This week in Central Asia featured new trade and investment agreements, cultural showcases, and sports triumphs. The region continues to strengthen international ties while celebrating local accomplishments across multiple sectors.
Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan, Grenada agree on visa-free travel for diplomats and officials
Kazakhstan and Grenada have signed an agreement allowing holders of diplomatic and service passports to enter each country without a visa for up to 30 days. The deal aims to strengthen bilateral ties and deepen friendly relations between the two nations.
Source: astanatimes.com
Almaty hosts opening of 4th International Youth Festival of the Organization of Turkic States
The 4th International Youth Festival of the Organization of Turkic States officially opened in Almaty, with participation from Kazakhstan’s Minister of Culture and Information Aida Balayeva, OTS Secretary General KubanychbekOmuraliev, and Almaty Mayor DarkhanSatybaldy. During the ceremony, Almaty was formally granted the title of Youth Capital of the Turkic World 2025, highlighting the city’s growing role in youth policy and cultural cooperation across Turkic nations.
Source: zakon.kz
Kazakhstan and China aim to double trade volume by 2030
Kazakhstan’s Minister of Trade and Integration Arman Shakkaliyev and China’s Minister of Commerce Wang Wentao agreed to work toward doubling bilateral trade by 2030. The plan focuses on cross-border cooperation under the Belt and Road initiative, boosting transit potential, high value-added exports, and e-commerce.
Source: asatanatimes.com
Rybakina opens US Open 2025 in star-studded mixed doubles event
Kazakhstan’s Elena Rybakina, ranked world No. 10, will team up with American Taylor Fritz in the new mixed doubles format at the US Open 2025. The tournament features 16 star duos, including Daniil Medvedev and MirraAndreeva, GaëlMonfils and Naomi Osaka, and Casper Ruud with IgaŚwiątek, with $1 million awarded to the winners.
Source: zakon.kz
Kazakhstan celebrates 10 years in WTO with trade and investment growth
Kazakhstan marks a decade since joining the World Trade Organization, highlighting significant progress in trade and investment. Foreign trade rose to $134.7 billion in 2024, while foreign direct investment tripled to $12.7 billion, reflecting the country’s growing role in the global economy.
Source: astanatimes.com
Tokayev and Japarov strengthen Kazakhstan–Kyrgyzstan ties
Presidents Kassym-JomartTokayev and SadyrJaparov held talks on August 22, 2025, focusing on political, economic, and cultural cooperation. Both leaders highlighted the brotherly ties between Kazakhs and Kyrgyz and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening strategic partnership.
Source: zakon.kz
Global collaboration seen as key to future of libraries, say IFLA leaders in Astana
At the 89th World Library and Information Congress, IFLA leaders highlighted the power of global collaboration in strengthening libraries’ role in society. They emphasized inclusivity, innovation, and turning discussions into long-term strategies as libraries adapt to new challenges such as AI, digital divides, and misinformation.
Source: astanatimes.com
Kazakh wrestler reaches U20 World Championship semifinals
Asian champion Dias Seitkaliev of Kazakhstan advanced to the semifinals of the U20 World Wrestling Championships in the 82 kg Greco-Roman category after a decisive victory over Greece’s EmmanouilNikolaidis.
Source: zakon.kz
Japan allocates $7.4 million grant to support victims of Semipalatinsk Nuclear tests
Japan will provide nearly 4 billion tenge to fund modern medical equipment for Semei Medical University Hospital. The grant will enhance diagnostics and treatment for residents affected by radiation from the Semipalatinsk nuclear test site, with new equipment set to be operational by 2026.
Source: astanatimes.com
Uzbekistan
Ancient arrowheads found in Uzbekistan rewrite early hunting history
Archaeologists discovered 80 000-year-old stone arrowheads in Uzbekistan’s Obi-Rahmat cave, marking some of the earliest evidence of long-range hunting in Central Asia. The find suggests that early humans in the region developed advanced projectile technology far earlier than previously believed.
Source: timesca.com
Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan strengthen ties across key sectors
In Awaza, Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Turkmen national leader GurbangulyBerdimuhamedov held talks focused on expanding bilateral cooperation. The two countries are deepening collaboration in trade, energy, transport, and agriculture, with plans to launch the “Shavat–Dashoguz” border trade zone this year.
Source: uzdaily.uz
Uzbekistan and China boost Industrial Partnership in leather and footwear
In Wenzhou, representatives of Uzbekistan’s “O‘zcharmsanoat” Association and the China Leather Industry Association discussed expanding cooperation and investment projects. Special focus was given to the “Oltinkul” industrial zone in Andijan, where new production lines and joint ventures are expected to strengthen exports and boost the leather-footwear sector.
