On April 11, 2026, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan conducted a significant working visit to the city of Bukhara, Uzbekistan, for a high-level meeting with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. This visit, characterized by its informal and constructive atmosphere, served to reinforce the "unprecedentedly high level" of the strategic partnership and alliance between the two … [Read more...]
Preparing for a Historic Summit: Seoul Hosts “Central Asia – Republic of Korea” Vice-Ministerial Meeting
On 10 April 2026, Seoul hosted the first Senior Officials' Meeting (SOM) of Vice Foreign Ministers from Central Asian countries and the Republic of Korea, chaired by Korean Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Chung Eui-hae. The agenda focused on preparations for the first "Republic of Korea – Central Asia Summit," scheduled to take place in September 2026. Heads of Central … [Read more...]
60,000 Uzbekistan Citizens made purchases in Border Trade Zone with Turkmenistan in Q1 2026
Trade volumes through the "Shavat-Dashoguz" Turkmen-Uzbek Border Trade Center continue to see consistent growth. According to the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan, approximately 60,000 citizens of Uzbekistan made purchases at the center in January-March of this year. This resulted in the export of more than 1,700 tons of goods from Turkmenistan. During the same … [Read more...]
The Legacy of Amir Temur at the Center of Islamic Civilization: The Intellectual Foundation of the Third Renaissance
April 9 - the 690th anniversary of the birth of Amir Temur Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan Human history shows that great civilizations are built upon a combination of intellectual achievements, spiritual values, and cultural heritage. Central Asia has long been a center of science, art, and philosophy, forming civilizational foundations that have … [Read more...]
International Scientific and Practical Conference dedicated to the 690th Anniversary of the birth of Sahibkiran Amir Temur
“The image of Sahibkiran Amir Temur, having become a symbol of our national statehood, continues to provide immense spiritual strength to our people in realizing our identity and restoring our ancient traditions and values”, Shavkat Mirziyoyev An International Scientific and Practical Conference titled “The role and significance of the civilization of Amir Temur and the … [Read more...]
Middle Corridor’s implementation in the regional connectivity architecture
Fabio Indeo Despite the international tensions triggered by the escalating conflict in the Middle East, connectivity projects remain a key priority for the EU and the Central Asian republics to promote the development of resilient transit and energy corridors linking eastern and western markets. Among these projects, the Middle Corridor (or the Trans-Caspian … [Read more...]
Kabul Hosts Inaugural Afghanistan–Central Asia Consultative Dialogue: Aiming for $10 Billion in Trade
The first meeting of the Afghanistan–Central Asia Consultative Dialogue was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Afghanistan in Kabul on 5 April 2026. Chaired by Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, the session gathered senior representatives from Central Asian nations to strengthen political dialogue and diplomatic coordination, explore new opportunities for cooperation, … [Read more...]
The Second Asian Women’s Forum to be held in Bukhara on 13–15 May 2026
A meeting of the Organizing Committee for the Second Asian Women’s Forum was held at the Senate of the Oliy Majlis. The meeting was chaired by the Chairperson of the Senate, Tanzila Narbaeva. The meeting was attended by members of the Organizing Committee, senators, heads of relevant ministries and agencies, as well as representatives of non-governmental non-profit … [Read more...]
Uzbekistan Strengthens Its Position as a Safe and Open Tourism Destination
By the end of 2025, Uzbekistan’s tourism industry demonstrated steady and dynamic growth. The country welcomed nearly 12 million foreign tourists, a 16% increase compared to the previous year. Exports of tourism services exceeded $4.8 billion, confirming growing international interest and cementing Uzbekistan’s position as one of the region’s most promising … [Read more...]
OTS Meeting in Baku: Turkmenistan Outlines Key Priorities for Partnership Across the Turkic World
On 2 April 2026, Baku hosted the second meeting of heads of government and vice presidents of the member states of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS). The meeting brought together high-level representatives, including: According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, participants discussed pressing issues regarding the expansion of multilateral … [Read more...]
