The first meeting of special representatives of Central Asian countries on Afghanistan was held in Tashkent. Initiated by Uzbekistan, the event brought together delegations from Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan, marking a significant step toward establishing an independent regional platform to address the Afghan agenda. Details of the meeting were shared by the Uzbek news portal UzDaily.uz.
The meeting took place within the framework of implementing outcomes from the Sixth Consultative Meeting of Central Asian Heads of State, held in Astana on August 9, 2024, including the adoption of a Joint Statement and the Regional Cooperation Roadmap for 2025–2027. Participants reaffirmed the need to establish a Central Asian Contact Group on Afghanistan as an independent and sustainable platform for regular dialogue on issues of mutual interest.
The parties emphasized the strategic importance of a region-led approach to the Afghan issue, taking into account the geopolitical positioning of Central Asia and Afghanistan, their deep historical, cultural, and economic ties, as well as a shared interest in ensuring stability, security, and sustainable development across the Eurasian region.
During discussions, participants reaffirmed their commitment to developing balanced, realistic, and consensus-based approaches to the situation in Afghanistan. Particular attention was given to restoring and expanding trade, economic, transport-logistics, and humanitarian ties with Afghanistan.
Special envoys exchanged assessments on engagement with the current de facto authorities in Afghanistan, guided by the national interests of their respective countries, and expressed readiness to enhance coordination on regional security matters - including counter-terrorism, countering extremism, combating illicit drug trafficking, and transnational crime.
Participants also highlighted Afghanistan’s potential role in advancing sustainable development goals and stressed the importance of maintaining the Contact Group as a permanent mechanism for dialogue and coordination. Agreement was reached to hold regular meetings, including in parallel with the Consultative Summits of Central Asian heads of state.
By laying the foundation for regional leadership, the parties stated that the work of the Contact Group will strengthen the independent and responsible role of Central Asian nations in shaping a unified regional agenda on Afghanistan and ensuring long-term stability across the broader macro-region.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
August 27, 2025