BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 28. The European
Investment Bank (EIB) is expanding its efforts in Central Asia,
aligning its operations with European Union policy priorities under
the Global Gateway strategy, EIB Vice-President Kyriacos Kakouris
told Trend in an
exclusive interview.
“As the financial arm of the EU, the EIB aligns its operations
with EU policy priorities. In Central Asia, these priorities are
clearly defined under the Global Gateway strategy, with a strong
focus on digital connectivity, sustainable transport, critical raw
materials, water, energy, and climate resilience,” Kakouris
said.
A recent initiative in digital connectivity highlights this
approach. “A recent example is our 60 million euro financial
package announced in March, supporting digital access through a
partnership with SES, a European satellite provider. This
initiative aims to deliver broadband internet to remote rural areas
across Central Asia, improving digital inclusion for millions of
people,” he noted.
Looking ahead, Kakouris said the bank’s strategic priorities
include advancing the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor to
strengthen regional connectivity and trade links with Europe, as
well as scaling up investments in renewable energy, including
solar, wind, and hydropower, alongside water management and climate
adaptation.
To facilitate these projects, the EIB combines its loans with EU
grants, guarantees, and technical assistance. “This blended finance
approach helps reduce project risk, accelerate preparation
timelines, and ensure alignment with EU environmental and social
standards,” Kakouris explained.
He added that the bank is actively collaborating with
governments, local development banks, and private sector partners
across Central Asia to identify and co-finance high-impact,
sustainable infrastructure projects. “Our aim is to deliver
long-term benefits for people and the planet,” he concluded.
