On 17 October 2025, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov received Galymzhan Koishybayev, Deputy Prime Minister and Head of the Government Office of the Republic of Kazakhstan. At the beginning of the meeting, Koishybayev conveyed greetings from President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan to the President of Turkmenistan and the National Leader of the Turkmen people. In turn, … [Read more...]
Central Asia – Rice Report
nCa Report Key Points on Rice in Central Asia Annual Consumption Evidence leans toward total regional consumption of about 1 million tons in recent years, with per-country estimates based on population and per capita data. For instance, Kyrgyzstan's consumption is around 50,000 tons (Statista: CIS Rice Consumption by Country), reflecting lower reliance on … [Read more...]
Kyrgyzstan hosted 3rd Central Asia-India Meeting of the Secretaries of the Security Councils/National Security Advisers
On 16 October, in Bishkek, the third Meeting of the Secretaries of the Security Councils/National Security Advisers in the Central Asia and India format was held under the chairmanship of the Secretary of the Security Council of the Kyrgyz Republic Baktybek Bekbolotov. This multilateral format is a continuation of broad regional cooperation in the interests of peace … [Read more...]
Report: State of E-Commerce in Central Asia
nCa Report Editor’s Note: There are certain shortcomings in this report, mainly because quite a bit of the related information and data is not available on the net. Some of the information is behind the firewalls. The difference in methodologies among the data sources is another factor. For the collation and augmentation of information and for the general heavy … [Read more...]
Digital Bridge 2025 Astana: Kazakhstan’s Leadership in the Digital Era
Derya Soysal President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev opened the Digital Bridge 2025 International Tech Forum on Oct. 2, stressing that artificial intelligence (AI) must serve humanity in a responsible and inclusive manner. The Digital Bridge International Forum took place on Oct. 2–4 in Astana. It is the largest international technology forum in Central Eurasia focused on digital … [Read more...]
The Taste of Diplomacy: How Tajikistan Charmed Leaders of Central Asian and Russia with a Spectacular Harvest Display
On 9 October 2025, President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon hosted an informal gathering—a "friendship evening"—for the heads of state participating in the Central Asia–Russia Summit and the CIS Summit at the government residence in Dushanbe. A vibrant exhibition of Tajikistan’s agricultural products and national cuisine was organized in the picturesque setting of the … [Read more...]
A firm commitment to partnership and alliance: Putin on Strengthening Russia-Central Asia Ties
On October 9, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed the second Central Asia–Russia summit in Dushanbe, reaffirming Russia's dedication to strengthening strategic partnerships and alliances with Central Asian states—Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. The speech highlighted the immense potential for economic cooperation, outlining key … [Read more...]
Transport, Nuclear Energy, Industrial Cooperation: Uzbekistan’s President Names Partnership Priorities for Central Asia and Russia
At Dushanbe Summit on Thursday, 9 October 2025, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev called on the countries of Central Asia and Russia for closer coordination and cooperation in the six-sided format, urged by "growing geopolitical tension and crisis phenomena in the world economy." In this context, the leader of Uzbekistan outlined his vision for the prospects of … [Read more...]
Trade, Transport, Energy, and Security: Initiatives of the President of Kazakhstan at the Central Asia – Russia Summit
Trade with Russia accounts for one-third of the total trade turnover of the Central Asian countries, announced President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev while addressing the Central Asia – Russia Summit in Tajikistan. "It is gratifying that the situation in the Central Asian region itself has evolved in recent years towards political solidarity, economic cooperation, and … [Read more...]
Central Asia – Russia Summit: Kyrgyz President Highlights Positive Shift in Central Asian Security Situation
For Kyrgyzstan, the Central Asian countries and Russia invariably remain key partners. This format serves as a practical tool for deepening comprehensive partnership, stated President Sadyr Japarov of the Kyrgyz Republic at the Second Central Asia – Russia Summit in Dushanbe. Speaking about the current international situation, Sadyr Japarov noted that the meeting was … [Read more...]
