EPCA and the New Geopolitical Architecture of Central Asia: Expert Perspectives
The signing of the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (EPCA) between Uzbekistan and the European Union has sparked extensive discussions among political scientists and international relations experts.
According to them, this document 1) marks a new stage in cooperation between Tashkent and Brussels; and 2) reflects profound changes in the regional and global architecture of security and the economy.
M. Imomov:
“The signing of the EPCA shows that Uzbekistan has consolidated its ‘third direction’ in foreign policy — the European vector. This should not be seen as a turn toward the West, but rather as the formation of a system aimed at maintaining a balance of interests. At a time when the international order is becoming increasingly multipolar, official Tashkent is steadily developing cooperation with the European Union as a logical continuation of its already established relations with Russia and China.”
A. Fayzullozoda:
“In essence, the EPCA is Uzbekistan’s strategic response to the ongoing global geoeconomic transformations. Amid sanctions, an energy crisis, and competition for transport routes, Tashkent is pursuing a policy of diversifying partnerships. The agreement with the European Union opens access to new technologies, green investments, and sustainable supply chains.”
A. Qodirov:
“The EPCA clearly demonstrates Uzbekistan’s aspiration to maintain balance among the world’s major centers of power. Strengthening the European direction is a pragmatic response to the region’s excessive dependence on eastern economies — primarily Russia and China. At the same time, Brussels, having lost part of its leverage in Eastern Europe, now views Central Asia as a new ‘belt of strategic stability.’ For the EU, this represents an opportunity to regain geopolitical agency, and for Tashkent — a chance to consolidate its unique position between East and West on an institutional basis.”
K. Ametov:
“The agreement signed in Brussels further consolidates Uzbekistan’s status as a key transit and investment hub in the Eurasian space. The EPCA effectively transforms the country into a ‘corridor of stability’ between Europe and Asia. President Mirziyoyev is consistently shaping a new model of Eurasian diplomacy — open, pragmatic, and free from ideological pressure. In the future, the EPCA could serve as the legal and economic foundation for a trilateral format — EU–Central Asia–South Asia — uniting transport, energy, and technological initiatives.”
In conclusion, experts view the signing of the EPCA not merely as a diplomatic gesture, but as a strategic move reshaping the configuration of power across Eurasia. Upholding the principles of openness and multi-vector diplomacy, Uzbekistan is confidently strengthening its position as Europe’s reliable partner in Central Asia and a promoter of sustainable development and balanced integration.
Strategic Focus: Central Asia
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