The policy brief, co-authored by Mushtariy Usmonova and Fazliddin Djamalov, provides a comprehensive analysis of the upcoming EU-Central Asia Summit. The authors highlight the summit as a crucial event in strengthening ties between the European Union and the Central Asian states, building on past engagements such as the 2023 meeting in Cholpon-Ata. The piece underscores the significance of the EU’s Global Gateway strategy in fostering economic and infrastructural cooperation while positioning the EU as a key partner for the region amid global challenges.
The historical context of EU-Central Asia relations is examined, tracing back to the Silk Road era and evolving through post-Soviet engagements such as the TACIS programme and the EU Strategy for Central Asia. The article outlines the strategic importance of trade and investment, citing that EU-Central Asia trade is expected to surpass €54 billion by the end of 2024, with the EU being a major investor in sectors such as energy, infrastructure, and technology. The authors highlight key recent agreements, including a €3 million deal on critical raw materials and a €20 million investment grant to Tajikistan’s power grid modernisation, reflecting Europe’s commitment to economic sustainability in the region.
A major focus is placed on infrastructure and connectivity, particularly the EU’s support for the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR), where €10 billion has been pledged to enhance regional transit links. The article also discusses the geopolitical complexities of EU engagement, including the challenges posed by sanctions on Russia and strategic competition with China. Additionally, the role of cultural and educational exchanges, such as the Erasmus+ programme and EU-funded language centres, is emphasised as a means to foster long-term cooperation.
The publication underscores the summit as a pivotal moment for advancing EU-Central Asia relations, both in economic and socio-cultural dimensions. The agreements and initiatives expected from the meeting are portrayed as key steps toward ensuring regional stability and deeper integration with the EU. By addressing economic development, infrastructure, and cultural cooperation, the article argues that the summit will elevate the partnership to a new level of enhanced and targeted collaboration.
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