Source · Select Committees · Foreign Affairs Committee
Recommendation 2
2
Accepted
Paragraph: 18
Develop tailored engagement approaches for Central Asian states respecting their independence and sovereignty
Recommendation
All five Central Asian states are rightly proud of their distinct cultural heritages and histories. Each has unique assets and strengths and fiercely defends its sovereignty. It is important that the UK Government both respects and encourages the independence of the Central Asian countries from their dominating neighbours. The Government should develop tailored approaches to engagement for each one. However, it is also important that the Government remains realistic about the extent to which countries are able to decouple from Russia at the current time and the varying levels of interest in doing so.
Government Response Summary
The government agrees and states they have already tailored approaches and re-energised relationships with Central Asian states, committing to further deepen bilateral relationships in 2024.
Paragraph Reference:
18
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
Agree. We have re-energised bilateral relationships with each of the five Central Asian states, including through partnerships in areas of mutual benefit, increased Ministerial engagement and formal dialogues. We have tailored approaches to each country, which are reviewed regularly. Further deepening of bilateral relationships is a priority for 2024. Our goal is to support a sovereign, resilient and prosperous Central Asian region, better able to manage the political, security, social and economic challenges each country faces. This includes support for Central Asian states’ efforts to diversify their political and economic relationships and balance pressures of different kinds from their larger neighbours. Central Asian leaders have made clear the importance they place on the United Nations Charter and on respect for states’ sovereignty and territorial integrity.