Washington: The Caspian Policy Center (CPC) organized a conference titled 'A New and Expanded Central Asia: Next Steps for Trans-Caspian Growth' in Washington, the U.S. Moderated by Eric Rudenshiold, Senior Fellow for Caspian Affairs of CPC, the conference brought together American diplomats, experts, academics, and business leaders.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, Khazar Ibrahim, Azerbaijani Ambassador to U.S.; Magzhan Ilyassov, Kazakhstan's Ambassador to U.S.; and Furqat Sidiqov, Uzbekistani Ambassador to U.S., delivered speeches at the event. Efgan Nifti, CPC Chief Executive Officer, highlighted the future trajectory of the C6 format, noting significant progress in regional cooperation. He stated that Azerbaijan's official integration into the framework of the Central Asia Consultative Meetings at the Tashkent Summit exemplifies deepening cooperation among the Caspian littoral states.

Erik Rudenshiold discussed the shifting geopolitical landscape, asserting that Central Asia and the South Caucasus are no longer considered secondary geopolitical areas. Ambassador Khazar Ibrahim emphasized the role of regional unity in shaping the C6 format's future, noting that the countries have collaborated closely for years, even before Azerbaijan's official integration.

Kazakh Ambassador Magzhan Ilyassov described Azerbaijan's participation in transforming the C5 into the C6 as a historic milestone. He highlighted that the C6 format, along with the Middle Corridor, represents practical development strategies benefiting the involved nations and offering opportunities for U.S. partners.

Uzbek Ambassador Furqat Sidiqov praised the strengthening U.S.-Central Asia relations and noted the U.S. leadership's recognition of the region's strategic importance at the recent C5+1 meeting in Washington. He also highlighted the significant roles of Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan in advancing regional partnerships and the U.S.'s growing interest in the Middle Corridor, especially concerning the transportation of investments to the critical minerals sector.