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...]
Speech by President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov at the Central Asia–China Summit
Dear Mr. President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, distinguished Heads of State of the People's Republic of China and Central Asia, distinguished members of the delegations! First of all, let me, on behalf of the delegation of Turkmenistan, thank the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, dear Kassym-Jomart Kemelevich Tokayev, for the warm welcome and hospitality. The … [Read more...]
Report – Second China-Central Asia Summit
The Second China-Central Asia Summit, convened on June 17, 2025, in Astana, Kazakhstan, marked a pivotal moment in regional diplomacy. Bringing together leaders from China and the five Central Asian nations—Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan—the summit built on the foundation laid during the inaugural meeting in Xi’an, China, in May 2023. Hosted … [Read more...]
Pakistan to launch freight train to Russia via INSTC
Pakistan will inaugurate its first freight train service to Russia from Lahore, the capital of Pakistan's eastern Punjab province, on June 22, marking a significant step in regional connectivity and international trade expansion, Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi said. Addressing a press conference in the city of Multan, Punjab, on Tuesday, Abbasi said the new … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan is exploring Kazakhstan’s path to the WTO
The Ministry of Trade and Integration of the Republic of Kazakhstan received the official delegation of Turkmenistan as part of the exchange of experience on joining the World Trade Organization (WTO), according to QazTrade Trade Policy Development Center. The Turkmen delegation was headed by Ylham Yarashov, Head of the Department of Cooperation with the WTO of the Ministry … [Read more...]
Bulgaria and Kazakhstan Strengthen Cooperation via the Trans-Caspian Route
Bulgaria and Kazakhstan are set to intensify efforts to develop the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, also known as the Middle Corridor, which is becoming a vital link in transcontinental logistics connecting East and West. The Ministry of Transport of Kazakhstan and the Ministry of Transport and Communications of the Republic of Bulgaria signed a Memorandum of … [Read more...]
Foreign Ministers of Central Asian countries met with the Prime Minister of India
On 6 June 2025, Turkmenistan's Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov participated in a meeting of the ministers of foreign affairs of Central Asian countries with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During the meeting, Prime Minister Modi emphasized that relations with the Central Asian countries have always been a key priority for India. Building upon the strong foundation … [Read more...]
The 4th meeting of the “Central Asia – India” Dialogue took place in New Delhi – Joint statement adopted
On 6 June 2025, the 4th meeting of the "Central Asia – India" Dialogue was held in New Delhi, with the participation of the foreign ministers of India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. During the meeting, the foreign ministers discussed promising areas of multilateral cooperation and issues aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of economic … [Read more...]
Central Asia-India Business Council Held in New Delhi
On 5 June 2025, Foreign Minister of Turkmenistan Rashid Meredov participated in the Central Asia-India Business Council held in New Delhi. During the event, participants exchanged views on key partnership issues in transport and logistics connectivity, the digital economy, and investment opportunities for joint projects and programs in these areas between Central Asian … [Read more...]
IUCN Office Opens in Tashkent for Central Asia: A New Hub for Sustainable Development and Nature Conservation
In Tashkent, a ceremony marked the opening of the first International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Office for Central Asia. The office is housed within the Central Asian University for Environmental and Climate Change Studies (Green University). The high-level event was attended by representatives of Central Asian governments, international organizations, the … [Read more...]
The 2nd meeting of the Ministers of Economy and Trade of the Central Asia-China format was held in Astana
On May 30, 2025, the 2nd meeting of the Ministers of Economy and Trade of the Central Asia-China format was held on the sidelines of the Astana 2025 International Forum (AIF 2025), the Ministry of Trade and Integration of the Republic of Kazakhstan reports. The meeting served as a key preparatory step for the upcoming second Central Asia-China Summit, scheduled to be held … [Read more...]
Kazakhstan’s Foreign Trade Chamber discusses plans to strengthen partnership with Turkmenistan
On May 30, 2025, Astana hosted a working meeting between the Foreign Trade Chamber of Kazakhstan and a delegation from Turkmenistan. The event brought together representatives from government agencies and business circles of Turkmenistan. The Kazakh side was represented by Diana Zhakutova, Director of the Department of International Cooperation, and Aidar Kazybayev, Co-Chairman … [Read more...]
Speech by President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov at the First Central Asia–Italy Summit
Dear Madam Prime Minister of the Italian Republic Giorgia Meloni, Dear Heads of State of Central Asia, members of the delegations! Ladies and gentlemen, First of all, I would like to express my deep gratitude to the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, dear Kassym-Jomart Kemelevich Tokayev, for the invitation to this Forum, the hospitality provided and the working … [Read more...]
Joint Declaration by the Heads of State of Central Asia and the President of the Council of Ministers of the Italian Republic following the First “Central Asia – Italy” Summit
May 30, 2025 … [Read more...]
First Central Asia–Italy Summit Held in Astana
On May 30, the first Central Asia–Italy Summit took place in Astana. The Summit, chaired by the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, was attended by the Prime Minister of the Italian Republic Giorgia Meloni, President of the Kyrgyz Republic Sadyr Japarov, President of the Republic of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov, and … [Read more...]
High-Level Dialogue: Berdimuhamedov and Tokayev Discuss Development of Turkmen-Kazakh Relations
On 30 May 2025, on the sidelines of a working visit to Astana, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov met with President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. Highlighting special attention to the development of cooperation with Turkmenistan, Tokayev emphasized: “We look forward to achieving concrete results in our economic interactions. Ties in other areas are also developing quite successfully, … [Read more...]
Deepening Strategic Ties: Landmark Agreements Worth Billions Signed During Italian Prime Minister’s Visit to Kazakhstan
On May 30, 2025, President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Prime Minister of Italy Giorgia Meloni adopted a Joint Statement on enhancing strategic partnership. Following the negotiations, a package of agreements valued over 4 billion euros was also announced. These agreements cover important areas such as critical minerals and raw materials, energy, investment, water … [Read more...]
Turkmen Delegation in Astana Explores Global Best Practices in Trade in Services Statistics
Astana, Kazakhstan, 29 May 2025 — As part of the joint project between the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the State Committee of Turkmenistan on Statistics (Turkmenstat), titled "Support in improving statistics of foreign trade in services, as well as in improving statistical information on the volume of passenger and cargo transportation", the Turkmen … [Read more...]
Journalist accredited from the Turkmen MFA, Derya Soysal particupated in the Astana International Forum
Photo by Derya Soysal ASTANA, May 29 – Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev opened the Second Astana International Forum on Wednesday with a strong call for renewed global cooperation, nuclear non-proliferation, and institutional reform in the face of growing geopolitical instability and technological disruption. Addressing an audience of international leaders, … [Read more...]
GraphicAnalysis: Steadily advancing China-Central Asia cooperation
By Global Times ///cross-post from Global Times, originally published at the link: https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202505/1335028.shtml … [Read more...]
Central Asia to Strengthen Pandemic Preparedness with World Bank Support
The World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors today approved $60 million in financing to support the first phase of the One Health Program in Central Asia. The financing package includes a $30 million concessional credit for the Kyrgyz Republic and a $30 million grant for Tajikistan to help strengthen their capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to priority health risks … [Read more...]
Kazakh Delegation Explores Turkmenistan’s Agro-Industrial Sector
A delegation from the Wholesale Distribution Center of Aktau, Mangystau Region, Kazakhstan, visited Turkmenistan to strengthen business ties in the agro-industrial sector. Organized with the support of the Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the visit aimed to enhance trade cooperation between Kazakh and Turkmen agricultural enterprises. The delegation held … [Read more...]