On 19 October 2026, the regular meeting of the Foreign Ministers of Central Asian countries and the Secretary of State of the United States of America in the “C5+1” format was held in Samarkand. About this reports MFA of Turkmenistan.
During the meeting, the participants discussed key issues related to further strengthening multifaceted cooperation between the Central Asian countries and the United States, as well as prospects for advancing regional cooperation in the context of current international developments.
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 shared interests. Particular attention was paid to expanding political dialogue, strengthening good-neighbourly relations, and advancing joint initiatives aimed at ensuring peace, stability and sustainable development in Central Asia.
Trade, economic and investment cooperation featured prominently on the 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 favourable conditions for increased business activity and investment. The need to deepen regional economic integration, develop industrial cooperation, advance the digital economy and introduce modern technologies was also highlighted.
Particular attention was devoted to prospects for cooperation in digitalisation and artificial intelligence, the introduction of innovative technologies, and the development of digital infrastructure. The importance of expanding exchanges of experience and best practices, as well as attracting investment and technological solutions for joint projects in information technology, cybersecurity, the automation of production processes and the training of qualified personnel, was emphasized. The parties noted the importance of harnessing the potential of artificial intelligence to stimulate economic growth, improve the efficiency of public administration and expand regional cooperation.
Further 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 to export finished products to international markets. The parties expressed their interest in exchanging experience and advanced technologies that contribute to enhancing the competitiveness of the economies of the countries in the region.
The meeting also addressed issues related to strengthening regional security, including countering terrorism, organised crime, the illicit trafficking of drugs and weapons, and human trafficking, as well as ensuring the security of state borders. The parties noted the importance of expanding cooperation in cybersecurity and the protection of critical infrastructure. They reaffirmed the significance of continued cooperation in nuclear security and the peaceful use of nuclear energy.
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 Central Asian countries and the United States were identified as important areas of cooperation.
Following the meeting, a Joint Statement by the Foreign Ministers of Central Asian Countries and the United States in the “C5+1” format was adopted. The statement reaffirmed their interest in further strengthening the “C5+1” format as an important platform for political dialogue and practical cooperation aimed at advancing mutually beneficial partnerships, reinforcing regional stability and addressing key socio-economic development challenges.