UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron is going to visit Central Asia, as evident from his recent statement at the parliament. During the parliament debates on foreign affairs, he said: “…Central Asia is one of those networks in which we want to do better. I am planning a visit there. I will be holding a round table with anyone who knows the industries, business, voluntary bodies … [Read more...]
South Korea, Central Asia Launch Civil Service Cooperation Network
On 7 March 2024, South Korea's Minister of Personnel Management, Kim Seung Ho, met with heads of Central Asian diplomatic missions in Seoul. The meeting marked the launch of the South Korea-Central Asia Civil Service Network, a framework for cooperation in improving civil service systems, according to the Korea ministry of personal management. The meeting was attended by … [Read more...]
UNRCCA Launches 2024 Preventive Diplomacy Academy for the New Cohort of Young Leaders from Central Asia and Afghanistan
On March 5, the first session was held for students of the UNRCCA (UN Regional Center for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia) Preventive Diplomacy Academy from the countries of Central Asia and Afghanistan in online format. As a result of the competition, forty-eight participants aged 19 to 29 were selected among university students and graduates in political science, … [Read more...]
OSCE-Central Asian Meeting in Ashgabat Paves Way for Stronger Climate Action
On 4 March 2024, Ashgabat hosted a forum of the OSCE and Ministers of Environmental Protection of Central Asian countries on issues related to climate change and sustainable development. OSCE Secretary General Helga Schmid commented on the outcomes of the meeting in an interview with the Neutral Turkmenistan newspaper. Here are the key points mentioned by Ms.Schmid: • … [Read more...]
OSCE and Central Asia held a meeting in Ashgabat on regional cooperation in the field of ecology
On 4 March 2024, the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) and Central Asian environment ministers convened in Ashgabat to discuss regional ecological cooperation, according to TDH. OSCE Secretary General Helga Schmid emphasized the meeting's significance, highlighting its role in refocusing attention on contemporary environmental challenges. Schmid … [Read more...]
OSCE Secretary General to visit Turkmenistan
OSCE Secretary General Helga Maria Schmid will visit Turkmenistan from 4 to 6 March for meetings with the Ministers of Environment from Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and with the Deputy Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan. In Ashgabat, the Secretary General will engage with the high-level officials at a strategic … [Read more...]
Central Asia is in pragmatic interaction with Afghanistan – Is the time now for world to recognize Taliban?
Tariq Saeedi In Central Asia, there is the unanimity among the regional countries to remain engaged with Afghanistan pragmatically. There are many reasons for it. Over a period of time, we talked to several diplomats and other officials from the regional countries. There were two questions we asked, though phrased differently each time: 1. Why is your country interacting … [Read more...]
The UAE and Saudi Arabia Lead the Way on Central Asian Energy Pivot
As Central Asian states seek to diversify their economic partnerships, the UAE and Saudi Arabia double down on green investments in the region to bolster their energy transitions. Dania SaadiFeb 28, 2024 A view shows wind turbines near the village of Nura in the Almaty region, Kazakhstan, May 3, 2023. (REUTERS/Pavel Mikheyev) Dania … [Read more...]
UNRCCA participates in the Regional meeting on enhancing women’s participation in the peacebuilding processes in the Ferghana valley
On 27 February, 2024 United Nations Regional Center for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia (UNRCCA) took part in the Regional Meeting on Enhancing Women's Participation in the Peacebuilding Processes in Ferghana Valley. The Meeting was organized jointly by “For International Tolerance” Fund (Kyrgyzstan), “Istiqbolli Avlod” Socio-informational Centre (Uzbekistan), … [Read more...]
Central Asia – Regional Gas Landscape – Current Narrative
Elvira Kadyrova The gas landscape in Central Asia is complex and constantly evolving. The current situation relies on exports-imports of natural gas at least from three of the five countries in the region. What does the current gas landscape look like in this part of Eurasia and what agreements will determine gas relations in the future today? Uzbekistan plans to invest … [Read more...]
