Regional cooperation shaped the opening of the Tianshan Forum for Central Asia Economic Cooperation in Urumqi, Xinjiang. The two-day event gathered senior officials, policy experts, and business leaders to strengthen shared development goals across the CAREC region.
The forum also marked the 10th anniversary of the CAREC Institute. The milestone added importance to ongoing dialogue. With Mongolia preparing to chair the CAREC Program in 2026, the discussions carried additional strategic significance.
Mongolia’s State Secretary of the Ministry of Finance Ganbat Jigjid delivered opening remarks alongside finance ministers from China and Pakistan. Ganbat stressed that regional cooperation remains essential for building stability and attracting long-term investment.
More than 300 representatives from governments, the private sector, and international institutions attended the gathering. Participants focused on trade corridors, infrastructure upgrades, and improved investment frameworks. Organizers noted that regional cooperation can help reduce logistics barriers and increase competitiveness.
Speakers emphasized Central Asia’s growing role as a key transport and trade link between Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. They highlighted that modernized transportation networks, harmonized regulations, and digital systems could accelerate cross-border commerce.
Ganbat reiterated Mongolia’s commitment to supporting a more connected and investment-friendly region during its chairmanship. He stated that transparency, stronger institutions, and private sector engagement will remain priorities moving forward.
Throughout the sessions, experts examined digital trade, renewable energy financing, and public-private partnerships. Analysts said the discussions strengthened political alignment and reinforced confidence among member states.
The forum will close with a set of recommendations to guide the CAREC agenda in the coming year. Delegates expressed optimism that continued dialogue will support resilient economies, stronger trade networks, and long-term stability.
In the end, participants agreed that regional cooperation offers the clearest path toward shared economic growth and a more integrated future.
