Oriented on making people closer

A new format of communication between Central Asian ambassadors and permanent representatives of EU countries to the Political and Security Committee, the key body of the European Union responsible for common foreign and security policy, has been launched in Brussels

On the initiative of the Polish Presidency of the Council of the European Union, the first meeting in a new format was held between the ambassadors of Central Asian countries and permanent representatives of EU member states to the Political and Security Committee (PSC). The event was also attended by the EU Special Representative for Central Asia.

During the meeting, the parties confirmed their common commitment to strengthening political, economic and humanitarian cooperation between the European Union and Central Asia. Particular attention was paid to the implementation of the results of the EU-CA Summit, as well as the implementation of the Joint Roadmap adopted in 2023.

The EU representatives stressed that Central Asia remains a strategically important region, playing a key role in ensuring regional stability, resilience of supply chains and promoting good-neighborliness. It was noted that, against the backdrop of growing global challenges, the dialogue between the EU and Central Asia is of particular importance.

The key topics highlighted were:

• developing transport connectivity and sustainable logistics between Europe and Asia;
• strengthening energy cooperation, including green energy and critical raw materials;
• working together on water management, climate change and digital transformation;
• enhancing regional resilience and security, including coordination on humanitarian issues.

The ambassadors of the five Central Asian countries confirmed their readiness to further deepen their partnership with the EU and expressed interest in promoting joint projects and initiatives. Among the proposals is the expansion of working contacts, including through visits by members of this EU committee to the region, which will strengthen personal ties and better take into account national priorities.

In his speech, Turkmenistan's Ambassador to the EU Sapar Palvanov focused on the country's practical steps in the humanitarian sphere. He informed that Turkmenistan provided its territory for the organized transit of third-country nationals from Iran, including citizens of the European Union. All necessary conditions for safe departure were created, which became a manifestation of regional solidarity and responsibility in the context of the crisis.

In general, the participants confirmed their desire to transform political agreements into specific initiatives aimed at sustainable development, regional stability and strengthening trust between the European Union and the Central Asian countries.

ORIENT

Photo: courtesy of the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Belgium