Following our recent visit to Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, we, the Ambassadors of France, Germany, Britain and the United States to the OSCE, are more determined than ever to provide comprehensive support for integrated security in Central Asia.
Today, we all face a serious threat to global security as a result of Russian aggression against Ukraine. Such a move undermines the fundamental principles of European and Eurasian security and has global implications for food and energy security, as well as destabilizing economic consequences for neighboring countries. Our countries support the principles of the OSCE and the rules-based international system, including territorial integrity, sovereignty, non-use of force and inviolability of borders. We call on Russia to stop this war and completely withdraw its troops from Ukraine.
We are closely following developments in other parts of the OSCE region. We recognize that there are challenges, in particular due to the crisis in Afghanistan, that pose a threat to regional stability. Various tools are being used in response, including strengthening border controls, countering terrorism, and countering violent extremism. OSCE activities can help address vulnerabilities and support regional connectivity and development. We thank our partners in Central Asia for their continued work and support on issues related to Afghanistan.
OSCE missions in all countries of Central Asia bring real value through expertise, advocacy, convening conflict groups and interaction at all levels throughout the country.
We made several observations during our trip. First, we recognize the importance of working together on security threats – many of the threats we face are common and our countries are ready to cooperate, including using the tools provided by the OSCE.
Secondly, we recognize the importance of closer interaction between the countries of Central Asia to ensure economic security. The OSCE plays an important role in the development of trade, transport and digital technologies. Prosperity, built on interaction and cooperation among peaceful nations, is critical to sustainable development. Economic security is strengthened through a strong approach to fighting corruption, good governance, the rule of law, and economic diversification.
Thirdly, we see the importance of expanding regional cooperation on climate and energy issues, including water management and the transition to green energy. The climate crisis is a real threat to our future. The OSCE can play an important role in water diplomacy and water management. As climate change exacerbates water scarcity, transboundary cooperation will become increasingly important. The OSCE is already playing a supporting role in enhancing bilateral and regional cooperation in these areas, including in the field of sustainable energy production. The OSCE is also doing important work to protect critical energy infrastructure and enhance energy security in Central Asia.
Finally, freedom of the media, open and fair elections, and guarantees of freedom of expression throughout the OSCE region contribute to security. Human security and gender equality are a key element of homeland security, regional security and security throughout the OSCE region. The OSCE can support critical reforms through its field missions, the ODIHR, the Representatives on Freedom of the Media, the High Commissioner on National Minorities and the work of the Secretariat departments.
We thank our partners in Central Asia for the warm welcome during our visit to the region. Central Asia is an important region. We are ready to cooperate with you on a number of issues of ensuring comprehensive security, including through the OSCE.
Ambassador Christine Fages, Permanent Representative of the French Delegation to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe
Ambassador Geza Breutigam, Permanent Representative of the Federal Republic of Germany to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe
Ambassador Neil Bush, UK Permanent Representative to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe
Ambassador Michael Carpenter, Permanent Representative of the United States of America to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe
