Rubio's Uzbekistan Visit

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio visits Uzbekistan to promote trade and ties with Central Asia.

Trip Amid Criticism

Rubio's trip faces criticism for focusing on politically safer meetings over pressing U.S. foreign policy issues.

C5+1 Diplomatic Forum

Rubio meets with Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan leaders under the C5+1 forum.

Rubio's Statement

Rubio said, 'Central Asia has just not gotten the level of attention from our policymakers over the last 20 years that it deserves.'

“Central Asia has just not gotten the level of attention from our policymakers over the last 20 years that it deserves.”

Historical Context

U.S. interest in Central Asia surged briefly after the Soviet Union collapsed but waned until post-9/11.

Economic Focus

Rubio highlighted Central Asia as a new location for investment and export, with 300+ American businesses participating.

Abraham Accords

Kazakhstan is the only Central Asian nation to sign the Abraham Accords with Israel.