SAMARKAND, Uzbekistan (CHATNEWSTV) — European Council President António Costa on Thursday hailed the first-ever European Union-Central Asia Summit as a “new chapter” in relations, calling for stronger economic, security, and climate cooperation between the two regions.
“It is time to recognize the profound significance of the ties that bind us together,” Costa said at the plenary session in Samarkand, emphasizing three decades of diplomatic relations between the EU and Central Asian nations.
Costa highlighted the EU’s role as one of Central Asia’s top investors and the second-largest trade partner, vowing to expand collaboration in sectors such as digital technology, transport, and raw materials. He also underscored the importance of climate action, pointing to ongoing EU-backed projects in the region.
“The European Union is committed to expanding cooperation on climate change, water management, and environmental protection,” he said, noting the contributions of Europe’s Climate Banks—the European Investment Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.
On security, Costa commended Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan for their recent border agreement, describing it as “an important accomplishment for the whole region.” He also warned of transnational threats, including terrorism, disinformation, and Russia’s continued war in Ukraine.
“Russia’s war is not a local conflict; it is an assault on the very principles of the rules-based international order,” he said, reaffirming EU support for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.
The summit marks a step toward institutionalizing EU-Central Asia ties, with leaders agreeing to strengthen cooperation across multiple sectors. “Our relations have never been stronger, and now, we must move forward with ambition,” Costa said.
