The eighth Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asian countries and the Republic of Azerbaijan was held on October 8, 2026, in the Avaza National Tourist Zone. Azerbaijan officially participated in the meeting for the first time, bringing the regional cooperation format to six participating countries.
The main topics included expanding regional economic cooperation, developing transport and logistics corridors, and strengthening cooperation in energy, industry, technology and environmental protection.
The heads of state highlighted the importance of improving transport connectivity along the East-West and North-South routes, as well as expanding the potential of corridors linking Central Asia with the South Caucasus and Europe via the Caspian Sea. Cooperation in the energy sector, including natural gas and electricity supplies, was also identified as a priority.
In trade and economic relations, discussions focused on increasing trade turnover, encouraging investment and developing joint projects in industry and agricultural processing. Proposals were also put forward to expand cooperation in artificial intelligence, digital technologies and the “Smart Cities Diplomacy” initiative.
The meeting also addressed the sustainable use of water resources, environmental protection and joint efforts to tackle the effects of climate change. In the humanitarian sphere, participants emphasized cooperation in culture, science and education, as well as strengthening ties between their peoples.
The meeting concluded with the signing of a Joint Statement and a decision concerning the regulatory documents of the Consultative Meeting. It was also agreed that the next Consultative Meeting would take place in the Republic of Azerbaijan in 2027.
The proposals put forward at the meeting are aimed at further developing cooperation in transport, energy, trade, technology and environmental protection. Turning these proposals into concrete projects and practical outcomes will require continued joint efforts by the participating countries.
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