Expert view on outcomes of the C6 summit in Avaza

In early October, the eighth Consultative Meeting of the heads of state of Central Asia and Azerbaijan took place in the «Avaza» National tourist zone on the Turkmen coast of the Caspian Sea. Held in the year marking the 35th anniversary of the states' independence, the summit demonstrated the high relevance and independent nature of this political dialogue format.

During the meetings, the heads of state discussed the development of political, trade and economic, transport, energy and humanitarian ties. Regional security, digitalization, environmental issues and the expansion of investment cooperation received particular attention. In his address, Turkmenistan's President Serdar Berdimuhamedov called for building the capacity of the six-party partnership, ensuring lasting peace and security in the region, and accelerating technological development and the implementation of artificial intelligence. The heads of state signed a Joint Statement.

According to regional experts, the C6 format is evolving from a consultative platform into a full-fledged economic and geostrategic alliance. Analysts emphasise that the six states together have a combined GDP of over $620 billion and a population of approximately 85 million people. Development of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route via Turkmen and Azerbaijani ports is described as a primary objective. The next meeting will take place in 2027 in Azerbaijan.