State Secretary for European Affairs Andreja Metelko-Zgombić 31 October 2019 held talks with the EU Special Representative for Central Asia, Peter Burian.
Metelko-Zgombić underscored that the new EU Strategy on Central Asia of June this year was a timely document, expressing hope that it would be implemented to the satisfaction of both the EU and the five Central Asian countries. She underlined the important role Burian had played in its drafting. She also reflected on Croatia’s EU chairmanship priorities, published the day before.
Burian stressed the importance of cooperation with Central Asia, notably in the areas of energy and economic development, connection, climate and environmental issues, and security. Given the uneven economic development and underdeveloped administrative capacities, the EU should cooperate with Central Asian partners in the areas of development and implementation of international economic rules and standards, as well as in creating a more attractive investment climate.
During a meeting with Assistant Minister Vice Skračić, Burian presented some of the activities the EU organize in cooperation with Central Asia. The two officials discussed the possibilities of Croatia’s engagement in said area during its EU chairmanship.