Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- The fifth anniversary Consultative Meeting of the Heads of States of Central Asia, chaired by the President of the Republic of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon, was attended by the Heads of States of Central Asia, as well as the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev as an honorary guest.

In accordance with the agenda, issues of further expansion of multifaceted cooperation in the region were discussed, including the development of political dialogue, promotion of joint programs and projects in the fields of trade, investment, transport, energy, agriculture and ecology, intensification of cultural and humanitarian exchange, as well as responding to modern challenges and security threats.

Speaking at the V Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, among other aspects of regional cooperation, especially emphasized the importance of the cultural and humanitarian sphere.

The President of Uzbekistan noted that: “Our key priority has traditionally been cultural and humanitarian cooperation, which is based on common history, traditions, culture and values - the unity and diversity of the unique Central Asian civilization.”

In order to ensure systematic work in this direction, it was proposed to adopt an Action Plan to deepen cultural and humanitarian interaction between the countries of Central Asia.

The initiative of the Head of Uzbekistan promotes closer relations between the peoples of Central Asia from time immemorial, living on this fertile land, united by a common history, culture, traditions and customs.

Another significant initiative of the Leader of Uzbekistan was the creation of the International media platform “History and culture of Central Asia: one past and a common future,” which will make use of the capabilities of the media and non-governmental organizations in promoting the unique cultural, historical and spiritual heritage of the region.

This platform promotes the joint study and development of historical and cultural heritage, the creation of conditions for the exchange of experience, the development and strengthening of ties between scientific communities, and will also serve to strengthen mutual understanding and regional identity.

In his speech, the President of Uzbekistan paid special attention to the youth policy of the Central Asian states, proposing the creation of a Center for Empowerment and Self-realization of Central Asian Youth.

The center will become a platform for self-realization of young people, helping them find their calling, develop their hobbies and interests.

Shavkat Mirziyoyev also proposed to establish scientific and educational grants and scholarships for talented youth of Central Asian countries named after Al-Khorezmi, Farabi, Jami, Magtymguly, Chingiz Aitmatov.

The establishment of educational grants will help attract young and promising scientists and students to the region, and will also counter the outflow of talented people from the countries of the region.

Undoubtedly, the current anniversary Consultative Meeting of Heads of State contributes to even greater rapprochement and integration of the Central Asian region, setting the tone for further dialogue in strengthening regional stability and integration, countering global challenges and threats, developing economic cooperation, security cooperation, resolving border issues, and also promotes improving the image of the region in the international community.

Azer Adygezalov, Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Historical Sciences, Chief Researcher at the International Institute of Central Asia