EU energy diplomacy: The Central Asian vector

Turdumambet Barpybaev

EU energy diplomacy: The Central Asian vector

Turdumambet Barpybaev

Abstract

This study gains particular importance in the context of global geopolitical challenges to energy security and the need to diversify energy sources in Europe. The purpose of this study was to provide a comprehensive analysis of the EU’s energy diplomacy in the Central Asian region. The study employed the methods of analysis, synthesis, systematisa- tion, comparative studies, statistical analysis, and generalisation. The study found that Central Asian countries, specifi- cally Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, have considerable hydrocarbon reserves and strong renewable energy development potential, making them key partners for the EU in ensuring energy security and diversifying energy sources. The study found that the EU’s energy diplomacy in Central Asia is implemented through a range of bilateral and multilat- eral mechanisms, but faces serious challenges, such as geopolitical competition, underdeveloped infrastructure, political instability, and imperfect legal regulation of the energy sector in the region. Based on these findings, recommendations were developed to strengthen strategic partnerships, intensify investment activities, harmonise legal regulation and im- plement international standards, as well as develop renewable energy and improve energy efficiency within the framework of EU cooperation with Central Asian partners. The practical significance of this study lies in the fact that its findings and recommendations can be used to improve the EU’s energy strategy, develop effective mechanisms for cooperation with Central Asian countries and build a mutually beneficial partnership in the energy sector, which will contribute to strength- ening energy security, sustainable development, and prosperity of both Europe and Central Asia in the long term

Keywords

diversification of supply; hydrocarbon resources; strategic partnership; geopolitical challenges; investment activity; legal regulation

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Suggested citation

Barpybaev, T. (2024). EU energy diplomacy: The Central Asian vector. Foreign Affairs, 34(2), 71-80. https://doi.org/10.46493/2663-2675.34(2).2024.71