Uzbekistan and the United States aim not only to develop bilateral relations but also to strengthen cooperation designed to unlock the full potential of Central Asia as a unified region. Uzbek Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov made the remarks at the opening of the ministerial-level meeting in the C5+1 format in Samarkand.

Bakhtiyor Saidov warmly welcomed U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who is making his first visit to Uzbekistan, and praised the efforts of the delegation he leads to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries.

The minister also emphasized that U.S. President Donald Trump attaches particular importance to expanding cooperation with Central Asia. According to Saidov, the dialogue based on mutual trust between the presidents of Uzbekistan and the United States has opened up new opportunities for developing bilateral relations.

Samarkand’s selection as the venue for the meeting carries particular significance. The first ministerial meeting in the C5+1 format was held in this very city in 2015. Since then, the cooperation agenda has expanded and the mechanisms for engagement have been improved. Regional cooperation among Central Asian states has also strengthened, while their ability to determine their own future has increased.

Bakhtiyor Saidov noted that the sustainable development of Central Asia is important not only for the countries of the region but also for their international partners. “A strong, stable and prosperous Central Asia is in the interests of all our countries and international partners,” he stressed.

According to the minister, Uzbekistan is assuming the role of co-chair of the C5+1 Secretariat. It aims to build on the results already achieved, ensure continuity in cooperation and help translate the agreements reached into practical action.

The meeting also highlighted Samarkand’s historical significance. For centuries, the city has served as a crossroads of peoples, trade routes, knowledge and ideas, and it continues to be an important platform for developing international relations today.

The C5+1 meeting in Samarkand provides an opportunity to discuss the further development of political dialogue and cooperation between Central Asian countries and the United States.