On 16 July, the European Union and the five Central Asian countries—Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan—held their 13th High-Level Political and Security Dialogue in Brussels, reaffirming their commitment to deepening strategic ties. The meeting, chaired by EEAS Deputy Secretary-General for Political Affairs Olof Skoog, brought together deputy foreign ministers from Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, along with the Kyrgyz ambassador to the EU.
The dialogue reviewed global and regional developments, including Russia's war in Ukraine, the Middle East situation, and Afghanistan. Both sides welcomed growing political engagement and agreed to continue addressing common security challenges as a key pillar of their partnership. They highlighted ongoing cooperation through EU programmes supporting border management, counter-terrorism, anti-drug trafficking, and cybersecurity. Sustainable connectivity, secure transport corridors, energy security, and digital transformation were identified as increasingly important for regional resilience and prosperity.
The EU reiterated its commitment to the Joint Roadmap for Deepening Ties between the EU and Central Asia (October 2023) and the first EU-Central Asia Summit (April 2025). It stressed the importance of enhancing resilience through effective governance, rule of law, accountable institutions, and inclusive economic development, while upholding international law, UN Charter principles, and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The dialogue impacts several stakeholders. Central Asian governments gain continued EU engagement and support for security and connectivity projects, but may face pressure to align with EU positions on Ukraine and governance reforms. EU institutions, particularly the EEAS, strengthen their strategic footprint in the region, though this requires sustained diplomatic and financial resources. EU businesses and investors could benefit from improved transport corridors and digital transformation, but face competition from other global powers. Civil society in Central Asia may see increased EU funding for governance and rule-of-law initiatives, though implementation depends on local political will.
No immediate institutional follow-up was announced, but the dialogue reinforces the annual format and the broader EU-Central Asia partnership framework.