Representatives of the five Central Asian countries and the United States met in Astana on June 10 for the second session of the C5+1 Critical Minerals Dialogue, focusing on cooperation in critical mineral supply chains, investment opportunities, and regional economic development.
Uzbekistan was represented by Minister of Mining and Geology Bobur Islamov, while the United States delegation was led by Sergio Gor, U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for South and Central Asia.
The dialogue forms part of broader engagement between the United States and Central Asian countries on issues related to critical minerals, which are widely used in industrial production, infrastructure, energy technologies, telecommunications, and defense-related sectors.
U.S. highlights strategic importance of Central Asia
Speaking during the meeting, Gor stated that the United States considers Central Asia an increasingly important partner and intends to expand engagement with countries in the region.
According to remarks reported by The Astana Times, Gor said the region had not previously received sufficient attention from the United States and emphasized Washington’s interest in strengthening partnerships and identifying areas of mutual economic benefit.
He noted that critical mineral supply chains remain a priority area for the current U.S. administration, particularly as governments and industries seek to secure access to materials required for manufacturing, technology development, and infrastructure projects.
Investment opportunities under consideration
Gor said the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) is assessing potential investments across Central Asia in sectors including critical minerals, telecommunications, infrastructure, and regional connectivity.
According to his remarks, DFC sees opportunities to support the development of critical mineral resources as part of broader industrial growth initiatives in the region.
The discussions also addressed transportation and trade infrastructure, including the Trans-Caspian Corridor, which has attracted growing international attention as a route connecting Central Asia with markets in Europe and beyond.
Focus on supply chain development
Participants discussed efforts to develop resilient and transparent supply chains for critical minerals. Governments and international partners have increasingly focused on diversifying sources of supply for these resources as global demand rises.
The dialogue provided a platform for Central Asian countries and the United States to exchange views on resource development, investment frameworks, and opportunities for greater cooperation across the mining and processing sectors.
Uzbekistan-U.S. cooperation on critical minerals
The meeting follows the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Uzbekistan and the United States on critical mineral cooperation in February 2026.
The agreement was signed in Washington by Uzbekistan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bakhtiyor Saidov, and US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau during a ministerial meeting attended by representatives from 54 countries.
The memorandum outlines cooperation in the supply and development of critical mineral resources and forms part of broader economic engagement between the two countries.
