Dushanbe hosted the 17th Ministerial Meeting in the European Union – Central Asia format

Yesterday, Dushanbe hosted the 17th Ministerial Meeting in the European Union – Central Asia format, reports “Dunyo” IA correspondent.

According to Uzbekistan MFA, the Foreign Ministers of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy discussed current issues of relations between the European Union and Central Asian countries, common security challenges, prospects for enhancing cooperation in trade, investment, ecology, as well as deepening interregional connectivity.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulaziz Kamilov noted the importance of taking decisive steps to form an innovative model of cooperation between Central Asia and the EU, identifying new growth points for the long term.

It was stated that there are opportunities to activate intra-regional and interregional trade-economic ties through the harmonization of tariffs, simplification of customs procedures, creation of equal conditions for all business entities, effective use of digital technologies, implementation of transport-communication projects.

The urgent need for implementing prompt and coordinated measures to prevent a humanitarian catastrophe in Afghanistan, involving the country in regional economic processes, establishing a constructive dialogue with the Afghan side, which will ultimately contribute to strengthening regional and international security was stressed.

Participants were also informed about the measures taken by Uzbekistan to implement the principles of a green economy, preserve ecology and biodiversity, and use natural resources with care. The Uzbek side expressed readiness to develop cooperation with the EU in this direction, including within the framework of the UN Multi-Partner Human Security Trust Fund for the Aral Sea Region.

A joint communique was adopted following the meeting.

“Dunyo” IA