President of Tajikistan Chaired the Second “Central Asia–Russia” Summit in Dushanbe
On 9 October 2025, under the chairmanship of the President of the Republic of Tajikistan, Emomali Rahmon, the Second “Central Asia–Russia” Summit was held at the Government Residence in Dushanbe. The summit brought together the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, the President of the Kyrgyz Republic Sadyr Japarov, the President of the Russian … [Read more...]
Central Asia – Russia Summit: Turkmenistan’s President Calls for a Return Civilized Communication in International Relations
On 9 October 2025, the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, addressed the Second Central Asia – Russia Summit in Dushanbe, which was held under the chairmanship of Tajikistan. President Berdimuhamedov underscored the importance of the Second Summit as a step towards transitioning cooperation in this format onto a systemic basis, reflecting an objective process … [Read more...]
Communiqué of the Dushanbe Summit: Central Asia and Russia Reaffirm Commitment to Multipolarity and Strategic Partnership
On 9 October 2025, the Central Asia–Russia Summit was held in Dushanbe under the chairmanship of President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon. The summit was attended by the heads of state of Central Asia and Russia: President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon, President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, President of Kyrgyzstan Sadyr Japarov, President of Russia Vladimir Putin, … [Read more...]
Report: China and Central Asia Railway Connections
nCa-AI Collaborative Report Key Points Current Railway Connections The primary links are at Alashankou-Dostyk and Khorgos-Altynkol, both on the China-Kazakhstan border. These handle the vast majority of rail cargo between China and Central Asia. A third crossing, Bakhty-Chuguchak, is being developed to increase capacity. No direct rail connections exist yet to … [Read more...]
National Leader of Turkmenistan Calls for Coordinated Action by OTS on Global Stage
At the 12th Summit of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) held in Gabala on 7 October 2025, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, delivered a speech emphasizing key aspects of cooperation among Turkic states and Turkmenistan’s role in promoting peace, stability, and cultural … [Read more...]
OTS Summit: Turkic States Adopt Gabala Declaration, Pledge Deeper Strategic Partnership, Establish OTS+ cooperation mechanism
Hosted by the President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, the 12th Summit of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) was held on 7 October 2025 in Gabala under the theme “Regional Peace and Security.” The Summit was attended by: The Chairman and Members of the Council of Elders of the OTS, as well as the Heads of the Turkic Cooperation Organizations, were also in … [Read more...]
Central Asia Wheat Situation Report: Season 2024-2025
nCa Report Executive Summary The wheat situation in Central Asia for the 2024-2025 agricultural season presents a generally positive outlook despite significant climate challenges. The region successfully completed autumn sowing under favorable conditions, achieved average to above-average harvests in most countries, and experienced robust export demand, particularly from … [Read more...]
Dushanbe to host CIS and “Central Asia–Russia” Summits
On 9–10 October 2025, Dushanbe, Tajikistan, will host a series of high-level meetings in the formats of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and Central Asia: • Summit of Heads of State in the “Central Asia–Russia” format• Meeting of the CIS Council of Heads of State• Meeting of the CIS Council of Foreign Ministers On 9 October, the Presidents of Tajikistan, … [Read more...]
Central Asian Leaders at UN General Assembly: Urgent Call to Protect Glaciers and Water Resources
At the 80th session of the UN General Assembly, Central Asian leaders issued a stark warning about the rapid melting of glaciers, which threatens water and food security for millions. The Presidents of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan proposed bold initiatives, including international forums and new institutions, to avert an impending … [Read more...]
ADB Cuts Developing Asia Growth Outlook Amid Trade Tensions, But Central Asia Stays Robust
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is trimming its growth outlook for developing Asia and the Pacific by 0.1 and 0.2 percentage points for this year and next, respectively, amid the emergence of a new global trade environment, shaped by tariffs and updated trade agreements. Economies in the region are projected to grow by 4.8% this year and 4.5% next year, according … [Read more...]
