The European Union can bolster Central Asia's stability, prosperity, and regional cooperation through strategic efforts in three key sectors, writes the Center for Progressive Reforms. These initiatives aim to address geopolitical challenges and harness the potential for cooperation, particularly in the context of the shift to a "green" economy, amid global trends and changes in the region.
Integrated Water Management
The EU plans to improve water management in Central Asia to ensure sustainable and equitable access to this vital resource. The region's interconnected transboundary rivers, like the Amudarya and Syrdarya, have historically fueled a complex system of energy-for-water trade. This initiative seeks to mitigate the consequences of excessive water consumption, enhance water-use efficiency, and reduce the risk of water disputes among Central Asian states. The EU aims to promote integrated water management, governance strengthening, and enhanced transparency in the allocation of water resources. Successful outcomes will also foster socio-economic development in the region.
Renewable Energy Promotion
The EU endeavors to advance the development and utilization of renewable energy sources in Central Asia. The region possesses significant untapped renewable energy potential, including small hydropower, solar, wind, and geothermal resources. The EU can contribute to the transition to renewable energy, thus reducing dependence on fossil fuels and enhancing energy security. By encouraging investment, technology adoption, and energy efficiency measures, the EU can play a pivotal role in helping Central Asia meet its rising energy demands while decarbonizing the energy sector.
Climate-Friendly Agriculture
Central Asia faces climate change-related challenges, such as rising temperatures, erratic weather patterns, shifting agricultural boundaries, and more frequent extreme weather events. The EU can support the adoption of climate-friendly agricultural policies and practices, assist in the development of national action plans, and provide capacity-building initiatives. Climate-friendly investments, agro-ecological practices, and efficient irrigation technology can help mitigate and adapt to climate change, improve soil health, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and bolster agricultural sustainability in the region.
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