asian countries — Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan — on the occasion of the tenth anniversary of the creation of the C5+1 diplomatic platform reaffirmed their commitment to expanding economic cooperation and integrating the region into the global economy.

In a joint statement, the parties emphasized that the strengthening of trade and investment ties among the C5+1 countries has led to a growth in trade turnover and the attraction of investments totaling tens of billions of dollars. Special attention was given to the development of the B5+1 initiative, which brings together business communities from Central Asia and the United States.

“The United States supports the efforts of Central Asian countries to strengthen their sovereignty, independence, and economic resilience through the development of mutually beneficial cooperation,” the U.S. Department of State stated.

Among the priorities are improving the business climate, protecting investor rights, fostering IT startups, and promoting innovation. The parties also agreed to strengthen the legal framework for resolving commercial disputes and to implement international production standards.

Particular emphasis was placed on the development of trade and investment in the energy sector and critical minerals, as well as on deepening cooperation in civil nuclear energy, digitalization, and artificial intelligence.

Work will continue under the C5+1 Critical Minerals Dialogue, aimed at developing exploration, extraction, and processing of high-value-added mineral resources.

The parties also plan to develop the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, which they believe will enhance supply chain resilience and strengthen the region’s logistical connectivity with global markets.

The next C5+1 forum is scheduled to take place in Bishkek in February 2026, serving as a platform to discuss ways to expand trade, investment, and innovation between Central Asia and the United States.