Political Evolution of Kazakhstan
The turmoil of January 2022 posed a significant and unique challenge for Kazakhstan. After the situation was brought under control, analysts both domestically and internationally voiced concerns that the political system might shift toward stricter governance and tightened control, as is common following political crises.However, time has proven these concerns unfounded. … [Read more...]
Kazakhstan: Advancing Toward Democratic Progress
Kazakhstan has navigated a series of transformative challenges in recent years that could have prompted a retreat from reformist ambitions. Under President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s leadership, the nation has encountered significant disruptions, both global and domestic, with the events of January 2022 standing out as a pivotal moment. While such crises often lead to stricter … [Read more...]
VIII Congress of World Religions Convened in Kazakhstan to Forge ‘Synergy for the Future’ Amid Global Tensions
Introduction The VIII Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions convened in Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan, on September 17-18, 2025. Chaired by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, this international forum brought together more than 100 delegations from approximately 60 countries. Participants included spiritual leaders from major faiths such as Islam, … [Read more...]
EBRD gives positive outlook for Central Asian economies
Anton Usov The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) expects the Central Asian economies of Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Mongolia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan to grow by 6.1 per cent on average in 2025, according to its latest Regional Economic Prospects report. This solid growth is supported by strong industrial output, robust domestic … [Read more...]
3rd Central Asia Inter-Parliamentary Forum Held in Bishkek
On 23 September 2025, the 3rd Inter-Parliamentary Forum of Central Asian States was held in Bishkek under the theme “Parliaments of Central Asian Countries: Effective Solutions for Comprehensive Regional Development.” Opening the forum, Speaker of the Jogorku Kenesh (Parliament of Kyrgyzstan) Nurlanbek Shakiev emphasized that in a short period, the forum has become the … [Read more...]
Central Asia: Where Privilege Meets Global Responsibility
Tariq Saeedi and Elvira Kadyrova In the vast expanse of the Eurasian landmass, Central Asia occupies a position that is both geographically central and strategically pivotal. This region, encompassing Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, possesses a constellation of unique characteristics that distinguish it from any other part of the … [Read more...]
Second Ministerial Dialogue “Central Asia + Japan” on Economy and Energy Held in Tokyo
On 16 September 2025, the Second Ministerial Dialogue on Economy and Energy in the “Central Asia + Japan” format took place in Tokyo, chaired by Japan’s Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, Yoji Muto. The meeting brought together high-level representatives from Central Asian countries and Japan: - Yoji Muto, Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry of Japan; - … [Read more...]
Ashgabat Hosts Meeting of the Working Group on Caspian Sea Issues
On 15 September 2025, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan launched the eleventh session of the High-Level Working Group (HLWG) on Caspian Sea issues. Delegations from Turkmenistan (headed by M.G. Atajanov), the Republic of Azerbaijan (headed by S.A. Sharifov), the Islamic Republic of Iran (headed by K.G. Abadi), the Republic of Kazakhstan (headed by Z.A. … [Read more...]
The EU flagship initiative Border Management Programme in Central Asia holds the Closing Conference of the 10th Phase in Kyrgyzstan
On 5 September 2025, the EU-funded Border Management Programme in Central Asia (BOMCA 10) marked the completion of its 10th phase with a Closing Conference held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. The conference served as the final milestone in the Programme’s journey, drawing conclusions, reviewing achievements and discussing the future direction of EU–Central Asia cooperation in the … [Read more...]
Tashkent hosts First Ever International Forum of Children’s Ombudsmen of Central Asian Countries
On 11–12 September 2025, Tashkent is hosting the first ever International Forum of Central Asian Commissioners for Children’s Rights under the title of “Current issues in strengthening mechanisms for the protection of children's rights in Central Asian countries: regional cooperation among Children's Rights Commissioners.” The event is organized by the Children’s Ombudsman of … [Read more...]
