European Investment Bank Plans to Expand Its Activities in Central Asia in 2026

The European Investment Bank (EIB) considers 2025 a significant milestone in the European Union’s relations with Central Asian countries and plans to strengthen its activities in the region in 2026. This was stated by Edwardas Bumšteinas, Head of the EIB’s regional division, according to Trend news agency.

According to him, in 2025 the bank expanded financial support in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. These funds were directed toward sustainable development, road construction and other infrastructure projects, development of digital systems, and strengthening measures to combat climate change. The projects are being implemented within the framework of the European Union’s “Global Gateway” initiative.

Edwardas Bumšteinas also noted that the European Investment Bank has made progress in negotiations with Turkmenistan on a framework agreement, which would enable the bank to operate in the country. In addition, the bank plans to open its first regional office in Tashkent in 2026.

The European Investment Bank emphasizes that Central Asia is of great importance to the European Union in terms of connectivity, energy security, and climate change issues.

The European Investment Bank was established in 1958 and is headquartered in Luxembourg. As the financial institution of the European Union, it supports not only EU member states but also other countries by providing long-term financing for projects aimed at sustainable economic development, integration, and infrastructure development.