Director of the Center for Strategic Studies at the Institute of International Relations of Turkmenistan’s Foreign Ministry Shiri Shiriyev has said that Azerbaijan’s accession to the Consultative Meeting Platform of Central Asian Leaders opens a new chapter in regional cooperation.

Speaking at the opening of the international conference “C6: One Region, Shared Future - Enhancing Strategic Dialogue” in Baku, Shiriyev emphasized that the gathering represents more than a diplomatic exchange, The Caspian Post reports via local media.

“Today, we are not simply sharing views - we are shaping a common vision of the future, in which C6 countries can realize their potential as a cohesive and complementary community,” he said.

C6 as a Mechanism, Not Just a Dialogue Platform

Shiriyev said that the strategic significance of the C6 format goes far beyond consultation. He described it as an effective mechanism for developing joint solutions amid global instability, strengthening sustainable economic ties based on mutual benefit, and building trust through humanitarian cooperation and knowledge exchange.

He underlined the vital role of the expert community in this process, noting that analysts, researchers, and think tanks create the intellectual foundation for well-balanced policymaking.

Regional Dynamics and Global Challenges

Shiriyev highlighted several factors that make the conference particularly timely. Rapid regional developments - including the expansion of Trans-Caspian corridors, energy complementarity, and shared environmental challenges - require coordinated action.

At the same time, in a period of geopolitical turbulence, C6 could serve as a model of strategic autonomy, where cooperation is built on mutual respect rather than bloc politics.

He also stressed the need for institutionalization, pointing to the importance of formal structures, expert networks, and coordination mechanisms that will shape the region’s long-term future.

Focus on Practical Outcomes

The conference features three panel discussions addressing pressing issues - from building sustainable cooperation frameworks and creating regional value chains to ensuring security without bloc logic and harmonizing environmental initiatives.

Shiriyev expressed confidence that the discussions in Baku would be constructive and forward-looking, assisting to transform C6 into a dynamic platform for regional integration across the Caspian basin.