FM Saidov, EU’s new special envoy discuss expanding regional cooperation

“We are pleased to welcome H.E. Eduards Stiprais, the EU Special Representative for Central Asia, to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan today,” the minister wrote on his official Telegram channel. “The recent Central Asia–European Union Summit in Samarkand once again highlighted the tremendous potential of our partnership, which we can harness for the benefit of people in both regions.”

During the meeting, the two sides discussed all aspects of their dynamically evolving relationship — from education to green energy — as well as current regional and global issues. Both parties expressed a shared commitment to further expanding the scope of cooperation.

Eduards Stiprais is an experienced Latvian diplomat. He has previously served as Latvia’s Permanent Representative to the European Union and as the Political Director and Deputy State Secretary at the Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. From 2016 to 2020, he headed the EU Delegation (Embassy) in Uzbekistan.

On March 1, 2025, Stiprais succeeded Terhi Hakala, who held the position of EU Special Representative for Central Asia from 2021 until the end of 2024.

The new EU Special Representative’s primary mandate is to strengthen relations with Central Asian countries based on shared values, promote regional stability and cooperation, and support democracy, the rule of law, good governance, and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.