“The Turkic World is Our Family”: President of Azerbaijan Meets with OTS Heads of Government in Baku
On 2 April 2026, President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev held a meeting with the heads of government and delegations of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS). The high-level gathering included Vice President of the Republic of Türkiye Cevdet Yılmaz, Prime Minister of Uzbekistan Abdulla Aripov, Prime Minister of Kazakhstan Olzhas Bektenov, Chairman of the Cabinet of … [Read more...]
Peace Initiatives and Neutrality: Turkmenistan Presents Strategy at the Central Asia – EU Interparliamentary Forum in Samarkand
On 30-31 March 2026, the first Central Asia – European Union Interparliamentary Cooperation Forum took place in Samarkand. The event served as a dialogue platform for the systematic development of parliamentary diplomacy and the expansion of practical cooperation between the region and Europe. At the opening ceremony, Sodik Safoev, First Deputy Chairman of the Senate … [Read more...]
Astana Prepares to Host April Summit of IFAS Founding Heads of State
On 30 March, a meeting of the Board of the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea (IFAS) was held in Astana, chaired by the Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kanat Bozumbayev. The event served as a key milestone in the preparations for the meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Fund's founding members, scheduled for 22 April 2026 in the Kazakh … [Read more...]
Dushanbe and Tashkent Target $2 Billion Trade Turnover and Launch 12 Joint Projects: Outcomes of the Tajikistan-Uzbekistan Summit
26–27 March 2026 President of the Republic of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon paid a state visit to Uzbekistan. The events took place in Tashkent and Bukhara. The visit included high-level negotiations, the inaugural meeting of the Supreme Inter-State Council, the launch of joint projects, a business forum, a joint exhibition, and cultural events. Following the high-level talks, a … [Read more...]
CERR Assesses Economic Activity Across Uzbekistan’s Regions Over Five Years Using Satellite Data
Abdulaziz Gaybullayev, CERR An analysis of nighttime satellite illumination data indicates a strengthening of economic activity across regions and an expansion in the number of territories exhibiting urban-type development. The Center for Economic Research and Reforms (CERR) applied satellite-based nighttime lights (NTL) data to assess economic activity at the level … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan Discusses Prospects for Agricultural Cooperation
On 23 March 2026, a meeting was held in Tashkent between the Minister of Agriculture of Uzbekistan, Ibrokhim Abdurakhmonov, and the Deputy Minister of Agriculture of Turkmenistan, Berkeli Berkeliyev. During the dialogue, which took place on the sidelines of the international forum "Italy – Central Asia (C5) + Azerbaijan," the parties discussed the further development … [Read more...]
Tashkent hosts Agro-Forum in Central Asia – Italy – Azerbaijan Format
An international business forum titled "Innovations, Regenerative Agriculture, Export, and Digitalization for Sustainable Agro-Ecosystems" is taking place in Tashkent on 23–24 March 2026, featuring participation from Italy, Central Asian countries, and Azerbaijan. On the first day of the forum, high-level delegates from Italy, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, … [Read more...]
Amir Temur and Diplomacy
Akmal Saidov, academician Amir Temur occupies a place in world history not only as a great commander and statesman who built a powerful and prosperous state. The great ruler turned his capital, Samarkand, into one of the cultural, architectural, scientific and spiritual centers of the world. Therefore, the study of Amir Temur's exemplary life and statecraft, the history … [Read more...]
National Leader of Turkmenistan and President of Uzbekistan Hold Telephone Talks
On 20 March 2026, at the initiative of the Turkmen side, a telephone conversation took place between the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov and President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev. The leaders congratulated each other and the peoples of both countries on the holidays of Oraza Bayramy (Eid … [Read more...]
Seoul starts preparations for the inaugural summit with Central Asia
On 16 March 2026, a launching ceremony for the establishment of a Preparatory Office was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea. The Office will coordinate preparations for the first “Central Asia - Republic of Korea” Summit, scheduled to take place in Seoul on 16-17 September 2026. The event brought together heads and staff of diplomatic … [Read more...]
