Central Asia and UK Forge Strategic Partnership at CA5+UK Foreign Ministers Meeting

Foreign ministers from the five Central Asian nations and the United Kingdom convened in London for a high-level meeting under the CA5+UK format. The discussions centered on deepening economic ties, enhancing trade and investment, and developing international transport corridors to boost regional connectivity.

Kazakhstan's Foreign Minister, Yermek Kosherbayev, emphasized the pragmatic and mutually beneficial nature of strategic cooperation between the region and the UK. He highlighted Kazakhstan's pivotal role as a transit hub, noting that approximately 85% of land freight between Europe and Asia passes through Kazakh territory via 13 major transit corridors.

"Kazakhstan plays a leading role in ensuring regional connectivity," stated Kosherbayev. "Through the prism of such priorities emerges the idea of the CA5+UK format. Within this framework, we view the United Kingdom as a long-term partner and are ready to jointly ensure practical results for our economies, societies, and common future."

UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper acknowledged Central Asia's significance as a dynamically developing region with steady economic growth, enhanced regional cooperation, and an increasing role in international affairs. She noted the region's pragmatic approach to engagement and its expanding participation in shaping modern economic and political architecture.

The meeting paid special attention to creating synergies between Central Asia's resource and transit potential and British strengths in finance, regulatory standards, technology, and education.

The Central Asian ministers praised the CA5+UK format as an effective mechanism for building structured dialogue with external partners. They noted it allows for a comprehensive review of the regional agenda based on shared interests while creating new opportunities for advancing economic initiatives and implementing joint projects.