Amid Europe’s growing interest in Central Asia, the Central Asia – European Union Think Tank Forum took place in Tashkent. The event was organized by the International Institute for Central Asia and was attended by leading experts, analysts, and representatives of research organizations from across the region and the EU. Astana Open Dialogue presents recommendations from the event.
I. Economic integration and market opening
To deepen economic cooperation between the European Union and Central Asian countries, the following measures are proposed:
II. Visa liberalization and citizen mobility
It is recommended to take measures to:
III. Humanitarian and educational cooperation
To expand humanitarian interaction, it is proposed to:
IV. Regional security and sustainable development
It is recommended to enhance:
V. Formation of high-level informal groups
VI. Strengthening parliamentary cooperation
VII. Development of Central Asia's soft power in Europe
VIII. Deepened engagement in the media space
IX. Institutional cooperation with European structures
The implementation of these recommendations will contribute to a long-term strategic partnership between the EU and Central Asia, strengthening stability, security, and economic prosperity in both regions.
I. Economic integration and market opening
To deepen economic cooperation between the European Union and Central Asian countries, the following measures are proposed:
- Establishment of joint platforms and mechanisms aimed at eliminating non-tariff barriers, simplifying customs procedures, and harmonizing certification standards.
- Development of Free Trade Agreements (FTA) considering the membership of some regional countries in the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), including systematic dialogue between the EU and EAEU on issues of standardization and regulatory convergence.
- Investment in transport and logistics infrastructure to enhance the region's transit potential, support for multimodal transport projects, and digitalization of trade procedures.
- Stimulation of digital trade through the introduction of joint standards and regulations.
- Launch of a specialized program to support exports of non-raw materials from Central Asia to the EU, with a particular focus on agricultural products, textiles, and food industries.
II. Visa liberalization and citizen mobility
It is recommended to take measures to:
- Introduce simplified visa procedures for key population groups, including businessmen, researchers, investors, and students.
- Create a special mechanism for multiple long-term (5-10 years) visas for active participants in joint programs and initiatives.
- Engage in negotiations on further visa liberalization with a medium-term prospect of introducing visa-free travel.
III. Humanitarian and educational cooperation
To expand humanitarian interaction, it is proposed to:
- Significantly increase funding for Erasmus+, Horizon Europe, and similar projects, ensuring additional grants and internships.
- Establish joint research centers on sustainable development, climate change, and digital technologies.
- Initiate cultural projects that foster mutual understanding and intercultural exchange, including book and film translations, joint exhibitions, forums, and festivals.
IV. Regional security and sustainable development
It is recommended to enhance:
- Joint initiatives to combat terrorism, extremism, and illegal migration, including knowledge exchange and the organization of educational programs.
- Cooperation in water resource management and ecology in the context of climate change, promoting sustainable regional development.
V. Formation of high-level informal groups
- Creation of expert working groups involving government, business, and academic representatives to promptly address key issues and conduct consultations on complex matters.
- Organization of regular informal meetings and forums to strengthen personal ties and accelerate decision-making.
VI. Strengthening parliamentary cooperation
- Regular inter-parliamentary meetings and joint events between the European Parliament and the parliaments of Central Asian states.
- Establishment of permanent joint parliamentary committees and the organization of joint hearings on key issues such as trade development and market promotion.
VII. Development of Central Asia's soft power in Europe
- Increasing awareness of Central Asia’s cultural heritage in EU countries through regular cultural events, exhibitions, and presentations.
- Support for literary and scientific translation projects to promote the intellectual potential of the region.
VIII. Deepened engagement in the media space
- Launch of joint media projects and content exchange between national TV channels, radio stations, and digital platforms.
- Development of joint training programs and experience exchange among journalists and bloggers.
- Implementation of initiatives to create media products that promote a positive image of the region.
IX. Institutional cooperation with European structures
- Organization of systematic consultations and strategic dialogue with the European Commission, the Council of Europe, and the European Parliament.
- Joint development and implementation of projects with EU institutions in the fields of economy, legislation, education, and culture.
- Creation of permanent communication channels and expert working groups to improve coordination between the parties.
The implementation of these recommendations will contribute to a long-term strategic partnership between the EU and Central Asia, strengthening stability, security, and economic prosperity in both regions.