US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has outlined Washington's push to secure critical industries, diversify supply chains and deepen economic ties with Central Asia. Addressing the C5+1 forum, Rubio said the United States wants to avoid dependence on risky foreign partners or adversaries while expanding access to resources, investment opportunities and trade partnerships. He also highlighted plans to strengthen the Trans-Caspian trade route, develop critical mineral supply chains and expand American technology partnerships across Central Asia. The initiative forms part of the Trump administration's effort to strengthen economic cooperation with the region's five nations.