«5+1» COOPERATION FORMATS IN THE CENTRAL ASIAN REGION: ANALYSIS OF ECONOMIC INTERACTION WITH JAPAN

The article analyzes Japan’s economic interaction with Central Asia within the framework of the «5+1» format, which is a unique mechanism of multilateral cooperation that has attracted the attention of leading world powers in recent years due to the strategic importance of the region in the context of energy resources and transit routes. The research is based on a comprehensive analysis of investment, trade and economic relations between the countries of Central Asia and Japan. The main purpose was to identify key trends and factors that determine the dynamics of economic interaction and analyze the interrelations of economies. The hypotheses were tested using comparative statistics, dynamic analysis and graphical method, as well as using statistical methods, including calculation of correlation coefficients and multiple regression. Limitations of the study include the lack of data for some countries and periods. The analysis showed a moderate positive correlation between the GDP (Gross domestic product) of the countries of Central Asia and Japan, indicating economic interdependence. Japan’s investment activity is manifested in significant investments in Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, with recent growth in Tajikistan. Trade turnover between the countries fluctuates due to global and regional factors. Despite the positive correlation of economies, Central Asia's influence on Japan remains limited. Japanese investment plays a key role in the region's development, but political instability and domestic problems in the countries reduce their effectiveness. Trade also faces challenges, including customs barriers and infrastructure limitations.