Nearly 30 new projects to protect cultural heritage launched by the European Union and ALIPH in Central Asia
The European Union and ALIPH have launched 29 cultural heritage projects across Central Asia to safeguard endangered tangible and intangible heritage from the impact of climate change, following a highly successful Call for Projects that elicited 233 applications. © ALIPH, 2026 The European Union and ALIPH have launched 29 cultural heritage projects across … [Read more...]
Closing Ceremony Marks Successful Completion of the Training for Young Diplomats of Central Asia
Ashgabat, Turkmenistan — 13 March 2026:The United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office in Turkmenistan, together with the Government of Turkmenistan and with support from the Governments of Italy and the United Kingdom, concluded today the SecondTraining for Young Diplomats of Central Asia — a five-day capacity building programme aimed at strengthening the skills, knowledge, … [Read more...]
Center for Islamic Civilization: A Megaproject Recognized by the International Community
Firdavs Abdukhalikov, Director of the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan Exactly one year ago, on January 29, 2025, His Excellency the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, visited the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan. During his visit, he provided a series of recommendations and directives regarding the incorporation of … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan: Trade Zone Brings Nations Closer
Thanks to the political will and friendly relations between the leaders of Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan, historical ties between our peoples are being restored, and cooperation is strengthening in all spheres. A prime example of this rapprochement is the "Shavat-Dashoguz" joint border trade zone. Its opening took place on 17 November 2025. The facility was launched by the … [Read more...]
Tashkent to Host Italy–Central Asia–Azerbaijan Agribusiness Forum
At the initiative of the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Uzbekistan in cooperation withMinistry of Agriculture, Food Sovereignty and Forestry of the Italian Republic, an international Agribusiness Forum titled “Innovation, Regenerative Agriculture, and Digitalization for Sustainable Agro-ecosystems” will be held in Tashkent on 23–24 March 2026. The forum serves as … [Read more...]
Belarus Expands Economic Reach into Afghanistan via “Uzbek Gateway”
Elvira Kadyrova In recent years, the geoeconomic map of Eurasia has been shifting under the pressure of international sanctions and the emergence of new strategic partnerships. Central Asia is increasingly positioned as a primary beneficiary of this shift, leveraging its geographic location and expanding transport infrastructure to provide logistical solutions for landlocked … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Facilitates Evacuation of Foreign Nationals from Iran
Amid the current regional situation, Turkmenistan has opened its borders to ensure the safe transit of foreign citizens leaving Iranian territory. Diplomatic missions from Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, and South Korea, with the active cooperation of Turkmen authorities, have organized a large-scale operation to repatriate their citizens. Reopening of Border … [Read more...]
Central Asian Nations Respond to Middle East Escalation; Turkmenistan Opens Sarakhs Border Crossing for Evacuations of Foreign Citizens
Ashgabat, Tashkent, Astana, Bishkek, Dushanbe, 2 March 2026 — The states of Central Asia have issued official statements regarding the sharp escalation of tensions in the Middle East. The situation, triggered by U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran and subsequent Iranian retaliatory attacks on American military bases in Arab nations, has drawn a unified regional … [Read more...]
London and Central Asia: Launch of the CA5+UK Format Ushers in a New Era of Strategic Partnership
On 26 February 2026, London hosted the meeting of the Foreign Ministers of Central Asian countries and the United Kingdom in the CA5+UK format. The meeting was attended by: This marks the first time since the Central Asian nations gained independence in 1991 that the Foreign Ministers of the region and the United Kingdom have convened in such a format. During the … [Read more...]
The Development Model of UAE and its Replicable Components for Central Asia
Tariq Saeedi The United Arab Emirates (UAE) was formally established on December 2, 1971, as a federation of seven emirates—Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah, and Ras Al Khaimah (which joined in 1972)—following the end of British protection. In its early years, the UAE was a resource-scarce desert nation reliant almost entirely on hydrocarbon … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan participates in the meeting of the Foreign Ministers of Germany – Central Asia
On 11 February 2026, in Berlin, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Akhmet Gurbanov took part in a meeting between the Federal Minister of Foreign Affairs of Germany and the heads of foreign ministries of Central Asian countries. The main topics of the talks were the development of cooperation in the energy sector, issues of regional partnership and others, … [Read more...]
