US State Secretary Rubio meets counterparts from five Central Asian nations in Uzbekistan

The United States is looking to strengthen its influence in Central Asia as Secretary of State Marco Rubio visits Uzbekistan. The top US diplomat has held talks with his counterparts from five Central Asian nations. He says the region is emerging as an important destination for investment and exports, adding that Washington is seeking closer economic ties, while supporting the sovereignty and independence of the nations. Mr Rubio's trip coincided with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, who is in Tajikistan. Central Asia is rich in critical minerals used in high-tech industries, making the region strategically important to the US, China and Russia. James Gooderson reports from Washington DC and Anna Conkling reports from Kyiv.