The five Central Asian countries – Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan – are currently undergoing a strategic shift towards Europe after years of reform and European assistance. The European Union is looking for dependable partners in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape, and the first-ever high-level meeting between the EU and the Central Asian five is set to take place in the Uzbek city of Samarkand. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan, the host of the summit, has described it as a “historic chance” for the region, highlighting the significant growth in trade turnover between Central Asian countries and the EU, which now totals €54 billion. Additionally, there are over 1,000 European companies operating in Uzbekistan with a joint investment project portfolio of €30 billion.
Deputy Prime Minister of Kyrgyzstan Edil Baisalov emphasized the historical significance of the summit, noting that in the 34 years of independence, this event marks a new step for Central Asia. With the global geopolitical landscape experiencing significant shifts, the region is in need of reliable partners, and the cooperation between the EU and Central Asian countries presents an opportunity for mutual benefit. One major area of collaboration is the initiative to create a Green Strategic Corridor through the Caspian and Black Seas to Europe. The successful implementation of this project will pave the way for mutually advantageous energy connectivity between the two regions.
The European Council President Antonio Costa, in an interview with Euronews, highlighted the importance of the EU’s engagement with Central Asian countries and the opportunities for deeper cooperation. The EU is seeking to strengthen its ties with Central Asia, recognizing the region’s strategic importance and economic potential. The summit provides a platform for discussing a wide range of issues, including trade, investment, energy cooperation, and security. It reflects the mutual interest of both parties in fostering closer relations and working together to address common challenges.
The Central Asian countries view the EU as a valuable partner for promoting economic growth, enhancing regional stability, and addressing shared challenges such as climate change, security threats, and sustainable development. The EU, on the other hand, sees Central Asia as a key partner in advancing its interests in areas such as energy security, connectivity, and addressing global challenges. The meeting in Samarkand is an opportunity to strengthen political dialogue, enhance economic cooperation, and explore new avenues for collaboration in various sectors.
In conclusion, the summit between the EU and the Central Asian five represents a significant milestone in the region’s strategic shift towards Europe. Both parties recognize the importance of closer cooperation and are eager to explore opportunities for mutual benefit. The meeting in Samarkand provides a platform for discussing key issues, fostering dialogue, and strengthening ties between the EU and Central Asian countries. As the global geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, the EU and Central Asia are seeking to build a more robust partnership that can address common challenges and promote prosperity and stability in the region. This historic event marks a new chapter in the relationship between the two regions and highlights the potential for enhanced collaboration in the future.
