The European Commission proposed on Tuesday that European Union countries, especially those bordering Russia, be allowed to use the money they get from the EU budget to bolster their defence capabilities.

Central Asia summit in Samarkand presents a unique opportunity that will undoubtedly give new impetus to the development of multifaceted cooperation between the regions, Bakhtiyor Mustafayev writes. V

Trade between the EU and Central Asia has grown significantly over the last 10 years. The European Union remains the largest investor in Central Asia, providing over 40% of foreign direct investments over the past ten years (over €100 billion).

Banking regulator finds 60 out of 267 banks have insufficient US dollar funding to cover exposures in the currency

The European Union signaled its readiness to respond to the new 20% tariffs imposed by the United States on European products. However, European Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic is set to engage in talks with his US counterparts on Friday in an attempt to de-escalate the situation.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described U.S. Donald Trump's universal tariffs as a major blow to the world economy and said the European Union was prepared to respond with countermeasures if talks with Washington failed.

High-level political engagement has been robust in recent years, with top EU officials visiting the region. Among the latest are High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission Kaja Kallas, and EU Commissioner for International Partnerships Josef Sikela.

The Samarkand summit marks a watershed moment in EU-Central Asia relations at a time when the international order is undergoing a fundamental realignment.

Central Asia summit, to be held on April 3-4 in the Uzbek city of Samarkand, is seen by some observers as a potential watershed moment, which can establish Brussels’ Global Gateway strategy as a genuine competitor to China’s Belt and Road Initiative.

ASTANA – Samarkand will host the European Union – Central Asia summit on April 3-4, signaling a robust political commitment from both regions to a deeper and stronger partnership. For the first time, the summit will convene Central Asian leaders, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa.