BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 20. The United States
and Central Asian countries see expanded opportunities for mineral
extraction and processing, according to a joint statement released
by the governments of the United States, Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz
Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan on the occasion
of the C5+1 Ministerial in Samarkand, the U.S. Department of State
said.
“We recognize that strengthening U.S.-Central Asian energy
cooperation will galvanize efforts to develop integrated,
high-value supply chains that yield sustained economic growth and
energy resilience. Each of our countries has a unique collection of
untapped natural resources; we will combine our strengths to be a
collective, powerful driver of regional energy sector development.
Data is gold; as such, we intend to exchange expertise and best
practices on managing geological data. We envision expanded
opportunities for mineral extraction and processing that maximize
benefits for our respective countries. We also envision Central
Asia realizing its export potential by developing innovative ways
to increase value-added products within the region and creating
pathways to introduce these products to the international market,”
the statement said.
The statement noted that the first C5+1 Ministerial took place
more than ten years ago, marking an important step in the
development of a diplomatic platform based on respect for the
sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of all
nations.
This year, Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan,
Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan are celebrating 35 years of
independence, while the United States is commemorating 250 years of
independence. The statement expressed anticipation of many more
generations of enduring partnership.
The C5+1 governments affirmed the importance of friendship among
sovereign nations, honoring their countries’ historical
contributions, seizing present-day opportunities, and striving for
a more peaceful and prosperous future for their citizens. They also
expressed their commitment to peaceful dispute resolution and
stronger dialogue and cooperation among the countries.
“It is here, at the crossroads of connectivity, where we reflect
on the historic connections that bind the United States and Central
Asia and find innovative ways to strengthen them. Where distance
once limited our citizens’ dreams to experience each other’s
remarkable destinations, we are creating new and modern
transportation links. Along the Trans-Caspian Trade Route, we are
strengthening mutually beneficial partnerships and investing in
infrastructure to smooth the way. We are forging digital
connections and community, including through English language
training and education, for the purpose of bridging geographical
divides and bringing the people of C5+1 countries ever closer
together,” the statement said.
