Tokyo: Japan will host its first summit with leaders of five Central Asian nations on Friday, the Foreign Ministry in Tokyo announced on Wednesday. The two-day summit, hosted by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, is set to focus on expanding trade and investment, with both sides aiming to discuss promoting autonomous and sustainable development in the region.

According to Anadolu Agency, leaders from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan are expected to attend the summit. They will deliberate on international affairs and work towards strengthening bilateral relations. Key topics on the agenda include the use of artificial intelligence and cooperation in supply chains.

In addition to the main summit, Prime Minister Takaichi will conduct separate bilateral meetings with the Central Asian leaders. The Japanese Economy Ministry is also organizing a 'Central Asia plus Japan' business forum on the sidelines of the summit to further economic ties.

The summit was initially slated to take place in Kazakhstan in August 2024 but was postponed due to a mega earthquake advisory issued in Japan.