The Central Asia link
Anton Usov At the Second European Union (EU)-Central Asia Economic Forum at the end of May 2023, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) presented a study on sustainable transport connections between Central Asia and Europe. Funded by the European Commission, the study identified country-specific needs and measures to reduce transportation costs, increase … [Read more...]
Central Asia Tackles Climate Risks in River Basins
On 20 February 2024, a regional seminar on "Climate risk assessment and capacity development" was held in Tashkent, dedicated to the launch of a major study on climate risk assessment for five river basins in Central Asia, the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change of Uzbekistan reports. Based on the results of the assessment, measures to mitigate the … [Read more...]
Kazakhstan is interested in building a prosperous and peaceful region and in the sustainable development of Central Asia, says Murat Nurtleu
Kazakhstan is interested in building a prosperous and peaceful region and in the sustainable development of the Central Asian countries, Deputy Prime Minister - Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan Murat Nurtleu said at a meeting with Kaha Imnadze, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General, Head of the UN Regional Center for Preventive Diplomacy for Central … [Read more...]
UK Launches International Climate Change Fund for Central Asia
The United Kingdom government has taken a significant step towards addressing climate challenges in Central Asia by establishing the International Climate Change Fund for Central Asia. This marks the first dedicated international fund by the UK for climate action in the region. The announcement was made by UK Ambassador to Kazakhstan, Kathy Leach, during a meeting with … [Read more...]
Central Asia experiences a turning point, says President of Kazakhstan
Central Asia is experiencing a turning point in its history, and the region's political and economic contacts have noticeably intensified, believes the President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. "We are forming a new image of Central Asia, a region that has played an important role in the development of civilizations since ancient times, and also opens up unique … [Read more...]
Xinjiang Exports to Central Asia Surge, Led by Electric Vehicles and Solar Panels
Trade between China's Xinjiang region and Central Asia hit a record high in 2023, totaling 283.67 billion yuan, according to Xinhua. This figure represents 79.4% of Xinjiang's total foreign trade, highlighting the region's growing importance as a trade hub. Xinjiang's exports to Central Asia jumped 23.2% year-on-year to 246.57 billion yuan. Labor-intensive and … [Read more...]
Central Asia Launches €11Million worth One Health Initiative to Combat Zoonotic Diseases
A new six-year, €11 million initiative, "One Health in Central Asia," was launched at the 14th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS COP14) in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. Led by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and funded by the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, … [Read more...]
Central Asian Representatives, EU Discuss Afghanistan’s Socio-Economic, Security Challenges
On 14 February 2024, Bishkek hosted the 5th meeting of special representatives from Central Asian states and the European Union on Afghanistan. Key participants included UN Secretary-General's Special Representative, Head of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan Rosa Otumbayeva, the Special Representative of the European Union for Central Asia Terhi Hakala, and the Special … [Read more...]
UN Women Tashkent Consultations: Central Asia’s potential for achieving gender equality under the spotlight
The potential and opportunities for Central Asia to achieve gender equality were explored in-depth at consultations held in Tashkent on 12 February. The event, titled "Empowering women and girls, as well as ensuring gender equality by addressing poverty, strengthening mechanisms and gender-oriented financing," was jointly organized by the Senate of the Oliy Majlis (Parliament) … [Read more...]
FAO, Supported by GEF, Launches Projects to Transform Central Asian Agriculture
The Global Environment Facility (GEF) has greenlighted 48 FAO-led projects worth about $2.9 billion –$294 million in project financing and $2.6 billion in co-financing– that will play a pivotal role in fostering a sustainable agrifood systems transformation to end hunger and conserve the environment. Five Central Asian countries – Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, … [Read more...]
USA and Central Asia held the inaugural meeting of the C5+1 Critical Minerals Dialogue
On 8 February 2024, the US Department of State hosted the inaugural meeting of the C5+1 Critical Minerals Dialogue (CMD). According to press release, issued by the US Department of State, the meeting was chaired by Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment Jose W. Fernandez. The discussion was focused on goals and objectives of the CMD, which will seek … [Read more...]
