During the conference, the Ministers discussed regional security issues, energy, water and environment, as well as the global economic and financial crisis.

“We are pleased to learn that the Central Asian countries are taking measures to create jobs for their returning citizens and provide social protection for those who have become unemployed. The EU stands ready to assist their efforts”, Foreign Minister Carl Bildt said.

The meeting highlighted regional security challenges, including border management, and the threats of trafficking and extremism. In this context, the important role of Central Asia in international efforts toward stabilising Afghanistan was stressed. The importance of respect for human rights and rule of law for social stability and economic development was also underlined.

At the meeting, the Ministers discussed lessons to be learnt from the economic crisis, including the need for promoting reforms and the importance of closer integration with the international trade system.

The meeting also highlighted the need for reinforced regional cooperation on environmental issues, including water and energy resources management and the effects of climate change.