On October 19, 2026, a regular meeting of the Foreign Ministers of the Central Asian countries and the Secretary of State of the United States of America in the "C5+1" format was held in Samarkand.
During the meeting, participants discussed pressing issues related to the further strengthening of multi-faceted cooperation between the Central Asian countries and the USA, as well as prospects for developing regional interaction amid contemporary international realities.
The parties reaffirmed their commitment to developing a long-term partnership based on the principles of respect for the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of states, mutual trust, and consideration of common interests. Special attention was paid to expanding political dialogue, strengthening good-neighborly relations, and promoting joint initiatives aimed at ensuring peace, stability, and sustainable development in Central Asia.
Trade, economic, and investment cooperation held a significant place on the meeting's agenda. The parties emphasized the importance of further developing transport and logistics connectivity—including the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route—expanding mutual trade, and creating favorable conditions for boosting business activity and attracting investment. The necessity of deepening regional economic integration, developing industrial cooperation, advancing the digital economy, and introducing modern technologies was noted.
A special place during the meeting was dedicated to prospects for cooperation in digitalization and artificial intelligence, the implementation of innovative technologies, and the development of digital infrastructure. The importance of expanding the exchange of experience and best practices, as well as attracting investment and technological solutions for implementing joint projects in information technology, cybersecurity, production process automation, and training highly qualified personnel, was underscored. The parties noted the importance of utilizing the potential of artificial intelligence to stimulate economic growth, enhance public administration efficiency, and expand regional cooperation.
Particular attention was given to prospects for cooperation in the energy sector, the extraction and processing of natural resources, the development of value chains, and the expansion of opportunities for exporting finished products to international markets. The interest in exchanging experiences and advanced technologies that contribute to enhancing the competitiveness of the region's economies was emphasized.
The meeting also addressed issues of strengthening regional security, including countering terrorism, organized crime, illicit drug and arms trafficking, human trafficking, and ensuring state border security. The parties noted the importance of expanding cooperation in cybersecurity and the protection of critical infrastructure. The significance of further cooperation in the field of nuclear safety and the peaceful use of nuclear energy was reaffirmed.
The preservation and promotion of historical and cultural heritage, the expansion of educational and cultural exchanges, the development of tourism ties, and the strengthening of people-to-people contacts between the countries of Central Asia and the United States of America were designated as important areas of interaction.
Following the meeting, a Joint Statement of the Foreign Ministers of the Central Asian countries and the USA in the "C5+1" format was adopted. In the statement, the parties confirmed their interest in further strengthening the "C5+1" format as an important platform for political dialogue and practical interaction aimed at developing mutually beneficial cooperation, strengthening regional stability, and addressing pressing socio-economic development tasks.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan
