Uzbekistan's President Proposes Signing EU-Central Asian Partnership and Cooperation Agreement

​At the inaugural Central Asia–European Union summit in Samarqand, Uzbekistan's President Shavkat Mirziyoyev proposed a comprehensive partnership and cooperation agreement between the two regions, Orda reports, citing Gazeta.uz.

He emphasized the need for coordinated efforts to address shared challenges and highlighted the transformation in Central Asian relations, noting increased trust and collaboration among neighboring countries. Mirziyoyev also expressed interest in working with the EU on critical raw materials but acknowledged the difficulties posed by the lack of efficient transport corridors. ​

The Uzbek President also emphasized regional security challenges, noting the underestimation of threats stemming from Afghanistan's territory and advocating constructive engagement with the nation through economic initiatives.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, in turn, announced a €12 billion Global Gateway Investment Package aimed at enhancing cooperation in transport, critical raw materials, clean energy, and digital connectivity.

She underscored the EU's commitment to being a reliable partner for Central Asia, aiming to strengthen economic ties and support the region's development. ​

The summit marked a significant step in EU-Central Asia relations, with both sides expressing a commitment to deepening their partnership through concrete projects and strategic cooperation.