Uzbek President highlights transformation of Central Asia in exclusive interview

In recent years, Central Asia has undergone profound changes, transforming into a space for constructive dialogue, trust, and comprehensive cooperation. This was stated by Uzbekistan’s President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in an exclusive interview with “Euronews” ahead of the first “Central Asia – European Union” summit in Samarkand.

“Central Asia is a priority direction of Uzbekistan’s foreign policy. This is due to several factors. Firstly, if we look at the global political map today, most armed conflicts, disputes, and violence occur between neighboring states. This is true for regions like the Middle East, post-Soviet space, South Asia, Africa, and others.

Unfortunately, Central Asia has not been an exception. At various times, armed clashes have occurred here, exacerbated by border issues, water-energy problems, transport and communication complexities, and security threats. Such situations could not persist indefinitely. Conflicts intensified, disagreements deepened, and the emerging complex situation began to pose serious threats to the region’s security,” Mirziyoyev said.

The President emphasized that recognizing this reality led to a strategic decision to gradually build constructive, mutually beneficial relations based on good neighborliness in Central Asia. He noted that this approach is rooted in mutual trust and respect, as well as the acknowledgment of shared interests.

“In recent years, Central Asia has fundamentally changed, acquiring a new image—a space for constructive dialogue, trust, and comprehensive cooperation. This transformation has been achieved thanks to the shared political will of our countries’ leaders. Today, we can confidently say that this process is irreversible.

When Uzbekistan proposed holding Consultative Meetings at the 72nd session of the UN General Assembly in 2017, we were guided by a simple yet important idea: if we do not initiate mutual trust and open dialogue ourselves, no external partners can ensure peace, stability, and progress in our region. This process has proven effective. Today, we are resolving the most complex issues through negotiations, coordinating joint initiatives, and taking bold steps forward,” the President stated.

Mirziyoyev highlighted that this year, the seventh Consultative Meeting of Central Asian leaders will be held in Tashkent. These meetings not only discuss agendas but also adopt concrete decisions that transform the region.

“A recent bright example is the resolution of the border delimitation issue between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. This success was achieved through years of efforts by both sides,” said the Uzbek President.

He also mentioned initiatives to promote trade by establishing border trade zones, launching joint investment funds, and implementing major infrastructure and industrial projects.

“Central Asia is becoming a key link in global transport chains. We are actively developing the Trans-Caspian and Trans-Afghan transport corridors, which expand our countries’ access to global markets,” Mirziyoyev added.

The President noted that Central Asia is no longer on the sidelines of history but is becoming a rapidly developing region shaping its strategic agenda. He emphasized that political will, high levels of mutual trust, and joint economic initiatives have created new opportunities for sustainable development in the region.

“During Uzbekistan’s chairmanship of the Central Asia Five, we will focus on three priority areas: strengthening regional security, deepening economic integration, and ensuring environmental sustainability.

We have a historic opportunity to make our region not only stable but also prosperous. I am confident that we can realize this potential together,” said the Uzbek leader.