Termez platform – dialogue for ensuring security and stability in Central and South Asia

Since ancient times, Central and South Asia have been closely connected through trade, cultural exchange and political processes. Geographical proximity and ancient trade routes contributed to active dialogue between peoples and civilizations, the exchange of goods and culture as well as the formation of a shared historical and cultural identity in the region. Following the acquisition
of independence, the Central Asian states began gradually developing their own foreign policy and economic strategies toward South Asia.

Given the significance of Central and South Asia, shaped by their strategic location, abundant natural resources, demographic potential and historical heritage, these regions have become the subject of extensive scientific research. Thus, from the perspective of the regional security complex, scholars consider Central and South Asia as two independent yet equal regions. In this context, it is important
to emphasize the transformation of Afghanistan’s role as a key component of the regional security complex, facilitating interconnectedness and the gradual rapprochement between South and Central Asia[1].

The development of transport interconnectivity is the foundation for revitalizing connectivity between Central and South Asia

I. Historical foundations of the interconnectedness of Central and South Asia

From ancient times, Central and South Asia have been closely intertwined through a network of trade, cultural, and intellectual ties. Their geographical location at the crossroads of the Great Silk Road facilitated the active exchange of goods, knowledge and ideas. Through this interaction, knowledge, scientific advances in medicine, astronomy, mathematics and architecture were disseminated, while spiritual and cultural values were formed that influenced the development of world civilization.

Over the centuries, these regions not only engaged in active trade but also frequently became part of common political entitiesIn different epochs, mighty powers such as the Greco-Bactrian and Kushan kingdoms, the Turkic Khaganate, and the states of the Ghaznavids, Timurids, and Baburids emerged in this region. Figures who left a profound mark on the history of science and literature—ranging from Al-Khwarizmi and Ibn Sina to Alisher Navoi and Rabindranath Tagore—became symbols of the significant intellectual and spiritual progress fostered by the close ties between Central and South Asia.

Strengthening the international legal aspects of cooperation between Central and South Asia

In recent years, interregional cooperation between Central Asian and South Asian States has been developing. The Central Asia region includes Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. The South Asia region includes Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka with a population of 40% of the population of Asia and 22% of the world's population.

In terms of strengthening cooperation between the two regions, it is worth noting such an important aspect as historical, which is associated with the ancient trade routes of the Great Silk Road, which took place since the III century BC.

Uzbekistan pursuing its active foreign policy within the framework of international organizations, especially in the last decade has been actively promoting international treaty initiatives from the rostrum of the United Nations. For example, on July 11, 2022, the General Assembly unanimously approved resolution 76/295 “On strengthening the interconnectedness between Central and South Asia”, initiated by Uzbekistan in co-authorship with 40 countries, including Azerbaijan, Armenia, Angola, Angola, Cuba, Ghana, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Qatar, China, China, Côte d'Ivoire, Egypt, Iran, Nepal, Malaysia, Mongolia, Morocco, Pakistan, Russia, Philippines, Qatar, Senegal, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Vanuatu, Vietnam and others.

Development of regional interconnectivity is the key to security and stability in Central and South Asia

entral and South Asia, with its significant economic, demographic and resource potential, remains one of the least integrated regions of the world. Strengthening interconnectivity between them is not only an economic necessity, but also a strategic imperative dictated by the tasks of ensuring regional security, sustainable development and stability.

Historically, the two regions were closely linked by trade and cultural routes, primarily along the Silk Road. However, the geopolitical upheavals of the 19th and 20th centuries, including the protracted conflict in Afghanistan and competition between external powers, led to the severance of these ties and increased mutual isolation.

Today, under conditions of globalization, the restoration of these lost links becomes an objective requirement of international trade and economic integration. Access to seaports is critical for Central Asian countries to expand their foreign economic activities. South Asia, in turn, is interested in energy and water resources, as well as access to new markets. The economic complementarities between the regions provide ample opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation.

Tashkent to host First Central Asia – GCC Think Tank Forum

On 28-29 April 2025, Tashkent will host the First Central Asia –the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Think Tank Forum on the topic: “Strengthening Strategic Partnership: From Historical Ties to Comprehensive Cooperation”.

The event is organized by the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Saudi Arabian Gulf Research Center.

European Union - Central Asia: regional consolidation and global partnership

On April 4, 2025, the first “Central Asia - European Union” official summit will be held in Samarkand, under the chairmanship of the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev. This event is set to become a significant political milestone and will mark the beginning of a new phase in the relationship between the two regions.

An important prerequisite for the institutionalization of this format were the meetings of the leaders of Central Asian countries and the European Union in Astana and Cholpon-Ata in 2022 and 2023. The holding of the Samarkand summit demonstrates that the interaction between the countries of the Central Asian region and the EU has reached a new level, as well as the high strategic importance of the dialog for both sides.

Samarkand to host first “Central Asia – European Union” summit on April 3-4

The first “Central Asia – European Union” summit will take place in Samarkand on April 3-4.

According to the press service of the Head of our state, the summit which will be chaired by the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, will be attended by the President of the European Council Antonio Costa, President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, President of Kyrgyzstan Sadyr Japarov, President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon, and the President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov.

Tashkent as a center of parliamentary diplomacy: the anniversary IPU Assembly

In April 2025, Tashkent will host the 150th anniversary Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) for the first time in the history of Central Asia. This event brings together over 2000 parliamentarians from more than 100 national parliaments, providing a unique opportunity to discuss key global issues. The selection of Tashkent as the venue for this important event underscores the growing influence of New Uzbekistan in international parliamentary diplomacy and its commitment to democratic reforms, and also confirms the country's status as a center for constructive political dialogue in the region.

The Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) is one of the most important international organizations uniting national parliaments. Its work is based on the principle outlined by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, who emphasized, "Parliaments must not only enact laws but also oversee their implementation on behalf of the people."

The President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev also emphasizes: "The Parliament should become a genuine school of democracy, an initiator and a decisive force in the implementation of reforms."

These words reflect Uzbekistan's efforts to strengthen parliamentary oversight, expand the powers of the deputy corps, and increase the transparency of the legislative process. Hosting the 150th IPU Assembly in Tashkent is not only a historic event for the country but also a new milestone in the development of parliamentary diplomacy in Central Asia.