Scholz Foster Economic Ties in Central Asia

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz is on a mission to strengthen economic relationships in Central Asia. During his visit to Uzbekistan, Scholz focused on attracting skilled workers and securing raw materials for German companies. A newly signed migration partnership aims to facilitate the legal immigration of Uzbek specialists to Germany. Scholz emphasized that these professionals are warmly welcomed, and he also underlined the potential for mutual economic benefits through resource exploitation in Uzbekistan.

The Eastern Committee of the German Economy highlighted the strategic importance of Central Asia for the energy transition. The region is rich in valuable resources and offers ideal conditions for renewable energy production. Kazakhstan, already a key oil supplier, is poised to play a critical role in green hydrogen supply for European industries. German companies are actively implementing projects, and advanced German technologies can help reduce energy intensity in Central Asia through investments in modern power plants and energy-efficient industrial facilities.

Scholz's journey began in Samarkand, where he met Uzbekistan's political leaders and signed the migration agreement. This pact is expected to create more opportunities for Uzbek professionals to migrate legally to Germany while ensuring the repatriation of Uzbek citizens without residence permits. The visit also touches on potential deportations to Afghanistan via Uzbekistan.

Scholz will continue his tour in Kazakhstan, aiming to deepen economic ties and expand oil supplies to offset reduced Russian deliveries. Kazakhstan's President Tokayev hopes for peace in Ukraine, despite Russia's military dominance. Scholz's visit underscores the growing geopolitical significance of Central Asia amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, positioning the region as a reliable partner and promising market for the EU and Germany.