Following its relaunch in a nomadic format inspired by the Silk Road, the 2025 Forum will take place in Tashkent, under the theme: “Forging Central Asia’s Role in Global Critical Minerals Security.” The event will feature delegates from the five Central Asian nations - Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan—alongside strategic partners from the EU, UK, US, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East.
As global demand for critical minerals intensifies, the Forum aims to position Central Asia as a key player in secure, responsible supply chains - facilitating dialogue, investment, and regional collaboration.
Session 4
16:00 – 17:30 / 24 June 2025 Grand Ballroom
Creating Resilient Metals & Minerals Value Chains – Emerging Opportunities
As global supply chains for critical minerals continue to shift, end-users — from EV manufacturers to energy storage companies — are driving new expectations around sourcing, ESG standards, and supply stability. Central Asia is well-positioned to respond but must go beyond resource ownership to become a reliable, investment-ready partner to the world’s most demanding buyers. This session will explore what offtakers and global manufacturers are looking for, and how the region can align its project development, certification practices, and midstream strategies to meet evolving market needs. Discussions will also touch on emerging buyer-supplier models, long-term agreements, and the role of international partnerships in anchoring Central Asia into clean energy supply chains.
Moderator: David Pearce
Session 5
09:00 – 11:00 / 25 June 2025 Grand Ballroom
Development of Mineral and Raw Material Resources in Central Asian Countries – Untapped Opportunities
During this session, participants will explore the main prospects and challenges in developing mineral and raw-material resources in Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan. Industry experts will present the latest geological exploration projects, innovative extraction and processing technologies, and strategies to enhance both environmental sustainability and economic efficiency. Attention will be paid to regional cooperation, financing of infrastructure initiatives, and the creation of local added value chains. The session aims to formulate actionable recommendations for government bodies, investors, and the scientific community, in line with the global shift toward a “green” industrial paradigm.
SRK Speaker: 09:00 Beneath the Silk and Stone: Central Asia’s Untapped Riches | David Pearce
