The next High Level Political and Security Dialogue between the European Union and Central Asian countries (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan) took place on October 20 through video conferencing.
The Deputy Foreign Ministers of Central Asia, the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and the Secretary General of the European External Action Service MS Helga Schmid attended the event, according to the Tajik MFA information department.
During the meeting, the parties exchanged views on the state and prospects of further expansion of cooperation between Central Asia’s nations and the EU in the field of security and issues of assistance in achieving peace in Afghanistan through its active involvement in regional social and economic processes.
The importance of continuing close interaction and joining efforts to effectively combat the coronavirus pandemic and minimize its consequences was emphasized.
The delegations also discussed effects of climate change and environmental issues.
Speaking at the meeting, Tajik Deputy Foreign Minister, Muzaffar Huseinzoda, in particular, noted the timely measures taken by the Government of Tajikistan to eliminate negative consequences of COVID-19 and provide security measures, as well as recalled international initiatives of Tajikistan in the field of water resources.
He also emphasized that Tajikistan, as a co-chair of the "Heart of Asia – Istanbul Process", would make every effort during this period to increase the practical effectiveness of this framework.
In her turn, the Secretary General of the European External Action Service noted the important role of the European Union in preventing the negative consequences of COVID-19 and in addressing other issues of global agenda.
At the conclusion, of the meeting, the parties exchanged views on preparations for the next high-level meetings within the framework of cooperation between Central Asia and the European Union as well as on the implementation of joint priority projects.
