Central Asian defense ministers met in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, on October 20, 2025, for the first time to discuss expanding military cooperation, joint training, and regional security. The meeting reportedly aimed to strengthen unity and trust across the region by focusing on joint military exercises and enhancing cooperation in areas like military education and research.
The defense ministers of Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan participated in this high-level meeting to discuss bolstering regional security and expanding military cooperation in Central Asia. According to the Uzbek government’s official website, the gathering marked a significant step toward deepening collaboration amid growing global security threats.
Key issues on the agenda included strengthening military and technical cooperation, joint training programs, and experience-sharing. The ministers emphasized that enhanced cooperation in countering international terrorism and fostering trust among neighboring countries is crucial for the stability of the region.
In a statement from Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, delivered by Security Council Secretary Viktor Mahmoudov, it was noted that relations among Central Asian nations—built on mutual respect and trust—have reached the level of strategic partnership and are gaining importance in today’s complex global security environment.
The meeting reportedly concluded with the signing of a protocol formalizing the outcomes of the first-ever gathering of Central Asian defense ministers.
Bilateral talks also took place between Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Defense and counterparts from Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Kyrgyzstan. These discussions focused on expanding military cooperation, joint training initiatives, and implementing regional security strategies.
As part of the outcomes, the regional military drills "Birlik-2025" are currently underway at the Kattakurgan training ground in Uzbekistan’s Samarkand region. Military units from Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Azerbaijan are participating.
The exercises include live-fire training using artillery, drones, armored vehicles, and other modern weaponry. Each training segment focuses on advanced combat tactics and includes modules on tactical communication and battlefield medical preparedness.
In addition, the drills feature military competitions such as “Tactical Shooter” and “Sarban,” showcasing the participants’ skills, discipline, and coordination.
According to Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Defense, the initial days of the "Birlik-2025" exercises have already shown promising results, highlighting growing combat readiness and interoperability among participating forces. The maneuvers aim to strengthen unity, promote peace in the region, and enhance practical cooperation in defense.
