Central Asia: Cooperation and a New Era of Development

Central Asia is currently entering a new stage of historical development. This was reported by Zamin.uz.

The positive changes observed in the region and the close cooperation between states have reached a new level in recent years. As President Shavkat Mirziyoyev emphasized in his article titled "Central Asia on the Threshold of a New Era," the countries of the region, after a long pause, are striving in one direction — common development and strong stability.

According to the President, this process is not accidental but the result of consistent political will and practical activities of the heads of state. Mutual trust and good neighborly relations between the countries in the region have been strengthened, and cooperation has become a strategic necessity.

Shavkat Mirziyoyev acknowledged that the Consultative Meetings of the Central Asian heads of state have formed a new political-economic environment, and he stressed that the upcoming summit in Tashkent could further advance this process. In recent years, border issues have been resolved, turning them into a symbol of unity rather than competition.

For example, the Fergana Peace Forum and joint projects in water and energy, particularly agreements on the construction of the Qambarata HPP-1, are practical results of regional cooperation. Additionally, economic indicators have significantly improved.

Over the past eight years, the region's gross domestic product has increased two and a half times, and trade turnover between countries has doubled. The President also touched upon the region's position on the international stage, emphasizing the importance of summits in the "Central Asia Plus" format.

Dialogue with countries such as the European Union, China, Russia, and the USA is strengthening the region as a responsible international actor. Moreover, the issue of Afghanistan holds an important place.

According to the President, Afghanistan's stability is directly linked to Central Asia's security. Therefore, involving this country in regional and international processes, implementing the Trans-Afghan railway project, and developing cooperation in humanitarian fields are urgent tasks.

The President noted that in the near future, the population of Central Asia is expected to reach 100 million, with the majority being young people. Developing the potential of youth, ecology, water and food security, the "green economy," and rapid development of digital technologies are among the region's main goals.

Summarizing his article, Shavkat Mirziyoyev stated that cooperation among Central Asian countries is a strategic choice. In conditions of global uncertainty, good neighborliness and mutual support have become the region's most valuable asset.

The new concept of Central Asia is a historic process that opens the way to peace, stability, and common prosperity.