Brussels, 16/09/2009 (Agence Europe) - Energy, the economic crisis, the environment, management of water resources and regional security were the main focuses of discussion at the EU-Central Asia ministerial conference in Brussels on Tuesday 15 September. The European delegation which met the foreign ministers of Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Kirghizstan, Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan was led by Carl Bildt (Swedish Presidency), High Representative for the CFSP Javier Solana, Commissioner Olli Rehn and EU Special Representative for Central Asia Pierre Morel. Member states were represented by their foreign ministers, their deputies or by secretaries of state. The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) was represented by its President Thomas Mirow, and the European Investment Bank (EIB) by its Vice-President Eva Srejber. The meeting highlighted the security challenges facing the Central Asia region, particularly in tackling people trafficking and extremism, a press release states. The crucial role of the countries of the Central Asia region in stabilising Afghanistan was also highlighted. The EU also stressed the need for reinforced regional cooperation on environmental issues, including water and energy resources and the effects of climate change. “The importance of respect for human rights and the rule of law for social security and economic development was also underlined,” the press release added. (H.B./transl.rt)