EU and Central Asia boost water and energy cooperation

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — A high-level meeting under the Team Europe Initiative (TEI) was held in Astana on 23 April 2026, focusing on water resources, energy, and climate change in Central Asia.

The event brought together representatives of the European Union, EU member states, countries of the region, and international financial institutions.

Participants reaffirmed their shared commitment to strengthening regional cooperation and developing coordinated approaches to interconnected challenges, including water security, the transition to green energy, and improving resilience to climate change.

EU Special Representative for Central Asia Eduards Stiprais said the Astana meeting marked another stage in the development of EU–regional cooperation following the first EU–Central Asia summit held in April 2025.

He noted that the Team Europe Initiative is the largest EU program in Central Asia and is backed by €4.8 billion in investments aimed at implementing concrete projects in water management, renewable energy, and climate-related sectors.

Discussions emphasized the strategic importance of integrated and coordinated regional approaches. Particular attention was given to sustainable water resource management, the development of renewable energy sources, and strengthening climate action measures.

Participants highlighted the need to further expand cross-border cooperation and align national policies across the region.

Special Envoy of Italy for Climate Change Francesco Corvaro stressed that strengthening cooperation in these areas is a strategic factor for ensuring stability and sustainability in Central Asia. He added that Italy promotes comprehensive solutions under the initiative, including nature-based approaches and sustainable infrastructure development.

At the conclusion of the meeting, participants welcomed the adoption of joint conclusions reflecting agreed priorities and confirming continued engagement within the TEI framework.

The Team Europe Initiative on water, energy, and climate is part of the EU Global Gateway strategy and aims to reduce the investment gap through infrastructure partnerships based on transparency and high standards.

The EU’s total contribution under the initiative currently amounts to €4.8 billion.

The program continues and expands the work of the EU–Central Asia Platform for Environment and Water Cooperation, established in 2009.