Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 18 April, the second meeting of the Secretaries of the Security Councils of Central Asian states took place in Samarkand.

The participants of the meeting discussed key issues related to ensuring regional security, combating terrorism, extremism, radicalization, and transnational organized crime. Additionally, the discussion covered cooperation in the areas of environmental and transportation security in Central Asia.

During the event, Eldor Aripov, Director of the Institute for Strategic and Interregional Studies under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, presented the draft Concept of Regional Security and Stability in Central Asia. The document was prepared in furtherance of an initiative by the President of Uzbekistan, which was proposed on 9 August 2024, in Astana at the sixth Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of the region.

Eldor Aripov emphasized that in the context of the rapidly changing geopolitical and geo-economic situation in the world, the development and adoption of such a concept is particularly relevant. According to him, it is necessary to formulate a unified approach and shared vision on security, resilience, and development issues in Central Asia.

He also noted that the region is entering a new phase of development. Thanks to mutual interest and coordinated efforts, a favorable atmosphere has been formed, providing a stable and progressive character to multi-vector cooperation.

In this context, ensuring regional stability and security in the face of internal and external challenges has become a key condition for maintaining the dynamic and sustainable growth of Central Asian states.

The ISMI head stated that the distinguishing features of the proposed concept are its openness to cooperation, its peaceful and inclusive nature, and the absence of any intent against third parties.

Special attention in the draft is given to the multidimensional nature of security, the need for a comprehensive approach, joint responses to modern challenges and threats, as well as the interconnection between security and sustainable development in the region.