EU-Central Asia Security Cooperation Deepens

Published on 4.6.25

  The European Union has been emphasizing the importance of cooperation on security threats that transcend national borders, particularly in light of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. This sentiment was echoed by EU leaders at a recent summit with Central Asian countries in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. The meeting marked a significant opportunity for the region, as it brought together high-level officials from Central Asia and the European Union to discuss pressing issues such as security. The EU is now seeking greater cooperation from Central Asian countries to address concerns about their role in circumventing international sanctions imposed on Russia. Uzbekistan's President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has expressed support for the negotiation process on Ukraine and welcomed the idea of holding similar summits every two years to secure investments in the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor. The meeting also highlighted the growing economic ties between Central Asia and the EU, with trade turnover quadrupled to €54 billion over seven years. The summit was attended by high-level officials from both sides, including EU leaders such as Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa. However, challenges remain in terms of addressing security threats and ensuring greater cooperation from all parties involved.

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