Source: uzdaily.uz
Uzbekistan and Pakistan explore cooperation in pharmaceuticals
Uzbekistan’s Pharmaceutical Industry Development Agency met with a Pakistani delegation from Sahiwal’s Chamber of Commerce and industrial associations. The talks focused on Tashkent Pharma Park, investment opportunities, and joint work on producing and promoting supplements, with both sides agreeing to maintain regular dialogue.
Source: uzdaily.uz
UNESCO launches AI Readiness Assessment Project in Uzbekistan
UNESCO has initiated a project in Tashkent to evaluate Uzbekistan’s preparedness for adopting artificial intelligence through its RAM methodology. Officials emphasized the importance of ethical standards, transparent regulation, and aligning national policies with global frameworks as the country moves toward responsible AI integration.
Source: uzdaily.uz
Young Uzbek engineers break Guinness World Record in Robot Assembly
In Tashkent’s New Uzbekistan Park, 1946 young engineers set a Guinness World Record by simultaneously assembling working wheel-based robots. The event, part of the “Engineering Mission”,highlighted teamwork, innovation, and the growing technical potential of Uzbekistan’s youth.
Source: uzdaily.uz
Starlink expected to launch in Uzbekistan by 2026
Satellite internet provider Starlink may become available in Uzbekistan in 2026, according to the company’s official website. The rollout, previously delayed several times, would place Uzbekistan among Central Asian countries gaining access to SpaceX’s service after Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan.
Source: uzdaily.uz
Uzbekistan to showcase cultural heritage at SCO exhibition in Beijing
Uzbekistan will present its rich cultural heritage at the exhibition “Outstanding Cultural Heritage of SCO National Museums” in Beijing, running from August 27 to November 16, 2025. Preparations were discussed in a meeting between GayaneUmerova, Chair of Uzbekistan’s Art and Culture Development Foundation, and Luo Wenli, Director of China’s National Museum.
Source: uzdaily.uz
Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan to launch its first national car — Muras
At the Kyrgyz-Russian Economic Forum in Bishkek, officials unveiled plans for Muras, the country’s first national car. The project, supported by AvtoVAZ and Central Asia Capital, aims to gradually expand from 1500 cars a year to 7000 by 2035.
Source: 24.kg
Kyrgyz-German business forum to take place in Cholpon-Ata
Cholpon-Ata will host the Day of German Economy in Kyrgyzstan and the 4th meeting of the Kyrgyz-German Business Council, according to the National Investment Agency. The forum will focus on green energy, infrastructure, export potential, and logistics along the Middle Corridor, bringing together government officials, business leaders, and investors.
Source: 24.kg
Kyrgyzstan receives 17 units of modern equipment from Japan
Kyrgyzstan’s Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Processing Industry has received 17 units of modern special equipment from the Japan International Cooperation Agency to improve irrigation infrastructure. The delivery, worth over 643 million soms, is part of the project “Improving Equipment for Irrigation Canal Maintenance”, which will provide a total of 34 units by the end of the year.
Source: 24.kg
Kyrgyz National Team wins second place at Asian Taekwondo ITF Championship
Kyrgyzstan’s national team took second place overall at the Asian Taekwondo ITF Championship in Ningbo, China. Athletes from 17 countries competed, and the Kyrgyz team secured 10 gold and 6 silver medals.
Source: 24.kg
Kyrgyzstan and China open new air corridor in Naryn region
Kyrgyzstan and China have signed an agreement to open a new air crossing point in the Naryn region, marking a major step in strengthening aviation and transit cooperation. The new route is expected to improve flight safety, reduce travel times, and lower costs by providing a more convenient passage through Kyrgyz airspace. It will connect major Chinese cities such as Kashgar and Urumqi with Kyrgyzstan, opening opportunities for both passenger and cargo flights.
Source: kaktus.media
Tajikistan
First AI Forum held in Tajikistan
Dushanbe hosted its first-ever AI NEXT FORUM, highlighting the country’s growing interest in artificial intelligence. The event gathered tech experts, entrepreneurs, and international organizations to discuss AI’s role in business, education, and digital transformation.
Source: asiaplustj.info
Tajik wrestlers head to World Championships in Croatia
The national wrestling team of Tajikistan is preparing for the 2025 World Championships, set to take place in Zagreb from September 13-21. The tournament will gather nearly 900 athletes from over 60 countries, and Tajikistan’s squad will include both local wrestlers and athletes from the Yakut wrestling school.
Source: asiaplustj.info
Young Tajik chess player wins silver at World Championship in the U.S.
