United States commits $5 million for Central Asian cybersecurity

The United States has committed $5 million in foreign assistance to bolster cybersecurity and the digital sector across Central Asia. Announced by Mark Cameron, Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, the funding will be administered through the U.S.-based nonprofit CRDF Global.

The initiative aims to strengthen cyber defenses within the five Central Asian states, focusing on protecting critical infrastructure, enhancing financial sector security, improving cyber hygiene, and developing national cybersecurity policies. Additionally, the assistance includes grant funding opportunities for regional startups, particularly those involved in artificial intelligence projects.

The announcement took place during the C5+1 ‘Super Intelligence: Digital Innovation for Economic Growth’ conference held in Astana. The C5+1 platform, which includes the United States and the five Central Asian nations, has expanded its focus from traditional regional security to include investment, trade, and digital development.