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
Despite losing his bloc's majority in Israel's 120-seat Knesset in a hotly contested election, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has manage...
Turkmenistan Airlines has increased flights to key international destinations, including Seoul, Milan, Kazan and Istanbul, as the Central Asian cou...
Here's your AnewZ Daily Brief for 28 October 2026, exploring five election stories shaping world politics, from leadership struggles in Israel ...
Russia and Ukraine have begun a regional ceasefire to allow the start of a humanitarian effort in the Russian-occupied town of Oleshky, both sides said on Tuesday, but they continue strikes elsewhere, including the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv.
Despite losing his bloc's majority in Israel's 120-seat Knesset in a hotly contested election, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has managed to remain in the lead after 70 per cent of votes were tallied on Wednesday. Figures are subject to change as counting continues.
Russian strikes hit several parts of Ukraine overnight, injuring at least six people and targeting energy and port infrastructure, as President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said U.S. warnings about imminent Russian ballistic missile attacks had resumed.
Nearly two years after the 20 October 2024 parliamentary elections, Iraq’s Kurdistan Region remains without a cabinet. The Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) won 39 of 100 seats and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) 23, leaving neither able to govern alone.
The Pentagon is prepared to launch potentially major military operations against Iran within 96 hours of receiving an order from U.S. President Donald Trump, with sufficient forces already deployed in the Middle East, according to a CNN report.
Uzbekistan has launched Apple Pay and Google Pay, allowing customers at several local banks to make contactless payments using their smartphones and other compatible devices.
Iran says a “new and positive atmosphere” has emerged following rare security talks in Tehran with senior officials from Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye, as regional tensions continue to escalate.
The first day of the seventh World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue wrapped up in Baku on Tuesday (27 October), with President Ilham Aliyev highlighting Azerbaijan’s role in promoting peace and multiculturalism as global leaders explored the impact of AI and cultural cooperation.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has dismissed European criticism of a maritime agreement between Türkiye and Libya, arguing that objections to the deal have no legal basis.
Kyrgyzstan doubled its petrol and diesel production in the first nine months of 2026, as disruptions at Russian oil refineries strained fuel supplies across Central Asia, highlighting the region’s reliance on Russian energy.
You can download the AnewZ application from Play Store and the App Store.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment