Abstract
In the context of the growing strategic importance of Central Asia against the backdrop of the global transformation of the international relations system, the "5 + 1" formats are becoming an important instrument of foreign economic and foreign policy interaction of the countries of the region with the leading world powers – the USA, China, the EU, Russia and Japan. However, the implementation of initiatives within these formats faces a number of systemic challenges and constraints. The purpose of this study is to identify and comprehensively analyze difficulties slowing down the implementation of joint projects, as well as to find opportunities to improve the effectiveness of international cooperation. The paper examines institutional, political and economic, infrastructural, geopolitical and sociocultural barriers that limit the effectiveness of cooperation. The scientific significance of the study lies in the structured comparative approach to assessing cooperation in the five "CA+1" formats, as well as in identifying institutional deficits and contradictions between the interests of the parties. The results of the study enrich the theoretical base on regional cooperation, sustainable development and international economic integration. The practical significance lies in the development of applied recommendations for strengthening coordination, institutional support and increasing the effectiveness of foreign economic initiatives within the framework of “5+1”.