On 10 July, the European Union and Central Asian countries convened for their first Counterterrorism Dialogue in Dushanbe, Tajikistan.

The EU met with representatives from Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan to discuss a wide range of counterterrorism issues, including assessments on the terrorist threat.

They also explored areas of concrete cooperation, including on the fight against radicalisation; the prosecution, rehabilitation and reintegration of returnees; and actions against violent online propaganda.

EU and Central Asian partners also spoke about cooperation with third countries including in multilateral fora.

The EU recalled the importance of anchoring counterterrorism measures in the rule of law and respect of human rights.

The EU welcomes the rich and constructive discussion with the Central Asian countries. The next Dialogue will be held in Brussels.