Central Asia enters most successful era in modern history

July 31, 2026 (MLN): Central Asia is going through its most successful period in modern history, driven by stronger mutual trust and expanding regional cooperation, Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said.

Speaking at the Informal Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia and Azerbaijan in Cholpon-Ata, Kyrgyzstan, Tokayev called for translating recent regional agreements into concrete initiatives to deepen long-term cooperation.

The Kazakh president proposed preparing and adopting a comprehensive Plan of Action with clear priorities for strengthening friendship and good-neighborly relations among the participating countries, according to APP.

He said the plan should focus on expanding trade and economic cooperation while also promoting cultural exchanges and stronger people-to-people ties.

Tokayev welcomed Turkmenistan's participation in the Treaty and stressed that the next step should be its practical implementation.

He also highlighted Azerbaijan's full membership in the Consultative Meetings as a significant development that opens a new chapter for regional cooperation.

According to Tokayev, the expanded format is creating opportunities for deeper political dialogue and greater collaboration in investment, energy and industry, alongside efforts to develop an integrated transport and logistics network.

Regional economic links have strengthened in recent years, with intra-regional trade continuing to expand, business connections growing, joint ventures being established and investment projects moving forward, he noted.

The president also pointed to growing cultural, educational and youth exchanges, saying these developments are bringing the region's peoples closer and enhancing Central Asia's position internationally.

Tokayev arrived in Cholpon-Ata to attend the informal meeting, which brings together the leaders of Central Asian states and Azerbaijan to discuss regional cooperation and future joint initiatives.

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