President Mirziyoyev proposes new strategic framework for regional cooperation at Central Asia summit

He proposed drafting a comprehensive regional program for trade and economic cooperation through 2035, as well as adopting a declaration on a Common Investment Space. The president also called for expanding e-commerce through unified digital platforms and trusted payment systems.

Boosting connectivity and infrastructure

The Uzbek leader stressed the need to jointly develop high-tech infrastructure and transport-logistics networks, including power stations, transmission lines, roads, railways, border crossings, green corridors and fiber-optic networks.

He pointed to the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway and the Trans-Afghan transport corridor as priority connectivity projects, while noting the strong potential of Trans-Caspian routes linking the region with Europe.

To coordinate efforts in infrastructure development, he proposed establishing a Council for Infrastructure Development at the level of deputy prime ministers.

Mirziyoyev praised the summit’s adoption of two key documents – the Concept of Regional Security and Stability and the Catalogue of Threats and Risks – and emphasized the importance of integrating Afghanistan into regional infrastructure, energy and transport initiatives.

He suggested institutionalizing the recently launched “Fergana Peace Forum” as a regular international platform.

Addressing climate and water challenges

The president underscored the urgency of adopting a “green” development concept for Central Asia, given the region’s increasing vulnerability to climate change, environmental degradation and water scarcity.

He proposed declaring 2026–2036 the “Decade of Practical Action for Efficient Water Use in Central Asia” and involving Afghanistan in regional dialogue on the shared use of Amu Darya basin water resources.

To strengthen capacity in water management, Mirziyoyev put forward the establishment of a Regional Competence Centre for Water Management at the Tashkent Institute of Irrigation and Agricultural Mechanisation Engineers.

Enhancing cultural and scientific cooperation

Mirziyoyev said expanding cultural and humanitarian ties is essential for fostering a shared regional identity. He expressed hope that Uzbekistan’s Center for Islamic Civilization would become an important hub for youth education, research and spiritual development.

He proposed holding the newly launched International Congress on Spiritual Heritage and Enlightenment on a regular basis and initiating a UN General Assembly resolution dedicated to the contributions of Central Asia’s prominent scholars to global knowledge.

To support scientific collaboration, he suggested creating a regional Research Fund to finance joint academic projects and promote the adoption of artificial intelligence technologies.

A shared commitment to a stable and prosperous region

Mirziyoyev concluded by emphasizing that all initiatives and documents adopted during the summit reflect a shared strategic vision for building a stable, secure and prosperous Central Asia.

“Our strength lies in unity, and our path to success is through friendship and cooperation,” he said. “Only by acting together, with mutual respect, solidarity and strategic vision, can we achieve our common goals.”

The president also congratulated Turkmenistan’s leader on assuming the chairmanship of the 2026 Consultative Meeting in the new “Central Asia and Azerbaijan” format.

Following Mirziyoyev’s remarks, the heads of state of Central Asia and Azerbaijan delivered their statements. Kaha Imnadze also presented a message from UN Secretary-General António Guterres.