Berlin Hosts Historic Central Asia-Germany Ministerial Meeting, Elevates Strategic Partnership
nCa Report Germany solidified its commitment to Central Asia on Wednesday, hosting the first-ever ministerial-level meeting in the C5+1 (Z5+1) format with all five Central Asian nations, marking a significant step in the deepening "Strategic Regional Partnership" between the regions. The high-level diplomatic gathering brought together Foreign Minister Johann … [Read more...]
Islamabad Summit Talks: Uzbekistan and Pakistan ink 30 New Agreements, a Defense Sector “Roadmap,” and Agree on $2 Billion Trade Turnover
On 5 February 2026, summit talks took place in Islamabad between President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Prime Minister of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif. The first day of the Uzbek leader’s two-day visit (5–6 February) was marked by negotiations in a narrow format, the inaugural session of the Supreme-Level Strategic Cooperation Council, and the signing of a substantial … [Read more...]
Strategic Partnership between Uzbekistan and Pakistan – A Key Factor in Strengthening Central and South Asia Connectivity
On February 5–6, the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev will pay a state visit to Pakistan. This visit is seen as a logical continuation of the intensified Uzbek-Pakistani dialogue in recent years and, at the same time, as an important step in implementing Uzbekistan’s foreign policy strategy, focused on expanding cooperation with South Asian countries. The visit … [Read more...]
Central Asia’s Strategic Pivot: Navigating Between Giants While Building From Within
Tariq Saeedi The five republics of Central Asia—Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Turkmenistan—are experiencing a quiet but significant transformation. Three decades after independence, these countries are no longer merely buffer states caught between larger powers. They're actively crafting foreign policies that maximize their autonomy while pursuing … [Read more...]
Embraer re-enters Central Asia market – Uzbekistan acquires C-390 military transport planes
At the Singapore Airshow on February 3, 2026, Embraer disclosed that the Republic of Uzbekistan was the mystery buyer behind a prior undisclosed order for the C-390 Millennium transport aircraft. The Uzbek Air Force plans to deploy the C-390 mainly for logistics and humanitarian efforts, which will substantially boost its operational strength. This deal positions Uzbekistan … [Read more...]
Top 5 Mega-Projects in Central Asia with Asian Capital – EDB Data
Central Asia receives nearly 57% of all Asian investments, totaling US $68 billion. The key recipients are Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. This was stated in the Eurasian Development Bank (EDB) report titled "The Eurasian Region and Partner Countries in Asia: Analysis of Investment Flows Based on EDB Mutual Investment Monitoring." According to the report, the … [Read more...]
The Economic Horizon for Central Asia: Experts Opine on Mid- to Long-Term Prospects
Tariq Saeedi Central Asia—comprising Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan—stands at a crossroads of opportunity and challenge, according to recent analyses from independent think tanks, academic experts, and regional specialists. Over the past six months, from August 2025 onward, discussions have centered on the region's potential to leverage … [Read more...]
Kazakhstan Assumes Chairmanship of the Central Asian Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone
Kazakhstan has assumed the chairmanship for 2026 within the framework of the Treaty on a Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone in Central Asia (CANWFZ), according to the country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The chairmanship functions were officially handed over to Kazakhstan during a consultative meeting of the CANWFZ member states. In addition, the parties discussed joint efforts … [Read more...]
Fifth Meeting of the Turkmen-Uzbek Commission on Water Management Issues Held in Khiva
On 30 January 2026, the ancient city of Khiva, Uzbekistan, hosted the Fifth Meeting of the Joint Turkmen-Uzbek Intergovernmental Commission on Water Management Issues, according to the Foreign Ministry of Turkmenistan. The Turkmen delegation was led by Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan T. Atakhalyev, who oversees agricultural affairs, while the … [Read more...]
