What role should the EU play in Central Asia?

Breakfast debate with Ambassadeur Pierre Morel, special representative of the European Union for Central Asia, Oksana Antonenko, Senior Fellow, IISS (International Institute for Strategic Studies) and Didier Chaudet, Research Fellow, Russia/NIS Center, Ifri.
Chairman : Thomas Gomart, Director, Russia/NIS Center

With the declaration of a European strategy for Central Asia in June 2007, the EU clearly demonstrated its interest in this vital region. France is keen to accelerate the implementation of this strategy during its EU presidency. As a result, the first EU/Central Asia ministerial forum, dedicated to security questions, will be held on 18 September 2008. In the lead up to this important meeting, Ifri offers an overview of current relations and a debate upon the EU's means and aims in the region.