Putin Calls for Stronger Russia–Central Asia Cooperation at Dushanbe Summit

Russian President Vladimir Putin urged closer political and economic ties between Russia and Central Asian nations during the second Russia–Central Asia summit held in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, on Thursday.

The meeting brought together the leaders of Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan and Tajikistan, focusing on deepening cooperation in trade, energy, infrastructure, and regional security. A Joint Action Plan for 2025–2027 was adopted to advance partnerships across multiple sectors.

Putin highlighted that trade between Russia and the five Central Asian republics exceeded $45 bn in 2024, with more than 25K companies operating in the region using Russian capital. He emphasized growing industrial cooperation, including projects in automotive manufacturing, energy, and agricultural machinery.

On energy, Putin announced joint plans to modernise Soviet-era hydroelectric plants and develop new nuclear power projects using Russian technology. He also noted Russia’s $33 million contribution to environmental programs, including Aral Sea restoration and water management initiatives.

Addressing regional security, Putin warned that terrorist groups in Afghanistan continue to pose risks and said Moscow is ready to support counterterrorism efforts and cooperate with Afghan authorities.

He also called for diplomatic solutions to tensions over Iran’s nuclear program, saying «there is no reasonable alternative to negotiations.»

The Dushanbe summit underscored Russia’s continued push to reinforce its influence in Central Asia through economic integration, infrastructure investment, and regional stability initiatives.