Conclusion: A new learning curve and new economic relations

The European Union has a strong interest in fostering sustainable growth in the central Asian economies, one dimension being to underpin its future energy security. This means supporting reforms that can further strengthen economic institutions, catalyze higher levels of FDI outside the energy sector, promote more broadly based economic growth, and promote financial stability. The EU thus needs to encourage policies that facilitate trade, including notably WTO membership; support institution-building, with a special emphasis on the financial sector; and foster greater regional co-operation (but not preferential regional trade). These are indeed areas in which the EU has developed a strong capacity for assistance during its engagement in Eastern Europe. The EU's policy agenda for central Asia suggests a shift of focus consistent with economic priorities along these lines.