As Central Asia deals with the economic uncertainty caused by Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine and the deteriorating situation in Afghanistan, Leo Docherty in his role as Minister for Europe, visited Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan to reinforce the UK's support for the region as a close and valued partner.
On a three legged visit to the region, Leo promoted British expertise to support the region’s sustainable economic development and welcomed the ongoing political reforms taking place. Central Asia is a region is of huge strategic importance straddling Europe, Asia and the Middle East and bordering Russia, China and Iran.
Leo's visit to Kyrgyzstan was the most senior visit by a UK official to Kyrgyzstan in more than a decade. Leo met senior members of the government, including the foreign minister and deputy prime minister, reaffirming the UK’s commitment to boosting energy security, climate cooperation and trade ties, whilst discussing emerging opportunities for British businesses.
As part of the visit, Leo toured the Chunkurchak Mountain Gorge on horseback, showcasing a UK-supported business, Kyrgyz Twins Adventures. The tour company focuses on making the Kyrgyz tourism sector more inclusive for people with disabilities, and has received support from the UK’s Enterprise and Innovation Programme that helps to promote a stronger, diversified and more inclusive private sector in the region.
In Almaty, Kazakhstan’s business capital, Leo built on the Foreign Secretary’s visit to Astana in March by discussing opportunities for co-operation on critical minerals, clean technology, and agriculture.
Leo met with ministers from the Kazakhstan government to discuss the consistent support the nation has shown for Ukraine's territorial integrity. In addition, there were meetings held with civil society groups to discuss reforms and talks of the annual UK-Kazakhstan Strategic Dialogue set to take place later this year in autumn.
Wrapping up in Uzbekistan, Leo met with counterparts in the Foreign and Trade Ministries to strengthen defence and trade ties, discussing co-operation on counter terrorism and security, and reaffirming UK support for Uzbekistan’s accession to the World Trade Organization.
Commenting, Leo said:
"Few countries feel the impact of global security changes more than Central Asian States, from the deteriorating situation in Afghanistan to economic uncertainty caused by Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine.
"The UK, as a close strategic partner, is committed to supporting political reforms and sustainable economic development for the region’s long-term stability and prosperity."