Mirziyoyev Reaffirms Importance of Afghanistan in Regional Engagement
At the first Central Asia–Japan summit, Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev said that Afghanistan remains one of the key areas of regional engagement.
He expressed hope that Afghanistan will move toward peace, stability, and a focus on meaningful development.
Excerpt from President Mirziyoyev’s remarks: “Afghanistan continues to be one of our main areas of engagement. We share a common vision of a peaceful, stable Afghanistan focused on meaningful development. We also appreciate Japan’s consistent stance, as it has long been one of the leading donors and key partners in supporting the Afghan people. I am confident that our joint efforts and collective contributions will help improve quality of life, drive socio-economic and infrastructure development, and promote Afghanistan’s active participation in regional economic projects.”
Yousuf Amin Zazai, a political analyst, said: “It’s essential for all sides to maintain positive and constructive engagement. Afghanistan is a neighboring country, and any developments here positive or negative have a direct impact on neighboring and regional states.”
President Mirziyoyev also reiterated his appreciation for Japan’s years of support for Afghanistan and assured that joint actions and cooperation would contribute to improving living standards, developing infrastructure and the economy, and boosting Afghanistan’s regional participation.
The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan also responded positively to Uzbekistan’s position, stating that Afghanistan maintains constructive and friendly relations with Uzbekistan, Japan, and other regional and global partners.
Hamdullah Fitrat, Deputy Spokesman of the Islamic Emirate, said: “Afghanistan has positive relations with Uzbekistan, Japan, and other countries, and it seeks to further strengthen these engagements. Other nations, like Uzbekistan, can support economic and infrastructure projects and play a role in Afghanistan’s and the region’s stability.”
Previously, President Mirziyoyev also emphasized the importance of continued “close political dialogue” and cooperation with Afghanistan within “multilateral frameworks” during a meeting with China’s foreign minister.