TRUTH FOR THE DIPLOMAT – Part 4
Dr. Begench Karaev The science of diplomacy: the monolith of the East and the binary of the West “...The 21st century has brought into our lives not only high technologies, ultra-high-speed communications, fantastic innovations, but also many things that were unthinkable in the 20th century. In particular, before our eyes there is a transformation taking place in the … [Read more...]
Ambassador Akmaljon Kuchkarov hosted a press briefing – An overview of the current state of multidimensional Turkmen–Uzbek relations presented
On 5 February 2024, the Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Turkmenistan, Akmaljon Kuchkarov, hosted a briefing for Turkmen journalists and representatives of foreign media accredited in Ashgabat. The event was dedicated to the 583rd anniversary of the great Uzbek writer and thinker Alisher Navoi, who made a huge contribution to the development of Turkic literature. In addition, … [Read more...]
Afghanistan Eyes Balanced Trade with Central Asia
In 2023, Afghanistan imported about $1.4 billion worth of goods from Central Asian countries, while the country exported goods worth $100 million, TOLOnews reports, citing the Afghan Ministry of Industry and Trade. According to the ministry's spokesman Akhundzada Abdul Salam Javad, the country's main exports to Central Asia are fresh fruits, dried fruits, while attempts are … [Read more...]
Turkish Giant Rönesans Expands to Central Asia, First PPP Hospital Project in Kazakhstan Underway
Leading Turkish contracting and investment group Rönesans, expecting €3.3 billion revenue in 2023, outlined its ambitious expansion plans focusing on Central Asia, particularly Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan. In 2023, Rönesans deepened its relationships with international partners and embarked on several new collaborations and investments, showcasing its successful … [Read more...]
Central Asian SMEs are embracing sustainability – Success Stories from Kyrgyzstan and Turkmenistan
Bilguun Batsukh Known for their picturesque natural beauty and breath-taking mountains, the lands of Central Asia are especially vulnerable to climate change due to their high altitude and dependency on extractive industries. The EBRD and donors invest comprehensively in Green Economy Transformation in Central Asia, from facilitating policy dialogue, developing legislative … [Read more...]
Global Gateway: EU and Central Asian countries agree on building blocks to develop the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor
During the two-day Investors Forum for EU-Central Asia Transport Connectivity, the European Union, Central Asian countries (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan) and other gathered partners from across the world have made important steps to start the development of the fast route Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor linking Europe and Central Asia within … [Read more...]
EIB Global to Support Sustainable Transport in Central Asia with Co-financing of €1.47 Billion
EIB Global, the European Union's bank for long-term investments outside the EU, has signed memorandums of understanding for project co-financing with Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Uzbekistan, and the Development Bank of Kazakhstan for a total of €1.47 billion, the EU Delegation to Uzbekistan reports. This significant commitment was announced at the EU-Central Asia … [Read more...]
European and international financial institutions announce €10 billion commitment to support sustainable connectivity in Central Asia
The Global Gateway Investors Forum for EU-Central Asia Transport Connectivity started today (29 January 2024) in Brussels. The event brings together government officials, financing institutions, businesses and civil society from Europe, all five Central Asian countries, and beyond. European Commission Executive Vice President Valdis Dombrovskis announced that European and … [Read more...]
Xinjiang Opens Large-Scale Electric Vehicle Production Targeting Central Asia
A large-scale production facility of motorcycles and electric bikes has opened in Khorgos, China, on the border with Kazakhstan, CGTN reports. The company is located in the Xinjiang Pilot Free Trade Zone and belongs to a local technology company in the field of new energy Kingold. This is the first such project in Xinjiang, fully focused on the Central Asian market. 150 … [Read more...]
