By Tahir imin Uyghurian
The leaders of Japan and five Central Asian countries have adopted the “Tokyo Declaration”, pledging closer economic cooperation and stronger supply chains for critical minerals. The summit in Tokyo on Friday and Saturday brought together Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae and the presidents of Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan.
At the opening of the plenary session on Saturday, Takaichi said she was honored to host the first-ever summit between Japan and the five nations, noting that foreign minister-level meetings have been held for over two decades. She highlighted the rapid economic growth of Central Asian countries and their increasing roles in addressing global challenges. She also emphasized the region’s strategic position as a trade corridor connecting Asia and Europe.
The declaration commits leaders to strengthen economic ties, foster pragmatic collaboration, and promote projects totaling 3 trillion yen (about $19 billion) over five years. Leaders also agreed to collaborate on critical mineral supply chains, artificial intelligence partnerships, and the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route linking Central Asia to Europe.
Prime Minister Takaichi stressed that Japan will diversify supply sources for critical minerals, noting Central Asia’s energy and mineral reserves. Several agreements were signed to advance more than 150 business projects, including Japan’s first import of gallium from Kazakhstan, expanded uranium imports, and mineral exploration initiatives. These moves are part of Japan’s effort to reduce reliance on China, which dominates global gallium production and has restricted exports since August 2023.
Central Asia has historically been a contesting ground for Russia and China. In recent years, the region’s countries have become more active independently, engaging with the European Union, Gulf nations, and the United States. Despite strong cultural, historical, and linguistic ties with the Uyghur people, none of these Central Asian governments have publicly supported Uyghur human rights on international platforms, often siding with China on the issue.
The summit concluded with an agreement to hold the next meeting in Kazakhstan. A business forum on Saturday brought together around 700 officials and corporate representatives to explore expanded economic ties.
Takaichi said the summit highlighted the trust and expectations Central Asian leaders place in Japan, reflecting historical connections along the Silk Road. Japan intends to continue strengthening relations with the region through both multilateral and bilateral initiatives.
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