President Tokayev’s Vision for Central Asia-EU Cooperation Unveiled at Samarkand Summit
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev Shares Vision for Central Asia-EU Cooperation at Summit
At the recent Central Asia-EU Summit in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev outlined a promising agenda for collaboration between Central Asia and the European Union. The summit, which took place on April 4th, saw Tokayev emphasize key areas of cooperation that could benefit both regions.
Expanding trade was a focal point of President Tokayev’s address, as he expressed Kazakhstan’s readiness to increase exports to the EU in various product categories totaling over $2 billion. This move is seen as a way to diversify Kazakhstan’s trade portfolio and strengthen its position as a reliable trade partner. Additionally, Tokayev encouraged European companies to utilize the Astana International Financial Centre for financing trade projects.
Energy security was another important topic discussed, with Kazakhstan being a significant supplier of hydrocarbons to Europe. Currently, Kazakhstan accounts for 13% of the EU’s oil imports, primarily through the Caspian Pipeline Consortium. President Tokayev acknowledged the EU’s support in maintaining this supply route while also exploring alternative transportation options for raw materials. Kazakhstan is also focusing on renewable energy projects, including wind, solar, and green hydrogen initiatives in partnership with European companies.
The discussion also touched on rare earth elements, with Kazakhstan producing essential materials needed by the EU economy. President Tokayev proposed the establishment of a Regional Research Center for Rare Earth Metals in Astana to provide valuable information to enterprises and investors.
Transit and decarbonization were highlighted as key areas for future cooperation, with Kazakhstan investing in infrastructure projects like the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route to enhance transit connectivity between East and West. President Tokayev stressed Kazakhstan’s commitment to decarbonization efforts and its role in producing clean energy sources.
In the realm of digital technologies and artificial intelligence (AI), Kazakhstan is making advancements through initiatives like the Alem.AI innovation hub and the launch of an International Advisory Council on AI. President Tokayev suggested establishing an EU-Central Asia Innovation Campus to further promote technological innovation.
Education and science cooperation with the EU were also discussed, with President Tokayev praising existing collaborations and proposing the creation of an Erasmus+ for Central Asia program to focus on priority fields like AI and biotechnology. Lastly, global security was a significant topic, with Kazakhstan advocating for peaceful conflict resolution and supporting UN efforts for sustainable development goals in the region.
Overall, President Tokayev’s vision for Central Asia-EU cooperation presents a comprehensive agenda that addresses key economic, energy, technological, and security challenges facing both regions. By working together, Central Asia and the EU can achieve mutual benefits and contribute to sustainable development and global stability.
