TASHKENT, April 18 (Xinhua) -- Central Asia is emerging as a significant force in the global competition for rare metals, Uzbek Deputy Foreign Minister Muzaffar Madrakhimov said Saturday at the fifth Antalya Diplomacy Forum.

Madrakhimov noted that expanding cooperation in innovation and technology, particularly in the processing of critical minerals, has become a strategic priority for the region. These joint efforts are expected to bolster the standing of Central Asian nations within the evolving global framework of resource security and technological sovereignty, he said.

He added that the combined GDP of Central Asian countries has doubled over the past decade, surging from 250 billion U.S. dollars to more than 500 billion dollars.

The region's deepening ties have enhanced the prominence of the "Central Asia Plus" format, strengthening its role in international dialogue and diplomacy, Madrakhimov said, also underscoring Uzbekistan's commitment to broad and mutually beneficial partnerships with various stakeholders.

The fifth Antalya Diplomacy Forum opened on Friday. ■