Kazakhstan and UK Discuss Economic Ties and Transport Corridors at CA5+UK Meeting

Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan Yermek Kosherbayev participated in a meeting of foreign ministers from Central Asian nations and the United Kingdom, held in London under the "Central Asia + UK" (CA5+UK) format.

The discussions centered on a broad range of bilateral and regional issues, with a focus on enhancing economic growth, trade, investment cooperation, and supporting regional connectivity through the development of international transport routes.

In his address, Kosherbayev emphasized the importance of pragmatic and mutually beneficial strategic engagement between the region and the UK to foster economic development and sustainable growth for all involved countries.

"Kazakhstan plays a leading role in ensuring regional connectivity. Thirteen major transit corridors pass through our territory, with approximately 85% of land freight between Europe and Asia transiting via Kazakhstan," stated Kosherbayev. "Through this prism emerges the idea of the 'CA5+UK' format. We view the United Kingdom as a long-term partner within this framework and are ready to jointly deliver practical results for our economies, societies, and common future."

UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper highlighted Central Asia's significance as a dynamically developing region with steady economic growth rates, deepening regional cooperation, and an increasing role in international affairs. She noted that countries in the region demonstrate a pragmatic approach to interaction, strengthen mutual connectivity, and consistently expand their participation in shaping modern economic and political cooperation architecture.

The meeting paid particular attention to synergizing Central Asia's resource and transit potential with British capabilities in finance, regulatory standards, technology, and education.

The Central Asian foreign ministers praised the CA5+UK format as an important mechanism for interaction between the UK and Central Asian states. They underscored that this format has already proven itself as an effective tool for building structured and substantive dialogue with external partners. It allows for a comprehensive consideration of the regional agenda while accounting for common interests and priorities of Central Asian nations, creating additional opportunities for advancing economic initiatives and implementing joint projects.