On March 31, 2025, the city of Khujand became the center of a landmark historical event, marking a new chapter in the history of Central Asia. A major regional summit was held there with the participation of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the President of the Republic of Tajikistan, Emomali Rahmon, and the President of the Kyrgyz Republic, Sadyr Japarov.

The summit’s primary outcome was the signing of two foundational documents: the Treaty on the Junction Point of State Borders of the three countries and the Khujand Declaration of Eternal Friendship. These agreements laid a solid foundation for the further expansion of strategic partnerships and the strengthening of regional stability, good neighborliness, and prosperity – garnering close attention and broad recognition from the international community.

Treaty on the Junction Point of State Borders

A key outcome of the Khujand Summit was the signing of a historic document establishing the junction point of the state borders of Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan. This agreement definitively resolves long-standing border issues that had been a subject of discussion and disagreement for many years.

The treaty clearly defines the internationally recognized point where the borders of the three nations meet – an act that, according to the leaders, will help remove barriers and strengthen good neighborly relations. The official recognition of this point is not merely a technical resolution, but a significant diplomatic milestone that contributes to the consolidation of peace and regional security.

The decision was symbolically reinforced by the unveiling of a special Friendship Monument erected directly at the junction of the three borders. This monument stands as a symbol of openness and unity among the peoples of Central Asia, demonstrating to the world that borders in the region are no longer lines of division, but bridges of integration and mutual understanding.

Khujand Declaration of Eternal Friendship

The second key document, signed by the leaders of Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan – the Khujand Declaration of Eternal Friendship – serves as a diplomatic symbol of the three brotherly nations’ commitment to deepening their strategic partnership and fostering good neighborly relations.

The declaration emphasizes the importance of joint efforts to ensure regional security and stability, while reaffirming shared principles of good neighborliness, trust, and mutually beneficial cooperation. The leaders of the three countries expressed their firm intention to jointly confront any threats and challenges to security, acting as partners and allies.

Special attention in the declaration is given to economic cooperation, including the further expansion of trade and investment ties. The document highlights the countries’ intentions to actively collaborate in transport and energy – mainly through the implementation of major infrastructure initiatives such as the construction of the China – Kyrgyzstan – Uzbekistan railway and the strengthening of the region’s energy infrastructure.

The cultural and humanitarian dimension also holds a central place in the Khujand Declaration. The leaders agreed to regularly organize joint cultural events, youth forums, and sports competitions – initiatives aimed at strengthening friendship and mutual understanding among the peoples of the three nations, particularly among the younger generation.

The presidents emphasized that the Khujand Declaration marks a new chapter in the history of their peoples and stands as a testament to eternal friendship and unshakable unity – a foundation for the prosperity of future generations across Central Asia.

International Response

The signing of the historic documents at the Khujand Summit received widespread international attention. Major international organizations and influential global powers highly praised the significance of these agreements, unanimously expressing confidence that they will bring stability and prosperity and further strengthen integration processes in Central Asia.

The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) expressed deep satisfaction with the signing of the Treaty on the Junction Point of Borders and the Khujand Declaration. OIC Secretary General Hissein Brahim Taha congratulated the people of the three countries on this achievement, describing it as a historic step toward reinforcing the strategic partnership and ensuring peace and security in the region.

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) also welcomed the agreements reached. GCC Secretary General Jasem Mohamed AlBudaiwi emphasized that the treaty marks a turning point in the final resolution of border disputes and opens broad opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation and sustainable regional development.

Saudi Arabia highlighted the exceptional relevance of the signed documents, describing them as a significant contribution to ensuring stability and development in Central Asia. In a statement issued by the Kingdom’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it was noted: “The signing of the Khujand Declaration is a major step toward regional cooperation and peace”.

The agreements also received strong support from the United Arab Emirates. Minister Ahmed bin Ali Al Sayegh emphasized that these accords will contribute to peace and prosperity in Central Asia, serving as a model of successful diplomatic engagement.

Jordan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates described the agreements as a historic breakthrough that will enhance the region’s stability and security. Sufyan Qudah, a representative of the Jordanian foreign ministry, stressed the importance of continuing such peaceful initiatives.

The outcomes were also highly praised in Kuwait and Qatar. The foreign ministries of both countries expressed confidence that the signing of the Khujand Declaration and the Treaty on the Junction Point of State Borders will help strengthen mutual trust and regional stability, highlighting the diplomatic maturity and wisdom of the Central Asian leaders.

Particular attention has been drawn to the positions of two major global powers – Russia and the United States. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation expressed full support for the signed documents, emphasizing their significance for the development of partnership and the strengthening of stability in Central Asia. The official Russian statement noted that the agreements would contribute to reinforcing allied ties and regional security.

The United States also gave high praise to the agreements, underscoring their importance for regional integration and prosperity. According to a statement by the U.S. Department of State, these steps are expected to pave the way for closer interaction among the peoples of the region and the creation of new economic opportunities.

Significance of the Agreements for the Region

Impact on Security and Stability in Central Asia

The signing of the Treaty on the Junction Point of State Borders and the Khujand Declaration holds strategic importance for ensuring security and stability in Central Asia. The resolution of long-standing border issues helps reduce tensions and prevent potential conflicts – a vital step, especially for a region historically marked by complex inter-state relations.

The settlement of border matters lays a solid foundation for deeper security cooperation. It creates favorable conditions for enhanced collaboration among the law enforcement and special services of the three countries in addressing shared challenges such as terrorism, extremism, drug trafficking, and other transnational threats.

Prospects for Economic and Political Cooperation Among the Countries

The economic prospects of the agreements signed in Khujand are no less significant than their contribution to regional security. These agreements open new opportunities for the implementation of large-scale infrastructure projects, including the construction of the China – Kyrgyzstan – Uzbekistan railway, which has the potential to significantly enhance the region’s transit capacity and attract substantial international investment.

A crucial role is played by creating favorable conditions for expanding trade and investment. As a result of the recent negotiations, the leaders agreed to improve the efficiency of existing joint investment funds and increase the frequency of direct flights and bus routes between border cities – measures that will significantly boost cross-border trade and regional economic cooperation.

The political significance of these agreements lies in the emergence of a new model of relations among the Central Asian states. Regular consultations at the level of foreign ministries and top leadership contribute to the coordination of the three countries’ positions on key international issues, enhance their political agency on the global stage, and strengthen mutual trust and respect.

Abduaziz Khidirov, UzA