EDB and India Exim Bank Analyze Trade and Investment Relations Between India and Central Asia
Mutual trade between India and Central Asian countries has grown from $500 million in 2010 to $1.7 billion, following an upward trajectory. This is highlighted in an analytical report titled “Exploring Trade and Investment Relations between India and Central Asia: Unlocking Economic Benefits.” The report was jointly prepared by the Eurasian Development Bank (EABR) and the … [Read more...]
Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan Strengthen Interregional Ties
A delegation from Turkmenistan's Balkan province, led by the governor Khojamyrat Ashirmyradov, paid a visit to Kazakhstan's Mangystau region. During the visit, a meeting was held on 28 August with the Akim (governor) of the region, Nurdaulet Kilybay. According to the press service of the Akim of the Mangystau region, the parties discussed the Strategic Partnership … [Read more...]
Roadmap to Boost Trade: How Bishkek and Astana Strengthen Economic Ties
On 22 August 2025, during the official visit of President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to the Kyrgyz Republic and summit talks with President Sadyr Japarov, a series of bilateral documents were signed aimed at further strengthening cooperation between the two countries across various domains, from economy and trade to culture and security. This recent … [Read more...]
From Zhanaozen to Turkmenistan: Major Road Modernization to Boost Trade and Tourism Ties Between Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan
In Kazakhstan’s Mangistau Region, which borders Turkmenistan, a large-scale modernization of the highway connecting the city of Zhanaozen to the Turkmen-Kazakh border has started, according to the “24KZ” TV channel. The 164-kilometer-long road is a vital transportation artery linking Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan. Medium-level repairs are being carried out on 114 kilometers of … [Read more...]
New Transboundary Tourism Route to Connect Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan
A new transboundary circular tourism route covering Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan (Khorezm and Karakalpakstan), and Kazakhstan has been developed, according to Uzbek media reports. The route connects four regions of Central Asia, offering travelers a diverse cultural and educational program. It was designed by Uzbekistan’s Tourism Committee in collaboration with relevant … [Read more...]
Water as a Strategic Resource: Central Asian Countries Discuss Challenges and Solutions at the 90th ICWC Meeting in Kazakhstan
On 14 August 2025, the 90th meeting of the Interstate Commission for Water Coordination (ICWC), comprising Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, took place in the resort town of Borovoe, Republic of Kazakhstan. Participants addressed key issues of water resource management in the Syr Darya and Amu Darya river basins, as well as progress in … [Read more...]
Kazakhstani Business Delegation Visits Ashgabat: New Steps Toward Industrial Cooperation
A business delegation from the Republic of Kazakhstan, led by Deputy Chairman of the Committee for Industry of the Ministry of Industry and Construction of Kazakhstan, Mukhammed Andakov, visited Ashgabat. The delegation included representatives from around 20 Kazakhstani companies operating in key sectors such as mechanical engineering, automotive manufacturing, mining and … [Read more...]
President of Turkmenistan Meets with President of Kazakhstan in Awaza
On 5 August 2025, as part of his visit to Turkmenistan, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev held a meeting with President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC3), currently being held in Awaza. During the discussion, President … [Read more...]
“Geography Does Not Determine Destiny”: President of Kazakhstan on the Potential of Landlocked Developing Countries
On 5 August 2025, speaking at the UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs) in Awaza, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev thanked President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov for the initiative to convene the conference and expressed gratitude to UN Secretary-General António Guterres for his commitment to addressing the challenges and realizing the opportunities … [Read more...]
National Leader of the Turkmen People Meets with President of Kazakhstan
On 4 August 2025, in Turkmenbashi, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, met with the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, who arrived in Turkmenistan to participate in the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries. It was noted that the … [Read more...]
