The President of Uzbekistan introduced new initiatives to develop cooperation between Central Asia and Japan

In accordance with the agenda, expansion prospects were considered mutually beneficial cooperation between the states of Central Asia and Japan in such priority areas as the green economy and sustainable development, strengthening interconnectedness and regional interaction, human resource development.

In his speech, the head of our state noted that more than 20 years ago, it was Japan that initiated the first dialogue in the “Central Asia Plus” format. A solid basis for the development of multifaceted cooperation between Central Asia and Japan are deep historical ties dating back to the times of the Great Silk Road, as well as the similarity of traditions and customs, spiritual, cultural and family values.

– We highly appreciate that Japan, throughout the period after the countries of Central Asia gained independence, has been our reliable partner, making a significant contribution to the socio-economic development of the region, modernization of infrastructure, industrial and energy base, strengthening of scientific, educational and human resources potential. Therefore, the states of Central Asia are interested in expanding and more active presence of Japan in the region, said Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

The rich natural resources of the region, its location at the crossroads of world transport, trade and energy routes, the dynamic growth of the economies of the countries of Central Asia and the active processes of rapprochement and integration taking place here create favorable conditions for cooperation with Japan.

– I am confident that through joint efforts we will reach new heights. As Japanese wisdom says, “if you combine forces, you can move mountains,” the leader of Uzbekistan noted.

Moving on to the issues on the summit agenda, the President of our country presented his vision for the development of interaction in the “Central Asia + Japan” format.

First of all, it is proposed to hold summits at the level of heads of state every two years, which will give an additional powerful impetus to cooperation. They expressed readiness to host one of the next such meetings in Uzbekistan.

Japan's initiative to create a new permanent mechanism in the field of justice and law, as well as organizing the first meeting of justice ministers in Tokyo next year, was supported.

The head of state advocated the development of the Cooperation Strategy "Central Asia - Japan 2040", including in it specific programs and assistance projects sustainable development of the countries of the region and their deeper integration into global economic processes.

The need for the establishment of an Expert Forum with the participation of leading analytical structures to develop new ideas and proposals and form a full-scale cooperation agenda was noted. The first meeting of the Forum is proposed to be held next year in Tashkent.

The leader of Uzbekistan welcomed the expansion of support from Japanese financial institutions for trade, economic and investment projects in Central Asia.

– I am confident that by combining the rich natural and human resources of Central Asia with the industrial and technological potential of Japan, we will be able to achieve a synergy effect, said Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

In this regard, it was proposed to establish an Investment Fund for the Development of Infrastructure and Industry of Central Asia, launching a “Quality Infrastructure” Program on its basis, as well as to create a Central Asian network of Japanese technology parks - a regional platform for industrial cooperation, localization and technology transfer.

Taking into account the growing importance of digital transformation in ensuring economic growth and sustainability, the head of Uzbekistan advocated the creation of a digital hub "Central Asia - Japan" is a multilateral platform for cooperation in the field of digital solutions, artificial intelligence, Internet of things, cybersecurity and innovative economy.

Interest was expressed in attracting Japanese investments, technologies and expert assistance in projects for the creation of high-speed railways and highways, digitalization of transport corridors, construction of airports and logistics centers.

Within the framework of cooperation in the field of "green" Energy noted the importance of implementing joint projects to introduce cogeneration technologies, reduce losses, capture and use carbon dioxide. It was proposed to create a Regional Training Center for specialists in the field of renewable energy in Tashkent.

In the environmental sphere, the head of state advocated the launch of a joint Program to improve air quality in Central Asia, the adoption of a joint Action Plan to combat climate change, as well as the creation of a new format for meetings of heads of environmental protection departments within the framework of the Dialogue.

Taking into account Japan's vast experience in the field of seismic safety, it was proposed to implement a joint Program for assessing and improving seismic resilience in the region, to open in Tashkent Regional Center for Advanced Training for the training of engineers, architects, rescue services according to Japanese standards and protocols.

In order to further expand cooperation in the cultural and humanitarian sphere, it is proposed to hold the first Meeting of Ministers of Education in the “Central Asia + Japan” format and the Forum of Rectors of Leading Universities next year in Uzbekistan, as well as to adopt a Regional Network Program for Youth Development aimed at forming long-term ties between youth communities.

Referring to issues of international politics and ensuring regional security, the leader of our country noted that the countries of the region and Japan are united in the desire to see Afghanistan peaceful, stable and oriented towards creative development.

The consistent position of Japan, which for many years has remained among the leading donors and partners in supporting the Afghan people, was highly appreciated.

At the end of his speech, the President of Uzbekistan expressed support for decisions on all issues on the agenda.

Other leaders also spoke at the summit. As a result of the event, the Tokyo Declaration was adopted.