Xinjiang’s Trade grows with Central Asia, Becoming its Largest Market
Urumqi customs data shows Central Asia as the largest trading partner for China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region (XUAR). In 2023, trade turnover surged by 50%, accounting for a remarkable 79.4% of XUAR's total foreign trade volume, Xinhua reports. Trade with Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan, XUAR's top three partners, increased by 70.8%, 25.8%, and 93.4%, … [Read more...]
Central Asian Law Enforcements Trained in Advanced Crisis Negotiation Techniques
Techniques of negotiation in hostage and the use of weapons in crisis situations, has been the focus of a five-day training organized by the project on Law Enforcement in Central Asia - LEICA, funded by the European Union, in Almaty (Kazakhstan). The training took place from 22-26 January 2024. At the training actively participated 19 officers of diverse law enforcement … [Read more...]
Italy Proposes Aral Sea Restoration Project to Central Asia
An Italian engineering company has unveiled a project to revive the Aral Sea basin, offering hope for environmental recovery in Central Asia where the sea's shrinkage stands as a major crisis. President Roberto Mantovanelli and CEO Errico Stravato of SOGESID presented the initiative to ambassadors of Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan at the Ministry for … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan voiced its priorities during High-Level Briefing to Member States on UN Office of Counter-Terrorism’s projects in Central Asia
On January 23, 2024, a High-Level Briefing to Member States on UN Office of Counter-Terrorism's projects in Central Asia was organized at the UN headquarters. The briefing was attended by Under-Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT) Vladimir Voronkov, Executive Director of the Executive Directorate of the UN Counter-terrorism … [Read more...]
Investors Forum for EU-Central Asia Transport Connectivity – 29 and 30 January 2024
The European Commission invites you to the Investors Forum for EU-Central Asia Transport Connectivity; Taking place on 29 and 30 January 2024 in Brussels, the Investors Forum for EU-Central Asia Transport Connectivity will bring together high-level representatives from Central Asian countries, EU Member States, partner countries along the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor, EU … [Read more...]
Ecology, climate and water are the foundation of effective domestic and foreign policy
Ismail Dairov “Our country is part of a transboundary water system” --- President Sadyr Japarov, II People's Kurultai, Bishkek, December 15-16, 2023 Environmental, climate change and water policy issues have been the focus of the author's professional interests throughout his more than 30-year career at the national and regional levels. Moreover, if the first part of this … [Read more...]
THE TRUTH FOR THE DIPLOMAT: A VIEW FROM THE EAST – 3
Dr. Begench Karaev Part 3. Eastern Diplomat: A Closer Look Winter January morning. More precisely - 7:58 am. Although there is not much time left before sunrise, it is nevertheless dark enough to not turn on the car's headlights. I taxi out onto a small street that runs parallel to the fence of one of the foreign embassies. At the house next to it I see the silhouette of … [Read more...]
Pakistan unveils concept of the Second CPEC Cultural Caravan for Central Asian States
Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture of Pakistan Jamal Shah, on Tuesday (23 Jan) met with Ambassadors of Central Asian States, Russia and China to discuss the initial plan of second ‘CPEC Cultural Caravan 2024’, APP reports. Addressing the diplomats, Jamal Shah told that Pakistan plans to organize a second China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) Cultural Caravan … [Read more...]
Kazakhstan Agency for International Development “KazAID” offers educational programs to civil servants from Central Asia
The Kazakhstan Agency for International Development (KazAID) is forging strong connections across Central Asia by offering valuable educational opportunities for civil servants. In a recent briefing attended by representatives from embassies of Central Asian countries, KazAID unveiled its 2024 program lineup, showcasing initiatives designed to enhance governance and regional … [Read more...]
Kazakhstan and Hopes to Save the Aral Lake
Prof. Dr. Abdulvahap kara Efforts to save the Aral Sea, which constitutes one of the world's biggest ecological disasters, continue. Kazakhstan took over the presidency of the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea (IFAS), which has increased its activities in this regard in recent years. As of January 2024. Kazakhstan will fulfill this duty for a period of three … [Read more...]
