TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, November 16. Azerbaijan will make a significant contribution to strengthening interregional cooperation, said President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev at the 7th Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia in Tashkent, Trend’s special correspondent reports.
The head of state welcomed President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and called the decision to admit Azerbaijan as a full participant in the format a historic one.
President Tokayev expressed confidence that Baku, in its new status, will play a significant role in enhancing regional cooperation.
He emphasized that the Consultative Meetings of the Heads of State have proven their effectiveness.
“Central Asia is now undergoing a period of large-scale transformation. We can confidently say that the era of closed borders and isolation is behind us. The internal cohesion of the region, achieved through joint efforts, opens wide horizons for development and international cooperation for our countries. The region’s important role in global processes is recognized by leading world powers. Against this backdrop, interest in the ‘Central Asia Plus’ format is growing. This year is indicative in this regard, considering the summits held with key international partners. In my view, the main objectives of such partnership are to strengthen stability in the region and create conditions for sustainable progress, ensuring the well-being and prosperity of our countries and peoples. Our goal is to reinforce Central Asia’s status as a region of dynamic socio-economic development, comprehensive cooperation, peace, and prosperity,” the president said.