The EU's Central Asian strategy in a globalizing world

In: Global power Europe: Vol. 2, Policies, actions and influence of the EU's external relations, p. 131-145

Abstract

"The EU's Central Asian Strategy is examined by the author in her contribution on the EU's external relations. EU interaction with Central Asia is characterized by a long period of contact, notable donations of aid and economic development assistance. Fundamental to this relationship is the persistence of the EU in the face of strong competition from other actors, such as Russia, the USA and China. The EU is a major trading partner and comprises the largest donor nation for the five Central Asian republics. Essential to the EU but less welcomed by the Central Asian nations is implementation and cooperation in the areas of human rights and democratization. Although the EU faces significant limitation in its Central Asia policy, the prospect of energy resources, new markets, and the resolution of problems with neighbors increases the EU's persistence, and could lead to positive results in the future." (author's abstract)