EU and Central Asia Strengthen Ties at Samarkand Summit for Strategic Partnership
Leaders from Central Asia and the European Union are set to gather in Samarkand on April 4 for a historic summit, where the launch of a strategic partnership is expected to take place. The agenda for the summit covers topics such as trade, investment, critical raw materials, digital connectivity, and people-to-people ties. This summit marks a new chapter in EU-Central Asia relations, as both sides aim to strengthen their cooperation and collaboration.
According to experts closely following EU-Central Asia relations, the summit presents an opportunity for Central Asian countries to move from rhetoric to action, institutionalize cooperation, and launch new initiatives that promote shared growth, stability, and interconnectivity. Expectations are high for concrete outcomes in areas like trade, investment, infrastructure, green energy, and technological development.
One of the key areas of focus at the summit is the institutionalization of political dialogue, with Central Asian states seeking regular engagements at various levels to ensure continuity and coherence in EU-Central Asia relations. A meaningful partnership, according to experts, should be grounded in mutual respect, shared strategic interests, and a commitment to producing tangible benefits for the people of both regions.
Connectivity is a shared priority for the EU and Central Asia, with notable progress being made in promoting initiatives like the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route. However, to fully realize the benefits of these initiatives, reliable infrastructure support is essential. Experts suggest that the EU should adopt a balanced strategy that supports both hard and soft infrastructure to enhance connectivity in the region.
Energy and critical raw materials are also significant topics on the agenda, as the region looks to transition to clean and sustainable energy sources. The EU’s growing investment presence in Central Asia’s clean energy sector aligns with the region’s ambitions to achieve carbon neutrality. Collaboration in this area could benefit both regions and contribute positively to the global energy transition.
While some view the EU’s engagement in Central Asia as a way to counter Russian and Chinese influence in the region, experts believe that there is more to the dynamic. Central Asia offers key resources to Europe, providing an alternative to traditional suppliers like Russia. Additionally, the EU’s value-based diplomacy efforts to promote good governance and human rights in the region face challenges but remain important for progress.
As leaders meet in Samarkand, the expectations are high for a fruitful summit that establishes a strong partnership between the EU and Central Asia. By addressing the complexities and being realistic about their goals, this summit has the potential to mark a significant step forward in the relationship between the two regions.
