Central Asian leaders deepen regional integration as Azerbaijan joins consultative format Article, video by Euronews

The Seventh Consultative Meeting of the heads of state of Central Asia, held in Tashkent, ended with a landmark result: the leaders unanimously approved Azerbaijan's accession to their consultative format as a full member, Euronews writes.

Leaders of Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan described the decision as a historic expansion of regional cooperation, noting that it officially brings the South Caucasus into the Central Asian cooperation framework, creating a broader space of connectivity stretching from the Caspian to world markets.

Azerbaijan's participation will give the format new momentum, expanding trade, investment, cultural ties and coordinated development across two strategically important regions, according to officials.

Seven proposals from Uzbekistan's president

The Tashkent meeting focused on strengthening institutional foundations of regional cooperation, with proposals to transform the current consultative system into a long-term strategic platform called the "Community of Central Asia," complete with a rotating Secretariat, a Council of Elders and enhanced roles for national coordinators.

Uzbekistan's President Shavkat Mirziyoyev delivered seven key proposals at the meeting:

Regional integration: Mirziyoyev said regional integration had led to borders reopening, disputes being resolved and regional trade reaching $10.7 billion (€9.20 billion) with 17 per cent growth in investment.

Strengthening institutions: establishing a Central Asian Community with a Secretariat and Council of Elders.

Economy and investment: developing a regional trade programme until 2035, creating a common investment space and developing cooperation in the field of e-commerce.

Transport network: joint work on major corridors, including the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway and the Trans-Afghan route.

Security and Afghanistan: adoption of a regional security concept and support for Afghanistan's involvement in energy and transport projects.

Climate and water resources: proposal to declare a Decade for Rational Water Use from 2026 to 2036 and a regional water excellence centre.

Humanitarian exchange: holding annual congresses on spiritual heritage and launching new scientific initiatives.

Concluding his speech, President Mirziyoyev emphasised that unity is the foundation of regional success. He congratulated Turkmenistan on taking over the chairmanship of the new Central Asia-Azerbaijan format.

Strategic partnership

Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev said relations between the country and Central Asia have evolved into a strategic partnership, strengthened by active political dialogue and growing economic, cultural and humanitarian cooperation.

Aliyev noted Azerbaijan's expanding role in regional connectivity, citing major infrastructure projects, rapid growth of transit through the Middle Corridor and new initiatives such as the Digital Silk Road and Caspian energy links.

He praised Central Asian countries for their support in rebuilding Azerbaijan's liberated territories and said shared geopolitical and geo-economic interests now unite the region.

Aliyev welcomed Azerbaijan's accession as a full member of the Central Asian format, calling it a historic step that will further strengthen cooperation and solidarity.

Strengthening of regional cooperation

Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev called for stronger regional coordination on water security, transport connectivity and economic integration.

He proposed a Central Asian Framework Convention on Water Use, a unified cargo-tracking system and a comprehensive transport strategy to unlock the region's transit potential.

Tokayev also emphasised cooperation in rare earth metals, artificial intelligence and tourism, while welcoming Azerbaijan's accession to the format.

Signing of key accords

The summit concluded with leaders signing documents including a joint statement outlining shared priorities, endorsement of Azerbaijan's accession, support for Kyrgyzstan's candidacy for the UN Security Council for 2027-2028, and approval of the Concept of Regional Security, Stability and Sustainable Development in Central Asia.

They also approved a Catalogue of Security Risks and preventive measures for 2026-2028.

The visit to Centre for Islamic Civilisation

On the afternoon of November 17, the presidents visited the Centre for Islamic Civilisation in Tashkent, which houses unique artefacts and research facilities dedicated to preserving and popularising the heritage of Islamic civilisation.

They visited the Holy Quran Hall, where the Mushaf Usman, one of the greatest spiritual relics of the Islamic world, is kept, as well as sections on pre-Islamic civilisations and Islamic renaissance periods.