Central Asian leaders are arriving in Washington for a high-profile summit with former President Donald Trump, where critical minerals will take center stage in discussions. The meeting is part of broader efforts to secure stable supply chains for essential resources such as lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements, which are vital for technologies ranging from electric vehicles to renewable energy systems. The focus on critical minerals reflects the strategic importance of these resources in shaping global economic and technological landscapes.
While the summit aims to strengthen economic ties and cooperation among Central Asian nations and the United States, the absence of Afghanistan from the main agenda has sparked questions about its potential involvement in the discussions. Afghanistan’s recent political and economic developments, including its energy sector and mineral resources, could play a significant role in the region’s future, yet the lack of direct mention in the summit’s focus areas suggests that its inclusion may be secondary or uncertain at this stage. The discussions are expected to address infrastructure development, trade agreements, and investment opportunities to bolster regional economic growth and stability.