The first-ever meeting of the foreign ministers of the United Kingdom and the five Central Asian countries in the C5+1 format (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and the United Kingdom) is taking place in London today, February 26, 2026. The event is being chaired by UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper at Lancaster House.
Key Topics and Agreements
Critical minerals and raw materials were the central theme of the meeting. The UK announced the conclusion of a roadmap on critical minerals with Kazakhstan (signed by Kazakh Foreign Minister Yermek Kosherbayev and the British side). This is part of the West’s strategy to diversify raw material supplies and reduce dependence on China.
Agreements were also signed with other countries in the region on carbon capture and cooperation in higher education.
Financial markets, infrastructure, transport, digital services, energy security, and regional stability were discussed.
Separate meetings were held with representatives of British business, financial institutions, and parliament (including Speaker of the House of Commons Lindsay Hoyle).
Britain’s interest in Central Asia has sharply increased following Brexit and amid global competition for resources and transport corridors. The region is increasingly being referred to as “Silk Road 2.0″—an alternative to China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
This event is part of a broader British strategy to strengthen its influence in Eurasia, attract investment, and create new economic ties. The meeting is expected to result in a joint statement and outline further steps to deepen the partnership.