In the post-9/11 period, Central Asia has assumed greater significance for the European Union (EU). Since 2007, the EU has adopted a proactive approach towards the region and sought to promote political and economic stability through democracy and rule of law. At the same time, it wants to secure the flow of energy from Central Asia and balance the influence of big powers like Russia and China. Analyzing these developments, the article argues that, in the coming years, the EU will adopt a more proactive role in the region.
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