The first “Central Asia + Japan” Summit was held in Tokyo, marking an important historical milestone in further deepening multifaceted cooperation between the countries of Central Asia and Japan. The summit was organized at a high level under the chairmanship of Japanese Prime Minister Ms. Takaichi.
In his address, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev noted that relations between Central Asia and Japan date back to the era of the Great Silk Road, while the similarity of traditions, values, and the mentality of the peoples serves as a solid foundation for strengthening partnership.
It was particularly emphasized that Japan has been a reliable partner of the region throughout the years of independence, making a significant contribution to socio-economic development, the modernization of infrastructure, industry, and energy sectors, as well as to the advancement of science and education.
Within the framework of the summit, the Tokyo Declaration was adopted, and a number of important initiatives were put forward to institutionally strengthen cooperation in the “Central Asia Plus Japan” format. In particular, it was proposed to hold summits every two years at the level of heads of state, to develop the long-term cooperation strategy “Central Asia–Japan 2040,” and to establish an Expert Forum.
Priority areas were also identified, including the expansion of trade, economic, and investment cooperation, the launch of the “Quality Infrastructure” program, the creation of a network of technoparks, and the implementation of joint programs in digital transformation, transport and logistics, green energy, ecology, and seismic safety.
The importance of expanding cooperation in education, science, youth exchanges, culture, and tourism was noted, as well as intensifying joint efforts to ensure peace and stability in Afghanistan.
Summit participants expressed confidence that the practical implementation of the proposed initiatives would elevate the strategic partnership between Central Asia and Japan to a new level.
