The European Commissioner for International Partnerships, Jozef Síkela, recently concluded an intensive tour of five Central Asian nations. During his trip, he engaged with key government figures and sealed multiple agreements aimed at supporting the Global Gateway initiative.

The plan, designed to gather €300 billion globally, targets four major areas in Central Asia: transportation, essential raw materials, digital infrastructure, and renewable energy.

"There lies significant unexplored potential. The purpose of visiting the area must emphasize both the significance of the region itself and the vital link between Europe and Central Asia. Additionally, it’s crucial to focus on tangible outcomes. We aim not just to boost our visibility but also to play a role in fostering the overall economic growth of the entire region," stated Síkela to Euronews.

He highlighted Central Asia's distinct role, acknowledging its status as home to several landlocked states, the difficulties caused by selective economic restrictions, and its closeness to nations such as Iran, Afghanistan, Russia, and China—despite this, Central Asia upholds the European Union’s dedication to the UN Charter and legal principles, thereby positioning itself as a crucial ally in our ever-fragmenting global landscape.

The commissioner’s trip started in Turkmenistan, where talks centered around the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor, an essential economic pathway linking Europe with Central Asia. Additionally, he endorsed Turkmenistan joining the Global Methane Pledge and signed off on two accords, one of which pertained to renewable energy.

In Kazakhstan, a framework loan worth €200 million for financing sustainable initiatives was agreed upon between the European Investment Bank and the Development Bank of Kazakhstan.

The conversations also covered critical raw materials and Europe’s focus on obtaining vital resources to support its green and digital transformation.

"On one hand, we require raw materials for Europe’s green and digital transformation. Conversely, those nations endowed with these resources must possess state-of-the-art and eco-friendly methods of extraction. Therefore, we are providing technical assistance, feasibility studies, and cutting-edge technologies from European firms," Síkela noted.

In Tajikistan, energy development became a focal point when an agreement worth €20 million was inked with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). This pact aims at updating the nation’s power infrastructure and boosting the use of renewable energies.

Meanwhile, the EBRD allocated €42 million to Kyrgyzstan for the Resilient Water Resources Program, which focuses on enhancing water management practices.

In Uzbekistan, enhancing digital connectivity was prioritized, leading to the signing of two accords aimed at broadening rural internet accessibility. This project encompasses a €34.4 million funding from the European Union alongside a €25.35 million loan provided to SES—a satellite firm based in Europe—to deliver high-speed internet services to isolated regions throughout Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan.

"This outstanding effort extends further than just connectivity; it paves the way for advancements in education, healthcare, and economic prospects, aiding in narrowing the digital gap and boosting worldwide connection," stated EIB Vice-President Kyriakos Kakouris following the signing ceremony.

A key aspect of Síkela’s trip to Uzbekistan was guaranteeing that everything was ready for the inaugural EU-Central Asia Summit scheduled for early April.

The schedule will cover interregional collaboration, potential trade and investment prospects, along with talks about worldwide security issues like Russia’s conflict in Ukraine and changes in U.S. policies.