At a meeting held on November 5 in Washington, representatives from five Central Asian countries - Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan - discussed important issues of cooperation. This event was timed to coincide with the tenth anniversary of the "C5+1" format, which unites the USA and these states, and preceded the summit of presidents scheduled for November 6. U.S. Special Envoy Sergio Gor stated that the Trump administration intends to focus on Central Asia.
According to Rubio, this time can be considered the beginning of a new era of engagement with Central Asia. "U.S. foreign policy should be based on national interests, and when the interests of two countries align, it creates ideal conditions for partnership," he added.
Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau also emphasized that President Trump understands the importance of regions that have traditionally been overlooked in foreign policy. "We aim to enhance our contacts with the five countries in the region. After recent visits to Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan, we have seen many opportunities for cooperation," he noted.
Special Representative for Central Asia, Sergio Gor, remarked that the U.S. seeks to create "a genuine partnership based on common interests." He assured that the presence of representatives from the region at this event symbolizes the deepening of relations and shared goals for ensuring security and prosperity in Central Asia.
"The President has made it clear that previous administrations did not pay adequate attention to this region. Now you have the opportunity to communicate directly with the White House, and you will receive the attention you deserve," Gor added, praising the progress made in the fields of innovation and business.
Gor also mentioned that the "C5+1" platform remains an important tool for collaboration in areas such as energy and economic development. "Tomorrow, a business conference will take place at the Kennedy Center, where we will present new agreements that will create jobs and export opportunities for American companies," he reported.
Rubio also noted that the U.S. will actively develop economic ties with Central Asia and support its efforts to diversify its economy. "We are looking for opportunities for American business and innovation to enter new markets, which will strengthen our connections. It is important for countries to utilize their human and natural resources to create new industries and opportunities for their citizens," he concluded.
The Secretary of State confirmed his intention to visit all five countries in the region next year. The "C5+1" format was established in 2015 for political and economic cooperation between the U.S. and Central Asia.
The first summit in this format took place in New York in September 2023.
Source: gazeta.uz
