EU announces €12 billion investment package for Central Asia

Samarkand is hosting the first “Central Asia–European Union” summit from April 3 to 4. During the event, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev called for a comprehensive partnership and cooperation agreement between the two regions.

On April 4, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced a €12 billion investment package for Central Asia under the EU’s Global Gateway initiative.

In her speech, the Commission President identified four key areas of cooperation between the regions: the Trans-Caspian Corridor, critical raw materials, green energy, and digital connectivity.

“To accelerate progress, I am proud to announce today the €12 billion Global Gateway investment package. It will combine investments from our Union and member states,” von der Leyen stated.

She emphasized this as a “Team Europe approach,” noting that the investment package will mark the beginning of a new series of projects in Central Asia. “This is truly the start of a new era in our ancient friendship,” she added.

The €12 billion package will be distributed across four priority areas: transport (€3 billion), critical minerals (€2.5 billion), hydropower and climate (€6.4 billion), and satellite internet (€100 million).

In addition, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is developing a separate project pipeline worth approximately €7–8 billion through 2027, targeting critical minerals and renewable energy.

The European Investment Bank (EIB) is also preparing to sign four memorandums of understanding with Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan. The bank plans to allocate €365 million to support sustainable transport, water management, and climate resilience initiatives.