Excitement is building in Samarkand as it gears up to host the inaugural Central Asia-European Union Summit. This landmark event promises to pave the way for significant negotiations and collaboration, bringing together leaders and representatives from both regions. With a rich cultural backdrop and a vibrant atmosphere, Samarkand is poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of partnerships and cooperation between Central Asia and the European Union.
In recent weeks, Uzbekistan has experienced notable advancements in its foreign policy, signaling a proactive approach to international collaboration. A highlighted event was the fruitful engagement between Uzbekistan’s head of state and Kaja Kallas, the High-level Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. Additionally, a delegation led by Josef Sikela, the European Union Commissioner for International Cooperation, participated in discussions to foster deeper ties. A significant milestone on the horizon is the inaugural Central Asia-European Union summit, set to unfold in the historic city of Samarkand on April 3-4.
During a pivotal meeting on March 27 with Kallas, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev meticulously explored the preparations for this groundbreaking summit, which has captured global attention due to its potential to reshape regional dynamics. The leaders engaged in a rich exchange of ideas focused on bolstering practical cooperation between their regions and planning future collaborative events that could further strengthen these ties.
The significance of fostering mutually beneficial cooperation between the two regions in trade and logistics was emphasized during the meeting. This includes harnessing the potential of the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor, advancing digitalization, promoting green energy, addressing ecological concerns, modernizing infrastructure, and other priority areas. The introduction of effective mechanisms for implementing initiatives and projects in these fields was also highlighted. Participants exchanged views on enhancing Uzbekistan’s relations with European Union organizations, discussing adopting a new agreement for enhanced partnership and cooperation and Uzbekistan’s accession to the World Trade Organization. Current international and regional policy issues were also addressed.
Additionally, on March 18, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev met with a delegation led by Josef Sikela, the European Union Commissioner for International Cooperation. This meeting discussed critical matters regarding further developing multifaceted relations between Uzbekistan and the European Union. Moreover, plans for organizing the inaugural “Central Asia – EU” summit and the Climate Forum in Samarkand were considered. In recent years, bilateral cooperation with the European Union has accelerated across political, trade, economic, investment, and cultural-humanitarian spheres, presenting extensive opportunities for the continued expansion of these ties. A new Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between Uzbekistan and the European Union is anticipated to be signed soon. Both parties have expressed a keen interest in promoting joint projects and programs across transport and logistics, energy, digitalization, agriculture, water management, and other key areas.
Kallas conveyed warm greetings and best wishes on behalf of key EU figures, including António Costa, the President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission. The discussions underscored the necessity of cultivating mutually beneficial cooperation across various sectors, including trade and logistics, and harnessing the untapped potential of the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor. Other critical themes included digitalization efforts, green energy initiatives, environmental programs, infrastructure modernization, and the establishment of effective mechanisms for executing joint projects.
Furthermore, there was a focus on deepening Uzbekistan’s engagement with EU organizations, including adopting a new agreement to enhance partnership and cooperation. The talks also touched on Uzbekistan’s anticipated accession to the World Trade Organization, alongside key international and regional policy matters.
Earlier in the month, on March 18, Mirziyoyev held a significant meeting with Josef Sikela’s delegation. During this meeting, they addressed pressing issues related to advancing multifaceted relations between Uzbekistan and the European Union. The agenda revolved around organizing the forthcoming Central Asia-EU summit and the Climate Forum, which will take place in Samarkand.
The trajectory of bilateral cooperation with the European Union has accelerated remarkably in recent years, encompassing various dimensions such as politics, trade, economics, investment, and cultural-humanitarian exchanges. Both partners recognize the prosperous opportunities available for further growth and collaboration.
In March, a significant agreement was finalized in Tashkent concerning two strategic projects backed by the European Union. The delegation underscored that the “Connecting Central Asia” (C4CA) initiative focuses on enhancing digital infrastructure and fostering regional integration, which will, in turn, encourage cooperation and economic exchanges among Central Asian nations.
According to Sikela, the collaboration between the European Union and Uzbekistan seeks to improve internet connectivity across Central Asia, aspiring to provide fast and secure internet access. This initiative aims to empower businesses, generate new employment opportunities, and elevate living conditions for local communities by integrating advanced European technologies and Uzbekistan’s expertise.
Overall, the partnership between Uzbekistan and the European Union is entering a transformative phase, offering substantial opportunities for growth and mutual benefit as both sides work together to create a more interconnected future.
