On January 27 of this year ISRS Director Eldor Aripov held a meeting with Lea Tries, Program Manager at the European Commission’s Service for Foreign Policy Instruments (FPI) and Michaela Zelenanska, Political Affairs Officer at the Delegation of the European Union to the Republic of Uzbekistan.

Lea Tries expressed a positive assessment of developments in Central Asia, emphasizing the region’s growing significance on the international agenda. “Central Asia is showing positive dynamics and tangible examples of constructive regional cooperation. The EU considers Central Asia a priority partner and is keen to strengthen cooperation,” the European diplomat stated.

During the meeting, the parties discussed the current state and prospects of the partnership between the European Union and the countries of Central Asia, as well as opportunities to develop expert-level connections. They noted a mutual interest in strengthening sustainable links between Central Asian and EU research centers at both the regional and bilateral levels.

The interlocutors also outlined practical steps to develop systematic cooperation between ISRS and European partners, including the organization of joint events on current topics.

At the conclusion of the meeting, readiness was expressed to develop and implement initiatives at the expert and research-analytical levels aimed at strengthening the dialogue between Central Asia and the European Union.