On July 16, 2020, by the initiative of the People’s Republic of China, the first ministerial meeting “Central Asia – China” was held in the format of a video conference.

During the videoconference, the foreign ministers of the countries participating in this new mechanism exchanged views on cooperation in combating the pandemic, economic recovery, maintaining regional security and enhancing international interaction.

In his speech, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Tajikistan Sirojiddin Muhriddin noted that interaction within the framework of the new China-Central Asia format and other mechanisms is of particular importance and plays an important role in the development and strengthening of strategic partnership between the countries of the region.

Referring to the rapidly changing world situation due to Covid-19 pandemic, the Foreign Minister of our country called on his colleagues to take effective joint measures to prevent the further spread of coronavirus infection and restore sustainable socio-economic development of the countries of the region. It was noted that the Covid-19 pandemic has presented humanity with serious challenges and problems. In this regard, he called on the participating countries of this format to unite in the fight against the consequences of the pandemic by using all existing resources and opportunities.

It was emphasized that the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan is taking the necessary measures to prevent this infection. In this context, gratitude was expressed for the assistance and support provided to Tajikistan by China and countries of Central Asia in the fight against coronavirus infection.

Touching upon the issues of further development of regional interaction, S. Muhriddin noted it is necessary to promote energy and industrial projects and support the agricultural sector, expanding the export potential, and ensuring uninterrupted transit of goods.

Stressing the importance of cooperation between the countries of the region in the field of security, he noted that for sustainable peace and stability in Afghanistan, which are key factors in ensuring security in the region, it is necessary to give priority to the social and economic rehabilitation of this country.

In conclusion, the Foreign Ministers adopted a Joint Statement of the First Ministerial Meeting “Central Asia and China”.