Monday, 22, December, 2025

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in his remarks at the first Central Asia Plus Japan Dialogue Summit in Tokyo on Saturday put forward several proposals.

The Summit, chaired by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, was attended by the president Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan, the president Sadyr Japarov of Kyrgyzstan, the president Emomali Rahmon of Tajikistan, and the president Serdar Berdimuhamedov of Turkmenistan.

"I am confident that through joint efforts we will reach new heights. As the Japanese proverb says, If you join forces, you can move mountains".

“This summit is historic and it was Japan that initiated the first "Central Asia Plus Dialogue more than 20 years ago. Today, the countries of the region have established such a dialogue with the European Union, the United States, Russia, China, and Germany, and a summit with South Korea is planned for next year.

“The region's close trade and cultural ties with Japan have existed since the time of the Great Silk Road. The countries are also united by "similar traditions and customs, spiritual, cultural, and family values."

"We highly appreciate that Japan has been our reliable partner throughout the period since the Central Asian countries gained independence, making a significant contribution to the socioeconomic development of the region, modernizing its infrastructure, industrial and energy base, and strengthening scientific, educational, and human resources potential".

“Uzbekistan proposes the adoption of a Central Asia – Japan 2040 Cooperation Strategy. The document could include "specific programs and projects to promote the sustainable development of the countries of the region and their deeper integration into global economic processes".

“To generate new ideas and proposals and formulate a comprehensive cooperation agenda, it is important to establish an Expert Forum with the participation of leading analytical institutions from the five countries of the region and Japan. Tashkent is ready to host the forum's first meeting next year.”

“We propose holding summits at the level of heads of state every two years. And we support Japan's initiative to create a new permanent mechanism in the field of justice and law. The first meeting of justice ministers is scheduled to take place in Tokyo in 2026.”

"By combining the rich natural and human resources of Central Asia with the industrial and technological potential of Japan, we can achieve synergy".

“We propose establishing an Investment Fund for the Development of Infrastructure and Industry in Central Asia. It could serve as a foundation for the launch of a Quality Infrastructure Program aimed at attracting Japanese investment, technology, engineering standards, and expertise for the implementation of major infrastructure projects in the region.”

“We also propose the creation of a Central Asian Network of Japanese Technology Parks—a regional platform for industrial cooperation, localization, and technology transfer.”

“Digital transformation is becoming a key element of economic growth and sustainability today. Japanese companies are global leaders in digital economy segments: industrial automation, robotics and intelligent control systems, and next-generation cloud and telecommunications platforms."

“I propose the creation of a Central Asia-Japan Digital Hub—a multilateral platform for cooperation in digital solutions, artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, cybersecurity, and the innovative economy.”

“Japan, with its extensive experience in building modern and reliable transport infrastructure, can be a key partner in developing transit and logistics networks in the region”.

"We seek for Japanese investment, technology, and expert assistance to projects to build high-speed rail and highways, digitalize transport corridors, and construct airports and logistics centers".

“We can recall the Japan's Sojitz being involved in the construction of the new Tashkent International Airport.”

“Uzbekistan proposes jointly developing energy transition and green energy development projects, such as the construction of efficient thermal power plants, solar and wind power plants, and the implementation of cogeneration technologies, loss reduction, and carbon dioxide capture and utilization.”

“We also put forward an initiative to set up a Regional Center for Training Renewable Energy Specialists in Tashkent.”

“It is important to deepen cooperation in implementing the adopted regional Green Agenda program for Central Asia, which is aligned with Japan's Green Transformation initiative.”

“We propose launching a joint program to improve air quality in the region, aimed at implementing advanced solutions for monitoring, filtering, and reducing emissions, and creating a more sustainable and safer environment for the public.”

“We also suggest adopting a joint Action Plan to combat climate change and protect the environment, including projects to address environmental issues in the Aral Sea region and implement water-saving technologies; and to establish a new format for meetings between heads of environmental protection agencies within the framework of dialogue.”

“Given Japan's extensive experience in seismic safety, Uzbekistan supports the launch of a joint program to assess and improve seismic resilience.”

"The goal is to conduct a comprehensive seismic assessment of major Central Asian cities with the involvement of Japanese experts, develop roadmaps for improving seismic resilience, and launch early warning systems based on Japanese models".

“We propose opening a Regional Center for Advanced Studies in Tashkent to train engineers, architects, and rescue services according to Japanese standards and protocols.”

"We highly value Japan's assistance in the field of education and training of qualified personnel. We will continue to expand and support educational, scientific, and academic exchanges".

“We also suggest holding the first Central Asia + Japan Education Ministers' Meeting in Uzbekistan next year, as well as the first Forum of Rectors of Leading Universities in the region.”

“We advocate for the adoption of a Regional Network Program for Youth Development aimed at fostering long-term ties between youth communities and unlocking their creative, technological, and professional potential.”

“The meeting is taking place "at a time of serious turbulence in global politics, heightened geopolitical tensions, and declining trust between major countries."

"In such circumstances, the ability to join forces to maintain peace and strengthen stability is particularly important".

"Afghanistan remains one of the key areas of our cooperation. We are united in our desire to see this country peaceful, stable, and focused on constructive development".

“Japan's "consistent position, which for many years has remained among the leading donors and partners" in supporting the people of Afghanistan.”

"I am confident that our joint actions and shared contributions will contribute to improving living standards, socioeconomic and infrastructural development, and to Afghanistan's active involvement in regional economic projects".

The summit culminated in the signing of the Tokyo Declaration, aimed at strengthening cooperation between the countries of Central Asia and Japan in strategically important areas.

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