Representatives from Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Mongolia, Pakistan, and Uzbekistan gathered on October 13–14, 2025 in Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic, for the 24th Strategic Coordination Meeting of National Focal Points for Central Asia. Organized under the European Union’s Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Risk Mitigation Centres of Excellence Initiative (EU CBRN CoE), the meeting underscored the crucial role of regional cooperation in strengthening prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery mechanisms against CBRN risks.

The consultation provided an opportunity for comprehensive updates on ongoing CBRN-related projects and collaborative activities across the region. Participants engaged in in-depth discussions to identify national priorities and areas for enhanced regional cooperation, with a particular focus on strengthening resources and technical capacities. Discussions also addressed preparedness for CBRN risks through the practical application of knowledge and skills during field and tabletop exercises conducted at the national and regional levels, within the framework of EU CBRN CoE Project 106 “Tabletop and Field Exercises, Simulations and Training for CBRN Risk Mitigation”.

As part of the meeting, participants also met with the team of experts leading EU CBRN CoE Project 109 “Mitigation of Risks of Zoonotic Diseases Arising as a Result of Climate Change in Central Asia.” CBRN National Focal Points also explored opportunities and priority areas for cooperation in addressing zoonotic risks and surveillance capacities across the region. 

The 24th Regional Strategic Coordination Meeting served as a key platform for strengthening partnerships and advancing joint efforts, and reinforcing regional resilience toward a safer and more secure Central Asia.