EU Seeks Stronger Central Asia Ties, Highlights Key South Caucasus Role

European Council President Antonio Costa emphasized the critical importance of a stable South Caucasus during a visit to Kazakhstan on Tuesday. He stated that a "peaceful and prosperous" region is essential for building stronger connections between Europe and Central Asia. Costa met with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in the capital, Astana. Their talks focused on deepening the strategic partnership between the European Union and Kazakhstan. The meeting coincides with the 10th anniversary of the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (EPCA) between both sides. This pact forms the legal foundation for their collaboration in trade, energy, and political reform. Costa’s comments underscore the EU's strategic interest in Central Asia as a partner. Stability in the South Caucasus, a region between the Black and Caspian Seas, is viewed as vital for developing secure transport and energy corridors linking the two continents.