The first-ever Central Asia-European Union summit takes place in Samarkand, marking a milestone in regional cooperation. Officials will discuss trade, investment, energy, and security, aiming to strengthen economic ties and enhance political dialogue between the two regions, Kazinform reports.
The summit brings together the leaders of all five Central Asian nations alongside EU officials, including the Presidents of the European Council and the European Commission. Discussions will center on strengthening connectivity, trade, and environmental cooperation while addressing regional security challenges.
EU Special Representative Eduards Stiprais emphasized the significance of the summit, stating, "We see this as a partnership in areas of common interest to both regions because we see Central Asia as an important partner in economic development and in political dialogue." He also noted Central Asia's geographic importance, saying, "It is at the very heart of Eurasia, providing both East-West and North-South connectivity."
The EU has committed €550 million through the Global Gateway program to enhance connectivity and facilitate smoother trade routes. Stiprais highlighted the EU’s investment role, explaining, "The EU is overall the second most important trading partner of Central Asia. If I am not mistaken, about 40% of all foreign direct investment in the region comes from Europe."
Key economic sectors of interest include critical raw materials, renewable energy, and technology. Speaking on the importance of critical raw materials, Stiprais remarked, "In the 21st century, what we call critical raw materials are the new critical area. We need them to make the green transition."
The EU also supports the certification of Kazakhstani products, such as honey and grain, for export to European markets. "Any producer can access the European market if they comply with, sometimes very strict, health and safety regulations," Stiprais explained, adding that the EU provides technical assistance to ensure compliance with these standards.
Regarding energy cooperation, nuclear power remains a debated topic within the EU, with member states holding differing positions. "We are not against nuclear energy. Many of our countries use it successfully and even build new reactors," Stiprais noted. However, he stressed that "nuclear safety, the safe handling of nuclear fuel, and the technological processes used are of paramount importance."
Looking ahead, EU-Central Asia cooperation is expected to deepen, with a strong focus on trade, investment, and regional integration. Stiprais expressed optimism, stating, "I see a very bright future. Our cooperation is not something artificial... We have a huge mutual interest in working together." Drawing from its own experience, the EU believes that closer economic ties will bring long-term benefits, positioning Central Asia as a key partner in global economic and political affairs
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Leaders from Central Asia and the European Union will meet in Samarkand on April 4 for the first-ever EU-Central Asia Summit, aimed at deepening ties. Talks will focus on trade, investment, green energy, and security — marking a new era of cooperation.
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Leaders from Central Asia and the European Union will meet in Samarkand on April 4 for the first-ever EU-Central Asia Summit, aimed at deepening ties. Talks will focus on trade, investment, green energy, and security — marking a new era of cooperation.
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The first-ever summit between the European Union (EU) and the five Central Asian nations—Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan - began today in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.
During a high-level meeting, officials from Kyrgyzstan and Russia emphasized the growing economic partnership between the two nations, highlighting a 14.5% increase in mutual trade and reaffirming their commitment to further expansion.
U.S. President Donald Trump’s inner circle is advising him against speaking with Russian President Vladimir Putin unless Russia commits to a full ceasefire in Ukraine, NBC News reported on Thursday, citing administration officials.
Kirill Dmitriev, Russian President Vladimir Putin’s investment envoy, is visiting Washington this week for talks with members of the Trump administration, sparking fresh speculation over behind-the-scenes diplomacy between Moscow and Washington.
A Russian drone strike hit residential buildings in Kharkiv late on Thursday, killing at least two people and injuring 32 others, Ukrainian officials said, as nightly attacks on the country's cities continue to mount.
In Sydney’s Bennelong, where Chinese Australians make up a large share of the electorate, the fight for votes is playing out on unexpected turf: Xiaohongshu.
Leaders from Central Asia and the European Union will meet in Samarkand on April 4 for the first-ever EU-Central Asia Summit, aimed at deepening ties. Talks will focus on trade, investment, green energy, and security — marking a new era of cooperation.
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