AnewZ Morning Brief - May 15th, 2025
Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Brief: here are the top news stories for May 15th , covering the latest developments you need to know.
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
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the war in Gaza will not stop until Hamas is destroyed, following the release of US-Israeli soldier Edan Alexander.
Qatar signed a landmark agreement with U.S. aerospace giant Boeing on Wednesday to acquire 160 aircraft for Qatar Airways, a deal valued at $200 billion. The signing took place in Doha during the visit of U.S. President Donald Trump.
U.S. President Donald Trump kicked off his Gulf tour with a high-profile visit to Saudi Arabia, securing a major strategic economic agreement and pledging deep investment ties between the two nations.
EU approves 17th Russia sanctions, blacklisting almost 200 shadow‑fleet ships, 30 evasion firms and 75 defence figures, banning missile chemicals and arming Brussels to strike Kremlin hybrid and operations.
President of Kyrgyzstan Sadyr Japarov participated in a capsule-laying ceremony marking the start of construction for the new Jalal-Abad International Airport in Suzak district, the presidential press service. reported.
Uzbekistan will host the next EU–Central Asia Economic and Investors’ Forums in November, EU Ambassador Toivo Klaar announced during Europe Day celebrations, highlighting growing ties and President Mirziyoyev’s planned visit to Brussels to sign a landmark agreement.
Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister for Legal and International Affairs, Kazem Gharibabadi has been appointed as special representative on Caspian Sea issue.
Azerbaijan could be among several new countries to join the Abraham Accords in the coming months, U.S. President Donald Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff said, adding that Armenia, Syria, and Lebanon may also normalize ties with Israel under the agreement.
Iranian Foreign Ministry's spokesperson welcomed the PKK's declaration of disarmament and dissolution, calling it an important step toward rejecting violence and strengthening security.
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