Central Asia–EU Forum Adopts Joint Statement

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The first interparliamentary forum “Central Asia–European Union” was held in Samarkand, serving as a platform to deepen interregional cooperation and develop parliamentary diplomacy.

At the opening ceremony, First Deputy Chairman of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis Sodik Safoev highlighted the forum’s importance as a venue to strengthen dialogue, build trust, and expand practical collaboration.

Speakers noted that last year’s Samarkand summit elevated cooperation to the level of strategic partnership, and the forum represents an initiative to institutionalize dialogue between Central Asian countries and the EU.

Deputy Chair of the European Parliament Kristal Shaldemose emphasized the EU’s comprehensive engagement with Central Asia, focusing on stability, prosperity, multilateral cooperation, free trade, and democratic principles. MEP Giusi Princi underscored the importance of deepening interparliamentary dialogue, ensuring sustainable development, and upholding the rule of law.

Representatives from the parliaments of Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Kyrgyzstan also stressed the need to expand interregional partnerships.

Discussions focused on political dialogue, the role of parliamentary diplomacy, and institutional strengthening of cooperation.

The forum continued with thematic sessions. The first session addressed the current state and prospects of political dialogue between Central Asia and the EU, including implementation of agreements from the 2025 Samarkand summit and improvements to the legal framework.

The second session focused on economic interconnectivity, sustainable growth, and green transformation, covering transport and logistics development, environmental initiatives, and investment cooperation.

The third session examined the rule of law, digital transformation, and inclusive governance, including human rights, cybersecurity, and regulation of modern technologies.

The forum concluded with the adoption of a joint statement reflecting initiatives and agreements reached during the event, aimed at further strengthening interregional cooperation between Central Asian countries and the European Union.