EU High Representative Josep Borrell Discusses EU-Kazakhstan Cooperation Priorities
Stability and prosperity are the common goals for the people of Central Asia and Europe, according to the European Union (EU) High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell. In an interview with Kazinform, Borrell highlighted the importance of cooperation between the EU and Central Asian countries, particularly in areas such as transport connectivity, green energy, trade, investment, security, water, climate, education, science, and people-to-people contacts.
Borrell mentioned that the EU holds regular meetings with the five Central Asian countries at the level of foreign ministers. This year, the meeting was joined by all 27 foreign ministers of the EU member states for the first time. He stated that since the adoption of the EU Strategy on Central Asia in 2019, there has been progress in various areas of cooperation. However, there are still opportunities to further enhance the relationship between the EU and Central Asia.
One of the key topics discussed during the meeting was the transport routes between Central Asia and Europe. Borrell highlighted the EU-financed study on sustainable transport corridors connecting the extended Trans-European Transport Network and the Central Asian countries. He emphasized the importance of developing transport connections based on a regional approach to ensure sustainable economic development in the entire Central Asian region.
Another important area of cooperation between the EU and Kazakhstan is in critical raw materials. Borrell mentioned that Kazakhstan became the first country in Central Asia to sign a memorandum of understanding with the EU on a strategic partnership in raw materials, batteries, and renewable hydrogen. The roadmap for implementing the agreement aims to develop a secure and sustainable supply of raw and refined materials, as well as boost the green and digital transformation in Kazakhstan and the EU.
Access to water resources and managing water scarcity is also a high priority for EU-Central Asia relations. Borrell highlighted the EU’s projects and programs aimed at assisting Central Asian partners in managing water resources. The Team Europe Initiative on Water, Energy, and Climate Change, launched in November 2022, will provide 20 million euros (US$21.1 million) to finance priority programs identified under the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea (IFAS) Basin Program.
Furthermore, tackling the climate emergency is one of the EU’s top foreign policy priorities. Borrell emphasized that this topic is discussed at every meeting between the EU and its Central Asian partners, with a shared understanding of the need to adopt policies for a net-zero emissions economy. The green transition, decarbonization, water management, and investment in renewable energy are central to the discussions with Central Asia.
In conclusion, the EU and Central Asia have a strong desire for stability and prosperity. Through ongoing cooperation and dialogue, they aim to enhance various areas of collaboration such as transport connectivity, green energy, trade, investment, security, water, climate, education, science, and people-to-people contacts. The EU stands ready to support Central Asian countries in their reform efforts and contribute to their sustainable economic development.
