First Central Asia-EU Summit Kicks Off in Samarkand

The first Central Asia-European Union Summit has begun in Samarkand under the chairmanship of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

The event is attended by European Council President António Costa, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Presidents Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Sadyr Japarov, Emomali Rahmon and Serdar Berdimuhamedov, The Caspian Post reports citing Akipress.

The President of Uzbekistan opened the event with his speech.

At the beginning of his speech, President Mirziyoyev emphasized that the meeting is taking place in the context of unpredictable global processes.

"We are witnessing increasing geopolitical tensions, security issues, major regional conflicts, social and economic challenges to sustainable development. It is obvious that no region can cope with such complex issues on its own without broad international cooperation," Gazeta.uz quotes Mirziyoyev as saying.

Mirziyoyev emphasized that Central Asia shares the commitment of the European Union to the principles and norms of international law.

Photo: akipress.com

"We welcome and fully support the start of the negotiation process for a peaceful settlement of the situation around Ukraine," the President of Uzbekistan said.

He expressed understanding that very complex issues need to be resolved.

"But we do not see any other alternative to the diplomatic efforts and political decisions being undertaken," Shavkat Mirziyoyev emphasized.

The theme of the summit is "Investing in the Future." The dialogue will consider the prospects for the development of multifaceted relations and practical interaction between the Central Asian states and the EU.

Photo: akipress.com