The third meeting of foreign ministers of the “Central Asia-China” format ended in Nur-Sultan yesterday, following which a number of documents aimed at deepening regional cooperation were signed, the website of the Foreign Ministry of Turkmenistan reports.

 In particular, as a result of the meeting, a Joint Statement, a Roadmap for the Development of Regional Cooperation for 2022-2025, an Initiative to Deepen Cooperation between the States of Central Asia and China in the Field of Connectivity, an Initiative for Cooperation in Ensuring Digital Data Security between China and the Countries of Central Asia, were adopted  .

 Among the topics discussed, special attention was paid to the need to consolidate joint efforts to ensure long-term peace and stability, the issues of intensifying trade, economic and investment cooperation, and expanding cultural and humanitarian ties.

 Addressing the meeting participants, Turkmen Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov noted the fruitful course of the political and diplomatic dialogue aimed at strengthening the strategic partnership between the countries of Central Asia and China in line with the agreements reached by the heads of state.

 R. Meredov made a special emphasis on the prospects for energy and transport and communication cooperation along the line of Central Asia – China.  In this regard, he noted the readiness of Turkmenistan to consistently increase the supply of natural gas to China through the territory of Central Asia.

 In terms of transport cooperation, Meredov emphasized the validity and real possibility of establishing multimodal transport links from China to the west through the territory of Central Asia.  In this context, it seems natural to use the capabilities of the port infrastructure of Turkmenistan on the Caspian Sea.

 During the meeting, special attention was also paid to the Afghan problem, joining efforts to combat new threats and challenges, and joint work to overcome the consequences of the pandemic.

 As part of the event, R. Meredov held meetings with the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and the Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan, during which issues of bilateral cooperation, regional and international issues were discussed.