EU to invest €12 billion in Central Asian development
The European Union and Central Asian countries — Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan — have signed an agreement to move toward a strategic partnership. Brussels announced a €12 billion investment package under the Global Gateway initiative. The support covers key sectors of regional development and confirms the EU’s commitment to deepening cooperation with Central Asia.
Funding will be allocated to infrastructure and sector-specific projects, including:
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Transport initiatives — €3 billion
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Development of critical raw material supply chains — €2.5 billion
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Environmental and energy programs — €6.4 billion
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Digital transformation and sustainable connectivity
Some of the projects have already been approved and received support from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. The main focus is on improving logistics routes, modernizing transport hubs, expanding energy infrastructure, and transitioning to a green economy.
The Global Gateway initiative is designed to serve as the EU’s response to shifting global geopolitics and competition in international investment. Through this agreement, Brussels strengthens its position in a region where the influence of other global powers — including China, Russia, and the U.S. — is on the rise.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, speaking at the leaders’ plenary session, emphasized the importance of partnership with Central Asia: “New global barriers are emerging, investments are being redirected or reduced. Powers are redrawing spheres of influence. Reliable partners have never been more essential. Our strategic partnership is a commitment to support one another.”
The investment decision is seen as a significant step toward enhancing stability, sustainable development, and economic integration between Europe and Central Asia. The program is expected to be implemented in close cooperation with national governments, international financial institutions, and the private sector.
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