The European Parliament is calling for closer collaboration with Central Asian states. The EU now has the opportunity to „expand its relations with Central Asia and play a greater role in the region“, emphasized European Parliament members in a resolution adopted with a large majority on Wednesday. Brussels should take advantage of the opportunity to „promote mutually beneficial cooperation and offer Central Asia a partnership“, not least to counteract the influence of China and Russia in the region. A first summit meeting between representatives of the EU and Central Asia is reportedly scheduled for 2024.