European Commissioner for International Partnerships Jozef Síkela recently completed a visit to five Central Asian countries to further the Global Gateway investment strategy. This initiative, aiming to mobilise €300 billion worldwide, focuses on transport, critical raw materials, digital connectivity, and sustainable energy in Central Asia. Síkela highlighted the untapped potential in the region and the importance of European connections with Central Asia. Despite challenges such as sanctions and proximity to countries like Iran, Afghanistan, Russia, and China, Central Asian nations share the EU’s commitment to the UN Charter and the rule of law, making them valuable partners in a fragmented world.
Beginning his visit in Turkmenistan, discussions focused on the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor, a vital economic route connecting Europe and Central Asia. Additionally, Turkmenistan joined the Global Methane Pledge while signing agreements in renewable energy. In Kazakhstan, a €200 million framework loan was signed between the European Investment Bank and the Development Bank of Kazakhstan to fund sustainable projects. Conversations also touched on critical raw materials and Europe’s interest in securing essential resources for its green and digital transition through technical support and innovative technologies.
Energy development took precedence in Tajikistan, with a €20 million agreement signed with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development to modernise the country’s energy system and expand renewable energy sources. In Kyrgyzstan, the EBRD provided €42 million for the Resilient Water Resources Programme to improve water management. In Uzbekistan, digital connectivity was a key focus, with agreements signed to expand rural internet access. This initiative, supported by a €34.4 million EU grant and a €25.35 million loan to SES, aims to bring broadband internet to remote areas in four Central Asian countries, opening doors to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
An important aspect of Síkela’s visit to Uzbekistan was preparing for the first EU-Central Asia Summit scheduled for early April. The summit’s agenda will include discussions on interregional cooperation, trade and investment opportunities, as well as global security challenges like Russia’s war in Ukraine and shifting US policies. The visit underscored the significance of strengthening ties between Europe and Central Asia, not only to increase the EU’s presence but also to contribute to the economic development of the region. With a focus on key sectors such as transport, critical raw materials, digital connectivity, and sustainable energy, the Global Gateway initiative aims to leverage the untapped potential in Central Asia for mutual benefit.