THE TRUTH FOR THE DIPLOMAT: A VIEW FROM THE EAST – 2
Dr. Begench Karaev The Caliph asked: “So you are Layla, that drove the poor man Kais crazy? But I don’t find beauty in you, no matter how I look, I’m not going crazy!” And the lips of the young maiden whispered: “To see beauty, you must be Majnun, And carry its light in your eyes, and be faithful to me in both worlds... ...And yet the Truth knocks on … [Read more...]
Central Asia not circumventing Western sanctions
Raza Syed The ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine is forcing the whole world to adapt to a new political and economic reality. Sanctions, counter-sanctions, and the breakdown of existing production and logistics chains are becoming a serious challenge for some, and a matter of survival for other states. The countries of Central Asia are also deeply affected by this … [Read more...]
Margaritis Schinas – Europe is in long-term commitment with Central Asia
Vice President of EC completes his Central Asia visit with last stop in Turkmenistan Margaritis Schinas, the Vice President of the European Commission (EC) completed his tour of the five Central Asian countries with the last stop in Turkmenistan on 17 January 2023. In Turkmenistan, he had several meetings including with President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and the foreign minister … [Read more...]
Uzbekistan Leads the Way in Central Asia Joining the UN Protocol on Water and Health
Uzbekistan has taken a significant step towards safeguarding its water resources and protecting public health by becoming the first Central Asian nation to join the UN Protocol on Water and Health, UN News reports. This initiative demonstrates the country's commitment to tackling critical water and sanitation challenges amidst a growing population and the harsh realities of … [Read more...]
EU-Uzbekistan Trade Grows, and EU-Central Asia Summit in Sight
Uzbekistan and the European Union witnessed a 30% surge in trade volume during 2023, as announced by the Uzbek President's press service following a meeting between President Mirziyoyev and EU Vice President Margaritis Schinas. Leading European companies are actively participating in major investment projects within Uzbekistan's high-tech sectors, further solidifying the … [Read more...]
Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong Meets with Ambassadors of the Five Central Asian Countries to China
On January 11, 2024, Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong held a group meeting with ambassadors of the five Central Asian countries to China. Sun Weidong said that the five Central Asian countries are China's close neighbors and comprehensive strategic partners. Over the past decade, President Xi Jinping has maintained close exchanges with heads of state of the Central Asian … [Read more...]
Wang Yi: China-Central Asia Summit created a new platform for good-neighbourliness and friendly cooperation in the region
A successful China-Central Asia Summit, held last year, created a new platform for good-neighbourliness and friendly cooperation in the region. This statement came from foreign minister of China Wang Yi during his remarks at the Symposium on the International Situation and China’s Foreign Relations in Beijing on 9 January 2024. Here is a corresponding excerpt from his speech, … [Read more...]
Brussels to host Investors Forum for EU-Central Asia Transport Connectivity
Brussels will host Investors Forum for EU-Central Asia Transport Connectivity on 29-30 January 2024, European Commission reports. The Global Gateway Transport Investors Forum takes forward the conclusions of the EU-commissioned Study on Sustainable Transport Corridors between the EU and Central Asia, and aims to translate the political commitments of the EU and the five … [Read more...]
China’s major manufacturing hub opens new TIR route with Uzbekistan
Shenzhen is accelerating the development of TIR transport corridors connecting China to Central Asia to facilitate growing trade volumes, slashing delivery times. Following the successful launch of the Shenzhen (China) and Almaty (Kazakhstan) TIR route in 2023, a new route connecting Shenzhen to Uzbekistan’s capital, Tashkent, has been activated by IRU member ZZHY. A Chinese … [Read more...]
THE TRUTH FOR THE DIPLOMAT: A VIEW FROM THE EAST
Dr. Begench Karayev Everything we see is only one appearance. Far from the surface of the world to the bottom. Consider the obvious in the world to be unimportant, For the secret essence of things is not visible. Omar Khayyam Whenever you trust words, And the truth that is known by the heart, Let the heart light up from the truth, There would … [Read more...]