In a recent interview conducted on January 17 at the European Union Delegation's headquarters in Uzbekistan, Margaritis Schinas, Vice-President of the European Commission, delved into the European Union's strategies for resource management and trade. The discussion primarily centered around the intricate landscape of rare earth elements in Central Asia. Schinas offered valuable insights into the EU's approach, underscoring the crucial significance of critical raw materials, cooperation, and connectivity as foundational pillars in nurturing a strong and mutually beneficial relationship with nations in Central Asia.

Critical Raw Materials as a Win-Win Partnership

As per Vice-President Schinas, the cooperation in critical raw materials can serve as a pivotal element in the new approach between the EU and Central Asia. He highlighted the potential for a win-win partnership, with countries like Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and others benefiting from European investment and technology. In return, the European Union would secure access to these critical raw materials, fostering a mutually beneficial relationship.

“Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and others in Central Asia would benefit greatly from investment, from European investment and European technology in making better use of the critical raw material. And we in the European Union, we could use this partnership not only to cater for our development needs but also as a cement this new partnership,” Schinas noted.

Schinas expressed his satisfaction with the genuine interest shown by Central Asian interlocutors in engaging with Europe on critical raw materials. He views this as a positive development that could solidify a robust partnership for future cooperation.

Addressing Investor Concerns

When questioned about investor concerns regarding stability in the region, Schinas acknowledged that investors ultimately make their decisions. However, he pointed out that the forecasts for GDP growth in Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan have been stable, with projected growth rates around 5%. Schinas believes that these positive indicators, combined with the region's regulatory environment, should instill confidence in potential investors.

He specifically highlighted Uzbekistan's achievements, such as access to the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP+) and an enhanced partnership and cooperation agreement. These factors, along with the prospect of Uzbekistan joining the World Trade Organization (WTO), are seen as positive signs that can help allay investors' doubts.

EU's Global Position and Complex Interdependence

Schinas addressed the broader context of global competitiveness, acknowledging the complex and interdependent nature of the world. Critical raw materials are part of the global race for competitiveness, along with factors like energy, talent, and cleantech. However, he stressed that the EU's engagement with Central Asia should not be perceived as a zero-sum game.

He highlighted that the EU is universally recognized as a force for good and engages positively with international partners. The pursuit of critical raw materials in Central Asia, he emphasized, does not mean Europe is sacrificing opportunities elsewhere. Central Asia, according to Schinas, is a privileged partner for the EU—a stable, growing, and trustworthy region that aligns with the Union's positive international engagement.

About Margaritis Schinas: Vice-President of the European Commission

Margaritis Schinas, of Greek nationality, has an impressive career within the European Commission. Holding the position of Vice-President for Promoting our European Way of Life since 2019, he has been a key figure in coordinating the Commission's work on a New Pact on Migration and Asylum, ensuring coherence in the external and internal dimensions of migration.

Schinas has also played a vital role in developing pathways to legal migration for integration into the job market and society, as well as coordinating the Commission's efforts in building a European Security Union. His responsibilities extend to strengthening prevention, detection, and response measures to hybrid threats and leading the Commission's dialogue on inclusion and building a genuine Union of equality and diversity.

With a wealth of experience dating back to his diplomatic roles and academic achievements, Margaritis Schinas stands at the forefront of shaping EU policies on migration, security, education, and cultural integration.

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