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 The European Union (EU) has edged closer to Central Asia, geographically, politically and economically. Central Asia has a centuries-old tradition of bringing Europe and Asia together.
The diplomatic relations between the EU and Central Asian countries, which began over 15 years ago, have developed to an active and comprehensive long-term partnership.
The EU has become the largest donor in the region, providing assistance amounted to over €1,3 billion. It covers cooperation on democratic reform, economic modernization, regional cooperation, energy, water, environment and the common threats, like terrorism, drugs and human trafficking.
In a globalised world of 21 century, the time has come for a new partnership between the EU and Central Asia. Therefore, the EU has adopted a new cooperation strategy towards the region: The EU and Central Asia: Strategy for a New Partnership . The document determines the form and priorities of cooperation between EU and Central Asian countries, based on their specific needs, analyses the political and economic situation in the region and puts ground for an effective dialogue.
Along the comprehensive EU Strategy, there are essential bilateral framework documents between the EU and its Central Asia partners, including Partnership and Co-operation Agreements and a number of sector-specific agreements.
The European Union has strong interest in a peaceful, democratic and economically prosperous Central Asia . The EU acknowledges the progress which the Central Asian States have made since attaining the independence. Through manifold co-operation and assistance programmes the EU further promotes stability and prosperity in the region, thus making Central Asia a reliable partner for the EU with shared principles and goals.
In June 2008, the European Council and the European Commission have published their Joint Progress Report on the implementation of the EU Central Asia Strategy . The Report concluded that the overall progress on implementing the Strategy has been encouraging. Within a year under review, a significant intensification of political dialogue and practical co-operation in all priority areas indicated in the Strategy has been achieved. The EU remains committed to continue its current efforts and maintain political momentum to implement visible projects exercising sustainable impact on key areas of co-operation.
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