Brussels, February 24, 2025 – The Europe Today: A high-level delegation from Uzbekistan, led by Abdulaziz Kamilov, Special Representative of the President on Foreign Policy, recently concluded a series of strategic meetings in Brussels with key European partners. The discussions centered on the current state of Uzbekistan’s cooperation with the European Union and the progress made in preparations for the upcoming “Central Asia – European Union” summit, scheduled for April 3-4, 2025, in Samarkand.
During the visit, the Uzbek delegation engaged in talks with senior EU officials, including Pedro Lourtie, Head of the Cabinet of the President of the European Council; Vivian Loonela, Head of the Cabinet of the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy; and Bartjan Wegter, EU Counter-Terrorism Coordinator. Javlon Vakhabov, Director of the International Institute for Central Asia, accompanied the delegation and contributed to the discussions.
A key focus of the meeting with Mr. Lourtie was the development of interregional cooperation in the lead-up to the Samarkand summit. The two sides explored opportunities for strengthening ties within the broader framework of Central Asia-EU relations.
In discussions with Ms. Loonela, the delegation emphasized the ongoing efforts to implement the 2019 EU Strategy for Central Asia. The talks highlighted the importance of adapting the strategy to the evolving geopolitical landscape, with particular attention to expanding economic cooperation, advancing sustainable development goals, and enhancing regional security. A significant part of the negotiations also revolved around advancing transport connectivity, particularly through the Trans-Caspian Corridor, aimed at linking Central Asia with Europe. The initiative is expected to enhance trade, investment, digital connections, and overall regional economic integration.
EU Counter-Terrorism Coordinator Bartjan Wegter underscored the importance of multilateral cooperation in combating terrorism. Reflecting on the outcomes of the “Central Asia – European Union: A New Agenda for Security Cooperation” conference held last year at the International Institute for Central Asia, Mr. Wegter stressed the practical benefits of such regional dialogues in fostering joint action, experience-sharing, and mutual support in the fight against terrorism.
The discussions resulted in the formulation of practical proposals for enriching the agenda for the upcoming summit. The proposals focus on expanding interregional cooperation, advancing infrastructure projects, deepening trade and economic relations, enhancing security cooperation, and addressing emerging global challenges.
The Uzbekistan delegation’s visit to Brussels marks an important step in enhancing the strategic partnership between Central Asia and the European Union, with the Samarkand summit set to provide a significant platform for continued dialogue and cooperation.
