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US is coming to Central Asia with deals to stay, Rubio tells Euronews
Euronews.com • • world
Key Points:
- US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that US companies are preparing to sign new agreements in Uzbekistan, aiming to expand American economic influence in Central Asia and diversify critical mineral supplies.
- Nearly 300 American businesses are participating in discussions in Samarkand, with potential deals worth billions, marking what Rubio described as the beginning of broader US engagement in the region.
- Rubio emphasized the importance of diversifying critical mineral supply chains globally and highlighted Uzbekistan's potential for developing mineral resources responsibly to benefit its economy.
- During his visit, Rubio met with Uzbek and regional leaders and attended the Uzbekistan–US Business and Investment Council events, building on commitments made at the 2025 C5+1 summit.
- Addressing tensions over Ukraine, Rubio denied any pause in US intelligence sharing with Kyiv and urged focus on ending Russia's war in Ukraine, while acknowledging ongoing challenges in diplomatic efforts.