EBRD invests almost US$ 2 billion in Central Asia and Mongolia in 2025
Anton Usov In 2025 the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) invested almost US$2 billion (€1.72 billion) through 120 projects in Central Asia and Mongolia. This represents one of the Bank’s strongest operational results in the region for more than a decade. Uzbekistan was the leading recipient of EBRD funding in 2025 for the sixth year running (over … [Read more...]
Tashkent and Ankara Strengthen Strategic Partnership on the Eve of the 30th Anniversary of the Friendship Treaty – Outcomes of the Uzbekistan President’s Visit to Türkiye
On 29 January 2026, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev arrived in Ankara on an official visit at the invitation of President of Türkiye Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. The main event of the one-day visit was the fourth meeting of the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council, co-chaired by the two presidents, followed by an expanded meeting of the delegations. The sides … [Read more...]
Uzbekistan-Türkiye: Development of Cooperation in Environmental Protection
Makhmud Khaydarov, Chief specialist Department of international cooperation and rankings of the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change Uzbekistan and Türkiye are consistently developing bilateral and multilateral cooperation in the fields of ecology and environmental protection, paying special attention to the exchange of experience, the … [Read more...]
World Bank Launches REMIT: $1 Billion for a Central Asia’s first-ever regional electricity market
The World Bank has approved the Regional Electricity Market Interconnectivity and Trade (REMIT) Program for Central Asia. The program aims to establish the region's first regional electricity market, enhancing energy security and affordability, expanding transmission capacity, and laying the foundation for large-scale integration of renewable energy sources into the power … [Read more...]
Russia and Central Asian Countries to Establish a Joint Energy Working Group
Russia and five Central Asian states—Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan—have agreed to establish a specialized working group on energy at the level of deputy ministers. This was announced following consultations held in the “Central Asia–Russia” format at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation. The new working group will … [Read more...]
“Central Asia – Russia” Format Consultations Held in Moscow
On 22 January 2026, high-level consultations in the "Central Asia – Russia" format were held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation. The meeting focused on the implementation of the Joint Action Plan for Central Asia and Russia for 2025–2027. The head of the Turkmen delegation, Ambassador of Turkmenistan E. Aydogdyev, noted in his remarks the importance … [Read more...]
The Turkish Embassy in Turkmenistan Celebrates World Turkic Language Family Day: From the Samarkand Declaration to Real rapprochement
Elvira Kadyrova On 21 January 2026, an event dedicated to the recently established World Turkic Language Family Day took place at the Cultural Center of the Embassy of Türkiye in Turkmenistan, Ashgabat. The event became one of the first major commemorations in the Turkic world following the historic decision of UNESCO’s General Conference in Samarkand in November 2025, … [Read more...]
Historic Milestone: China-Central Asia Trade Turnover Surpasses $100 Billion for the First Time
In 2025, economic and trade cooperation between China and Central Asian nations reached a qualitatively new level, hitting a historic milestone. According to official data from the Ministry of Commerce of the PRC, reported by Xinhua News Agency, the total trade turnover between China and the region amounted to $106.3 billion, a 12% increase over the previous year. This … [Read more...]
Uzbekistan announces the leasing of facilities in the free trade zone on the border with Turkmenistan
On the border territory of Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan, the process of leasing commercial facilities in the Shavat–Dashoguz Free Trade Zone (FTZ) has officially been launched. This was reported by the Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade of Uzbekistan. This is a key stage in the implementation of the project, aimed at stimulating bilateral trade, creating new business … [Read more...]
President of Uzbekistan Calls for Results-Driven Diplomacy in Era of Global Change
President Shavkat Mirziyoyev recently held an expanded meeting on January 15 to discuss the future direction of Uzbekistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and its diplomatic missions abroad. The meeting came at a time of significant geopolitical shifts globally, prompting the need for a critical reassessment of the country's foreign policy approach. The President reflected … [Read more...]