Central Asian countries launch regional contact group on Afghanistan 

The contact group is envisioned as an independent regional platform for regular and focused dialogue on issues of common interest to Central Asian countries.

During the meeting, participants underlined the importance of developing an independent approach to Afghanistan, taking into account the geostrategic position of Central Asia and Afghanistan, their historically interconnected cultural and economic space, and the shared interest in ensuring stability, security, and sustainable development across Eurasia.

The parties confirmed their intention to work out common, balanced, and realistic approaches regarding the situation in Afghanistan. They emphasized the need to restore and expand trade and economic ties, transport and logistics networks, and cultural and humanitarian cooperation between Central Asia and Afghanistan.

Representatives of Central Asian states also exchanged views on cooperation with Afghanistan’s current de facto authorities, taking into account national interests and priorities of the region’s countries. They expressed interest in expanding collaboration in regional security, including combating transnational crime, extremism, terrorism, and drug trafficking.

The participants noted Afghanistan’s role in regional efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

The meeting highlighted the importance of ensuring the contact group operates as a stable platform for consultations, exchanges of views, and coordination of actions on Afghan-related issues. The sides agreed on the need to hold regular meetings in this format, including within the framework of the Consultative Meetings of the Heads of State of Central Asia.

They emphasized that the future work of the contact group should strengthen the independent and responsible role of Central Asian states in shaping the regional agenda on Afghanistan and contribute to the sustainable development of the entire macro-region.