EU and Uzbekistan Formalize Enhanced Cooperation Agreement in Brussels

The European Union and Uzbekistan formalized a significant Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (EPCA) in Brussels on October 24, 2025. This pivotal accord establishes a robust framework intended to substantially deepen the strategic alignment and collaboration between the two entities across several vital contemporary sectors.

The core of the newly signed EPCA centers on elevating partnership and expanding joint efforts in critical domains. These include cybersecurity, counter-terrorism operations, stringent border protection protocols, and the proactive prevention of hybrid threats. Beyond immediate security concerns, the agreement includes structured cooperation aimed at securing the supply of critical raw materials essential for fueling the global green and digital transitions. This initiative directly builds upon a Memorandum of Understanding concerning these resources that was established in 2024.

Discussions during the signing ceremony also addressed advancing the EU's 'Global Gateway' infrastructure initiatives and bolstering the Trans-Caspian transport corridor, which are vital arteries for enhancing regional connectivity and trade flows. European Council President António Costa expressed strong optimism regarding the deepening ties with the broader Central Asian region, positioning the EPCA as a crucial progression following the high-level EU-Central Asia Summit held in Samarkand on April 4, 2025. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen underscored the strategic imperative of Central Asia's resource wealth, noting its indispensable role in the future trajectory of the global energy transition.

The agreement implicitly confirms a shared commitment to international law, aiming to fortify peace, stability, and security through effective multilateral engagement. It establishes a new legal bedrock for conflict prevention, crisis management, regional stabilization, and the control of sensitive exports. The focus on securing raw materials—Central Asia possesses significant reserves of materials like cobalt and copper—and infrastructure development underscores a strategic pivot toward supply chain diversification and enhanced logistical integration in the current geopolitical landscape, serving to solidify the EU-Uzbekistan relationship.

The EPCA is set to enter into force following the necessary ratification processes by both parties, which are anticipated over the coming months, thereby translating high-level commitment into actionable governance.