Cholpon-Ata, 03 June 2023 (TDI): In Cholpon-Ata, on June 2, 2023, the second regional high-level meeting was warmly greeted by the Central Asian States and European Union. The leaders were President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of the Republic of Kazakhstan, President Emomali Rahmon of the Republic of Tajikistan, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of the Republic of Uzbekistan, President Sadyr Zhaparov of the Kyrgyz Republic, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov of Turkmenistan (represented by Turkmenistan’s Deputy Chair of the Cabinet of Ministers, Nurmuhammet Amannepesov), and President of the European Council, Charles Michel.
During the meeting, the distinguished leaders expressed their satisfaction with the fruitful outcomes achieved through various dialogues and platforms, including the EU-Central Asia Economic Forum, Civil Society Forum, EU-Central Asia High-Level Conference on Environment and Water Resources, EU-Central Asia Connectivity Conference, and EU-Central Asia Ministerial Meeting.
They acknowledged the vital role played by these platforms in strengthening the institutional ties between the Central Asian nations and the European Union, recognizing their significance as catalysts for collaboration and cooperation.
The leaders unequivocally expressed their unwavering commitment to upholding the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter, which encompasses the utmost respect for independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the peaceful settlement of conflicts.
Acknowledging the deteriorating situation in Afghanistan, they voiced deep concerns and reiterated their dedication to supporting the nation in its pursuit of security, peace, and prosperity.
Emphasizing the urgent need for increased humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan, they emphasized the imperative of fostering an inclusive and representative government that safeguards human rights, freedoms, and equality for all.
In doing so, they called upon the international community to rally behind these shared objectives.
The leaders stressed the implementation of UN Security Council resolutions in combatting terrorism and extremism, with a particular focus on countering their online ideologies.
They recognized the need for enhanced cooperation between Central Asia and the EU to tackle present and future challenges while upholding universal principles.
To strengthen their ties, the leaders tasked their Foreign Ministers and the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy with developing a Joint Road Map for Deepening EU-Central Asia relations.
They reiterated their commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and emphasized the importance of cooperation in upholding the rule of law, democracy, good governance, gender equality, human rights, and fundamental freedoms.
The leaders acknowledged the significance of diversification and sustainable connectivity, aligning with the Global Gateway strategy.
They expressed satisfaction with the outcomes of the EU-Central Asia Connectivity Conference and demonstrated interest in further collaboration across various domains such as energy security, digitalization, transportation, and transitioning to a green and sustainable economy.
The leaders also commended the Team Europe Initiatives and the EU’s study on sustainable connectivity in Central Asia.
Mutual trade and investment mechanisms were highlighted as crucial drivers of socioeconomic growth, and continuous dialogue on EU sanctions regimes was deemed necessary.
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to implementing the Paris Agreement and pledged to collaborate on water-related issues, building on the outcomes of the UN 2023 Water Conference. They recognized the indispensable role of water in promoting peace and well-being in Central Asia and stressed the importance of sustainable solutions.
During a meeting, the leaders recognized the adverse effects of the Aral Sea disaster on regional security. They urged for increased efforts to address the issue. The leaders highlighted the significance of expanding connections between individuals, especially through higher education, culture, and tourism.
They also encouraged interaction between think tanks and civil society. The leaders discussed opportunities for joint training for Central Asian diplomats, including in the European Union.
The President of the European Council applauded the regional cooperation and reforms made in Central Asia. The President supported the region’s goals of prosperity, peace, sustainable development, good neighborliness, trust, and friendship. The leaders eagerly anticipated the Fifth Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia.
