Central Asia and EU Sign Strategic Partnership Declaration

At their joint summit, Central Asian and EU leaders adopted a declaration elevating their relations to a strategic partnership, Orda reports, citing the EU press service.

The agreement focuses on trade, transport, energy, digital connectivity, and water resource management.

The parties committed to peace, security, and democracy, respecting international law and UN principles, including territorial integrity.

They emphasized support for a stable, inclusive Afghanistan that upholds human rights, expressing concern over the humanitarian situation and urging full access to education and public life for women and girls.

The EU welcomed increased regional cooperation in Central Asia and expressed support for further integration efforts. Leaders highlighted the importance of critical raw materials and green and digital transitions.

The sides pledged to boost coordination on the Trans-Caspian corridor and key infrastructure, intensify climate action, and adopt innovations in water-energy cooperation, especially around the Aral Sea.

They reaffirmed shared values: the rule of law, human rights, media freedom, civil society participation, and gender and labor rights. The EU reiterated its readiness to support these goals, including through the Civil Society Forum.