MurodaliSayfiev, a young chess talent from Tajikistan, earned a silver medal at the FIDE World Schools Team Championship, held August 3-6, 2025, in Alexandria, Virginia. Competing on the 4th board, he scored 6 out of 7 points, standing out among 286 participants from 48 countries.
Source: asiaplustj.info
Tajik athlete enters Top-25 in World Taekwondo rankings
MuniraAbdusalomova reached 23rd place in the updated World Taekwondo WT rankings in the 67 kg category, earning 42.24 points. Her achievement makes her one of Tajikistan’s most promising athletes ahead of upcoming international and Olympic qualifying tournaments.
Source: asiaplustj.info
Tajikistan proposes banking ties with U.S. Column Bank
The Chairman of the National Bank of Tajikistan, FirdavsTolibzoda, invited U.S.-based Column Bank to establish correspondent relations with Tajik banks, including direct accounts. The proposal, discussed during an online meeting, aims to strengthen financial cooperation and expand investment opportunities between the two countries.
Source: asiaplustj.info
Turkmenistan
Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, and Uzbekistan hold Trilateral Summit in Avaza
In the National Tourist Zone of Avaza on the Caspian coast, leaders of Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, and Uzbekistan gathered for a trilateral summit. The meeting focuses on strengthening regional cooperation in trade, energy, transport, and humanitarian fields, with several agreements expected to be signed.
Source: tdh.gov.tm
Turkmenistan and U.S. hold 11th round of Political Consultations in Washington
The 11th round of annual Turkmenistan-U.S. political consultations took place in Washington, led by Turkmen Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov and U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary John Mark Pommersheim. The sides discussed bilateral relations, regional cooperation under the C5+1 platform, and opportunities to expand trade, security, and investment partnerships.
Source: mfa.gov.tm
Turkmen taekwondo team to compete at CIS Games in Azerbaijan
Turkmenistan’s national taekwondo WT team will take part in the III CIS Games, scheduled for September 28 - October 8 in Azerbaijan. Head coach ByashimRozyyev noted that the event is an important step for the athletes and the sport’s development in the region. The team also plans to participate in the World Taekwondo Championships in Wuxi, China, this October.
Source: turkmenportal.com
Turkmen tennis players win five medals in Thailand
Young Turkmen tennis players earned four golds and one bronze at an international U14 tournament in Nonthaburi, Thailand. Ali Geldiyev and AylaraKakabaeva led the victories in singles and doubles, while Anna Ponyatova added a bronze. The event gathered athletes from 12 countries under the Asian Tennis Federation.
Source: turkmenistan.gov.tm
Ashgabat to host TIF-2025 Investment Forum
On September 18-19, Ashgabat will host the Turkmenistan Investment Forum 2025, bringing together top global investors, financial institutions, and policymakers. The event will feature sessions on energy, transport, digital and green transitions, agriculture, and regional trade, with speakers from the World Bank, EU, and German Eastern Business Association.
Source: tif-turkmenistan.com
Azerbaijan
Ruzanna Mamedova wins silver at U-20 World Wrestling Championship
In Samokov, Bulgaria, RuzannaMamedova 62 kg claimed silver after a close 6:6 final against China’s YanzheYanzhe, losing by the last-point rule. With this result, Azerbaijan’s medal tally at the championship has reached five.
Source: azertag.az
Azerbaijan’s Qarabag stuns Ferencváros in UEFA Champions League Playoff
Qarabag FK pulled off a major upset in the UEFA Champions League playoff round, defeating Hungary’s Ferencváros 3:1 away. Goals from Marko Janković, Kevin Rentería, and Musa Gurbanli gave the Azerbaijani club a strong advantage ahead of the return leg in Baku on Aug. 27.
Source: zakon.kz
Azerbaijan and Albania to expand sports cooperation
Azerbaijan and Albania are set to sign a memorandum on strengthening sports ties. The agreement was discussed in Baku during a meeting between the National Olympic Committees of both countries, focusing on new opportunities for collaboration and joint development in various sports.
Source: report.az
Azerbaijan U-17 football team defeats Montenegro
During a training camp in Montenegro, Azerbaijan’s U-17 football team secured a 1:0 victory over the hosts. The winning goal was scored by OnurAliyev in the 65th minute.
Source: report.az
Azerbaijan showcased at International Festival in Budapest
Azerbaijan is participating as an honorary guest at the 39th International Folk Art Festival held at Buda Castle in Budapest. The country is represented with three stands featuring traditional crafts, alongside 800 artisans from around the world, attracting over 100 000 visitors.
Source: report.az