The first Interparliamentary Forum of Central Asia and the European Union was held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.

Mavsuma Muini, deputy chairperson of the Majlisi namoyandagon Majlisi Oli of the Republic of Tajikistan, took part in the forum, Khovar news agency reported, citing the Majlisi Namoyandagon.

Participants noted that in recent years Central Asia has become an important platform for strategic dialogue, with ties between the region and the European Union expanding on the basis of shared interests and growing trust. The Roadmap for Strengthening Ties between Central Asia and the EU was highlighted as a practical framework for deepening cooperation across political, security, diplomatic, economic, trade, energy and people-to-people sectors.

Muini expressed optimism about the prospects for cooperation, including stronger interparliamentary engagement.

She said cooperation in education, health care, rural development, energy, environmental protection and water resources, border management, combating drug trafficking and crime, the rule of law, and transport and communications remains important.

Efforts to expand access for young people to EU education programs — including Erasmus+, Horizon Europe and the Marie Skłodowska-Curie program — were cited as key to strengthening ties. Interest was also expressed in closer cooperation with the European Education Area, including recognition of qualifications and diplomas, expanded language learning and lifelong education opportunities.

Participants underscored that the security of Central Asia and Europe is closely linked. They pointed to ongoing cooperation through programs such as the Border Management Assistance Program for Central Asia and the Central Asia Drug Action Program, and stressed the need to strengthen their practical implementation in light of the current regional security environment.

Speakers said interparliamentary cooperation could play an important role in implementing agreements reached at the forum and in strengthening interregional partnerships.

The forum included three sessions focused on political dialogue, the role of parliamentary diplomacy in building trust and sustainable partnerships, and the contribution of parliaments to democratic institutions, human rights and digital governance.

Lawmakers from European countries and Central Asia, along with international experts and media representatives, attended the forum.

Participants adopted a joint statement at the conclusion of the meeting.