DUSHANBE, 18.11.2020 (NIAT Khovar) – Yesterday, Minister of Foreign Sirojiddin Muhriddin took part in the 16th EU-Central Asia Ministerial Meeting.

The meeting focused on key aspects of the partnership between the EU and Central Asia, in particular in the political, economic, human rights areas, mitigating the consequences of COVID-19 and joint efforts to address today’s challenges.

Delegations also discussed effects of climate change and environmental issues, as well as international and regional problems.

In his speech, Muhriddin spoke about the measures to prevent the consequences of COVID-19, the importance of implementing joint programs to overcome the current crisis and mobilizing additional resources to eliminate its consequences under the new European Strategy for Central Asia and the Multi-Year Indicative Program 2021-2027.

EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell stressed the importance of EU multilateral engagements and programs in mitigating the impact of COVID-19 on the economic and social sectors of Central Asia, as well as in expanding relations and implementing joint initiatives in priority interregional areas.