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Leaders from Japan and five Central Asian countries are poised to stress the importance of the rule of law in a joint statement following their summit in Kazakhstan later this month, according to Japanese government officials. The meeting, which underscores growing cooperation between Japan and Central Asia, aims to address regional stability and development.
The summit will bring together Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and leaders from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. This significant diplomatic gathering reflects Japan’s strategic interest in Central Asia, a region rich in natural resources and pivotal for geopolitical stability.
According to sources, the joint statement will reaffirm the leaders’ commitment to upholding the rule of law as a fundamental principle for ensuring peace, security, and prosperity. This summit provides a platform to strengthen our shared values and address common challenges.”
The statement is expected to address various aspects of the rule of law, including good governance, judicial independence, and respect for international laws and norms. It will also emphasize the need for transparent and accountable institutions to combat corruption and enhance regional security.
Japan has been actively engaging with Central Asian countries through its “Central Asia plus Japan” dialogue framework, established in 2004. This initiative aims to promote political dialogue, economic cooperation, and cultural exchange. The upcoming summit will further bolster these ties, with discussions likely to cover trade, investment, infrastructure development, and environmental issues.
The emphasis on the rule of law also aligns with Japan’s broader foreign policy objectives of promoting a free and open international order. As part of its efforts, Japan has been providing development assistance, capacity-building programs, and technical support to Central Asian nations to help strengthen their legal and governance frameworks.