US President Donald Trump will host the leaders of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan in Washington on Thursday, marking the first time all five Central Asian heads of state have gathered together in the US capital. The meeting comes just months after the same leaders held separate summits with Russia’s Vladimir Putin and China’s Xi Jinping, underscoring the growing competition for influence in the resource-rich region.
Since the war in Ukraine, Moscow’s traditional dominance in Central Asia has been challenged, while China has expanded its role as a major commercial partner through large-scale infrastructure projects. Turkiye has also strengthened its military and trade ties, capitalizing on cultural connections and Russia’s distraction. The West, meanwhile, has stepped up its diplomacy, with Washington and the European Union seeking to deepen engagement through the C5+1 format, which brings together the United States and the five Central Asian republics.
The leaders of the region, who gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, have increasingly presented a united front in diplomacy after resolving many of their internal disputes. This unity has made them more attractive partners for global powers eager to secure energy, trade routes and strategic influence.
The summit in Washington is expected to focus on critical minerals, energy security and investment opportunities, as well as broader cooperation on supply chains and regional stability. For the United States, the gathering offers a chance to counterbalance China’s growing dominance and Russia’s lingering influence. For Central Asian leaders, it provides an opportunity to diversify alliances and secure new economic deals.
This high-level meeting signals Washington’s intent to play a more prominent role in shaping the future of Central Asia, a region that has become a focal point in the global race for influence.
+ There are no comments
Add yours