Uzbek President Calls for Regional Cooperation Framework Including Afghanistan

DID Press: Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has called for the establishment of a sustainable framework for regional cooperation, describing Afghanistan as an integral part of a shared regional development space spanning Central Asia and the South Caucasus.

Speaking at the informal summit of Central Asian leaders and Azerbaijan in Cholpon-Ata, Mirziyoyev urged closer coordination on economic integration, transport connectivity and regional cooperation.

Referring to Afghanistan’s role in the region, the Uzbek president said, “We have a historic opportunity to create a unified development space linking Central Asia, the South Caucasus and our close neighbor, Afghanistan.”

Mirziyoyev also emphasized the need to expand regional transport corridors, increase investment, develop digital services, strengthen scientific and technological cooperation, and coordinate responses to climate change. He said deeper regional collaboration would enhance the region’s economic resilience and international standing.

Uzbekistan has increasingly promoted regional connectivity initiatives involving Afghanistan, viewing the country as a strategic link between Central Asia and South Asia through trade, transport and energy projects.