EU and Central Asian States Strengthen Cooperation on Water, Energy, and Climate

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The first meeting of the Steering Committee of the “Team Europe Initiative” (TEI) on water, energy, and climate change took place in Tashkent, bringing together Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.

The meeting is part of the European Union’s Global Gateway strategy and aims to strengthen regional partnerships and promote joint sustainable development projects.

Charlotte Adrian, Head of the Central Asia and Afghanistan Unit at the European Commission (DG INTPA), highlighted the importance of an integrated approach:

“The interconnection between water resources, energy, and climate change forms the foundation for a sustainable future in Central Asia. Significant progress can only be achieved through joint and coordinated action — this is our shared goal,” she said.

Adrian noted that under the Global Gateway initiative, the European Commission coordinates efforts among EU member states and European financial institutions, supporting major regional projects including the development of the Kambarata and Rogun hydropower plants.

Dr. Karolina Milov, Head of the EU Regional Program for Sustainable Central Asia, emphasized the role of GIZ as the technical secretariat of the initiative:

“One of our key tasks is to facilitate dialogue among initiative participants to enhance synergy. We aim to promote innovative approaches for efficient water use, renewable energy development, and climate adaptation in line with national priorities and EU strategic directions,” she said.

The Steering Committee focused on aligning priorities in water policy, energy, and climate resilience. Participants discussed deepening coordination between the EU, Central Asian states, and international organizations, as well as mobilizing additional resources to implement joint initiatives.

Representatives from the region’s ministries of foreign affairs, water management, energy, and environment, alongside officials from the European Commission, EU member states, and international institutions, attended the meeting.