Dushanbe Hosts Key Eurasian Summits to Boost Regional Ties

This week, Dushanbe has emerged as a hub for Eurasian diplomacy, hosting the "Central Asia-Russia" summit and the Council of CIS Heads of State meeting. Over the course of two days, regional leaders are discussing crucial issues like security, economic connections, transportation infrastructure, energy collaboration, and new approaches to regional unity.

The "Central Asia-Russia" summit, first held in Astana in 2022, emphasized themes such as counterterrorism, small business support, and advancements in energy and digitalization. Experts say this summit complements existing groups like the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) by providing a more adaptable venue for dialogue.

Alibek Tazhibaev, Director of the Center for Eurasian Monitoring, highlighted the summit's potential to facilitate swift infrastructure and regulatory initiatives. He pointed out that the region has become a key area for industrial and logistical cooperation with Russia, as economic ties deepen under sanctions. Discussions center on transport corridors, gas transit through Kazakhstan, and new energy facilities, with trade between Central Asia and Russia reaching nearly $45 billion, marking a significant rise.

A priority is transforming Central Asia from a transit route to a region that adds value. Tazhibaev suggested that with digital gateways and logistics standards, the region could become a "door-to-door" service hub, enhancing profit retention and standard management.

Simultaneously, the CIS summit in Dushanbe continues to be a vital cooperative platform. Taisiya Marmontova from Astana International University noted the CIS’s role in preserving dialogue post-USSR. The CIS reports a steady GDP growth and a 40% increase in internal trade over five years, with Kazakhstan playing a significant role.

Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev proposed initiatives like a "CIS+" dialogue format and an intergovernmental program called the "Commonwealth Fair," set to debut in 2026. Additional agreements include strategies for transport corridor digitalization and scientific development.

Marmontova emphasized communication and integration as essential for navigating current geopolitical challenges. The CIS is fostering a "second wind" through new mechanisms like a free trade agreement on services and transport digitalization.

In this evolving landscape, Central Asia is becoming a strategic link between Europe and Asia, positioning itself as a significant player in a multipolar world.