Few Central Asia observers were surprised by the recent and unanimous decision to include Azerbaijan as a full-fledged member in the Consultative Format of Central Asian nations, given its longstanding role in fostering regional connectivity and energy cooperation. The forum—originally composed of Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, and Tajikistan—is a platform for cooperation among Central Asian states. Baku’s accession to the format signals both Central Asia and Azerbaijan want to be seen as part of a single region.
Building on that expansion, the United States should now add Azerbaijan to the C5+1 format and consider inviting Israel to join the framework, creating a C6+2. Incorporating Israel would provide Washington with the expertise of a trusted partner that maintains diplomatic, economic, and security relationships across the region. Coordinated engagement would enhance the ability of the United States and Israel to shape outcomes and expand their influence—particularly as they compete with entrenched powers such as Russia and China that remain broadly opposed to U.S. involvement in the region.
An Israeli role will also help secure U.S. strategic interests. Namely, by supporting the Trans-Caspian International Trade Route or Middle Corridor, a trade route through Central Asia and Azerbaijan to Europe bypassing both Russia and Iran as well as helping develop critical mineral processing abilities. Jerusalem could also support the region in strategic initiatives such as water management and cybersecurity.
Read the full article on the N7 Foundation.
Joseph Epstein is the Director of the Turan Research Center and a Senior Fellow at the Yorktown Institute.