In Central Asia, the EU positions itself as an alternative to China and Russia

Samarkand (Uzbekistan) – The third “European Union – Central Asia” summit since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022 brought together European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, European Council President Antonio Costa, and the leaders of the five countries in the region (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan).

In Samarkand, an Uzbek city located on the ancient Silk Road, Ms. von der Leyen welcomed the “entry into a new era” of relations between the Union and Central Asia, launching a “strategic partnership” meant to be a “commitment to be there for each other.”

She announced €12 billion in aid for Central Asia as part of the “Global Gateway” project for infrastructure, a European response to the “New Silk Roads” promoted by Beijing.

The European leader emphasized four areas: transport, raw materials, clean energy, and digital connectivity, while Mr. Costa highlighted the “vast potential” of this cooperation. (April 4, 2025)