UK–Central Asia Foreign Ministers’ Summit to Be Held in London

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — A foreign ministers’ summit in the UK–Central Asia format is to be held in London, bringing together the foreign ministers of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.

The event will take place on February 26 under the chairmanship of UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper. It marks the first joint meeting in this format since the Central Asian countries gained independence in 1991.

The summit opens new opportunities for strengthening bilateral and regional ties. For the United Kingdom, the meeting with Central Asian ministers will serve as a platform for reaching agreements in key areas, including critical minerals, higher education, and green economic growth. The initiatives aim to stimulate economic development, diversify supply chains, and enhance the region’s resilience.

Particular attention at the summit will be devoted to UK-Uzbekistan cooperation, including in education and academic exchanges. Plans include expanding English-language educational programs, supporting scientific research, and launching green transition projects that will create new opportunities for Uzbek students, researchers, and businesses.

The British side emphasizes that the UK’s engagement reflects its commitment to supporting the independence and economic security of the region’s countries, while also contributing to Central Asia’s long-term prosperity.

The summit is expected to further deepen the UK-Uzbekistan partnership, with a focus on delivering sustainable outcomes in the areas of economics, education, and security.