On March 31, 2026, the first inter-parliamentary forum «Central Asia - European Union» was held in Samarkand with the participation of parliamentarians from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, members of the European Parliament, as well as representatives of international organizations and the diplomatic corps.

Kazakhstan was represented by the Chairperson of the Committee on International Affairs, Defense and Security of the Mazhilis of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Aigul Kuspan, and the Consul General of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Samarkand, Talgat Sharipov.

The forum has become a significant dialogue platform for the systematic development of parliamentary diplomacy and the expansion of practical cooperation between the countries of Central Asia and the European Union.

The discussion focused on developing political dialogue, strengthening the role of parliamentary diplomacy, and implementing the agreements reached at the «Central Asia - European Union» Summit in Samarkand in April 2025.

The Forum also featured a meaningful exchange of views on issues of economic connectivity, sustainable growth, and «green» transformation, including the expansion of transport and logistics routes, the development of a «green» economy, and the intensification of investment cooperation.

Particular attention was paid to issues of the rule of law, digital transformation and inclusive governance, including ensuring human rights, strengthening security in the digital space and legal regulation of modern technologies.

Following the Forum, a Joint Statement was adopted, reflecting the parties' shared commitment to strengthening interregional cooperation. The document enshrines the parties' intention to intensify dialogue, maintain regular contacts, and facilitate the implementation of joint initiatives aimed at ensuring stability, security, and prosperity in the region.

On the sidelines of the Forum, a bilateral meeting was held between Aigul Kuspan, Chairperson of the Committee on International Affairs, Defense, and Security of the Majilis of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and Sodiq Safoyev, Deputy Chairperson of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan. The meeting focused on the current state and prospects for the development of Kazakh-Uzbek cooperation in the fields of politics, economics, and interparliamentary relations.

Overall, the forum in Samarkand confirmed the high level of interest of all participants in the further development of partnership between Central Asia and the European Union, and also gave new impetus to the development of the parliamentary dimension of interregional cooperation.

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-samarkand/press/news/details/1194078?lang=kk