The High-Level Political and Security Dialogue between the countries of Central Asia and the EU in Brussels

On May 28, 2019 the next meeting of the High-level Political and Security Dialogue between the European Union and the countries of Central Asia (Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan) took place in Brussels. Afghanistan was invited to take part in the Dialogue as a special guest.

The meeting that was held amid the adoption of the EU new Strategy for Central Asia, discussed the key matters of mutual interest, particularly security and stability issues in the region and beyond. The delegations of the  Central Asian states and the European Union pointing out the divers developments in different parts of the globe, recognized the seriousness of current security threats and stressed the important and timely adoption of the new Strategy of Europe in the region, which will provide more opportunities for Europe-Central Asia cooperation.

Representatives of the Central Asian countries and the EU discussed the issues related to the threat of extremist and terrorist groups and exchanged views on ways to deepen joint cooperation in preventing the threats of terrorism and criminal groups. The sides also exchanged views on recent developments in illegal drug trafficking and border management, including possibilities for reinforced cooperation in these areas.

Also, the parties discussed other contemporary challenges, such as the impact of climate change and environment-related threats.

Permanent Representative of the Republic of Tajikistan to the European Union, Dr. Erkinkhon Rahmatullozoda, who represented Tajikistan in this Dialogue, delivered a detailed speech on the agenda of the meeting and highlighted the threats of terrorist groups at the southern borders of Tajikistan, and presented the country's suggestions on reinforcing joint efforts against the security threats.

Representatives of the Central Asian states expressed their countries' readiness to play an active role in the promotion of peace and development in Afghanistan and discussed possibilities of closer cooperation among the EU, Central Asia and Afghanistan.

The meeting was chaired by Mr. Jean-Christophe Belliard, Deputy Secretary General for Political Affairs of the European External Action Service.