Unmanned Freight Transport at the Border: Kazakhstan and China Launch “Smart Customs” to Boost Multimillion-Dollar Trade Turnover
As part of strengthening Kazakh-Chinese economic cooperation, an innovative pilot project, "Smart Customs," has been launched at the border checkpoints of "Bakhty" (Kazakhstan) and "Pokitu" (China). The project aims to enhance efficiency and digitalize customs logistics, with the introduction of unmanned freight transport as its key component, according to the Ministry of … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan prepares for its WTO accession process
As Turkmenistan gets ready for its negotiations to join the World Trade Organization, a high-level delegation travelled to its neighbouring country Kazakhstan to learn from their experience. Kazakhstan joined the World Trade Organizion (WTO) in 2015, which means its advice can help orient Turkmenistan strategically for the complex process that goes along with joining the … [Read more...]
“Children of the CIS” in Belarus: A Kaleidoscope of Central Asian Cultures
The Republic of Belarus is hosting the “Children of the Commonwealth of Independent States” forum, bringing together young delegates from Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. Organized by the Interparliamentary Assembly of the CIS and the Council of the Republic of the National Assembly of the Republic of Belarus with … [Read more...]
EU and Central Asia Strengthen Strategic Partnership at 12th High-Level Dialogue in Dushanbe
The European Union (EU) and Central Asian nations—Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan—convened in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, for the 12th High-Level Political and Security Dialogue, reinforcing their growing strategic partnership, according to the EU Delegation to Tajikistan. The meeting, held on 11 July, followed the 20th EU-Central Asia Ministerial … [Read more...]
Kazakhstan and Afghanistan to Strengthen Connectivity Between Central and South Asia — Memorandum Signed on the Torghundi–Herat Railway Construction
The Ministry of Transport of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Ministry of Public Works of Afghanistan have signed a Memorandum of Understanding outlining the fundamental principles for the construction and operation of a railway linking Central and South Asia. The document was signed in Kabul following negotiations between the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign … [Read more...]
KTZ Express and AD Ports Group Launch GulfLink: A New Momentum for Central Asian Logistics
JSC "KTZ Express" and the UAE-based AD Ports Group have officially announced the launch of GulfLink Ltd., a joint venture registered in Kazakhstan. GulfLink has been established to develop international multimodal routes linking Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, with a focus on enhancing the resilience, flexibility, and efficiency of global logistics chains. According to … [Read more...]
Central Asian Ambassadors Discuss Cooperation Priorities with the European Commission in Brussels
A meeting was held in Brussels between Mr. Peteris Ustubs, Regional Director of the Directorate-General for International Partnerships (DG INTPA) of the European Commission, and ambassadors of Central Asian countries accredited to the European Union. The meeting focused on reviewing the outcomes of the first “Central Asia – EU” Summit and preparing for upcoming events, … [Read more...]
Kazakhstan to Invest $500 Million in Torghundi–Herat Railway Project, Says Afghanistan
Kazakhstan plans to invest in the construction of the Torghundi–Herat railway line in Afghanistan. This was announced by Kazakhstan’s Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov during a meeting with Afghanistan’s Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs, Abdul Ghani Baradar. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the Economic Cooperation Organization Summit in Khankendi, … [Read more...]
Telephone Conversation Between the Foreign Ministers of Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan: Prospects for Bilateral Cooperation and Preparations for LLDC3 Discussed
On 2 July 2025, a telephone conversation took place between the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Rashid Meredov, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan, Murat Nurtleu. The foreign ministers discussed the current state and future prospects of bilateral cooperation, as well as collaboration within regional and international organizations. Both sides … [Read more...]
Astana Declaration of the Second Central Asia-China Summit
The second China-Central Asia Summit was held in Astana, capital of Kazakhstan, on June 17, 2025. The full text of the Astana Declaration of the Second Central Asia-China Summit is given below. Astana Declaration of the Second Central Asia-China Summit On June 17, 2025, the second Central Asia-China summit was held in Astana with the participation of the President … [Read more...]