Afghanistan–Central Asia Economic Push: Afghanistan’s acting foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi used a Kabul think-tank forum to argue for deeper research-led cooperation and to back major regional connectivity projects (CASA-1000, TAPI, TAP, Lapis Lazuli corridor and rail links), while also flagging security and climate challenges. EU/UN Coordination on Afghanistan: EU and Central Asian envoys met in Almaty to align on Afghanistan’s impact on regional security and to prioritize transport and transit corridors that could boost trade between Central and South Asia and link to Europe. IsDB Financing for Tajikistan: The IsDB approved $2.8bn in development funding at its annual meetings in Baku, including $93.8m for Tajikistan’s Rushan–Varshez road rehabilitation to improve trade connectivity and resilience. Tajikistan Water Modernization: Tajikistan and the ADB discussed modernizing the Bahri Tojik (Tajik Sea) reservoir, including dam protection, pumping upgrades, irrigation systems and digital monitoring to better manage climate and transboundary water risks. Tajik Tourism Drive: Dushanbe approved a National Tourism Association to unite public and private players, improve services and market Tajikistan abroad as visitor numbers rose to 1.7m in 2025. Digital Economy Signal: Coverage highlights Dushanbe’s push toward a digital economy via an Information Technology Center and expanding electronic payments, despite limited internet penetration.