At the first consultation meeting of the heads of Central Asian states in Astana, the sides discussed issues of expansion of political, trade-economic and humanitarian cooperation between the countries of the region, joint counteraction to terrorism, extremism, illicit traffic in narcotic drugs and weapons, strengthening security and stability in Central Asia.
It was emphasized that Central Asia is not only a geographical and geopolitical, but also a single cultural and civilizational space. Therefore, it is necessary to pay special attention to issue of development of cooperation between the territories, which along with ensuring sustainable development in Central Asia will allow to fully use the industrial, investment and intellectual potential of the regions of Central Asian countries.
The heads of states noted the need for further strengthening cooperation within the framework of the CIS, the SCO, the OIC and other authoritative international structures. At the meeting, a wide range of issues related to cooperation of the countries of the region in political, trade-economic, transport, cultural, humanitarian and other spheres were discussed.
President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev noted that relations based on mutual understanding of Central Asian countries play a decisive role in ensuring peace, security and sustainable development, as well as in expanding regional and international cooperation. Central Asia, with its huge energy potential, natural resources, transport and communication capabilities, has an important geopolitical significance, and the process taking place affect the stability of the whole Eurasia.
For establishment of a regular dialogue in this direction, joint search for a solution to regional problems, conducting a consultation meeting of the heads of Central Asian states should become traditional.
