EU approves new Special representative for Central Asia

It was announced by Federica Mogherini, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. "The appointment of Peter Burian will show the EU's continued cooperation with Central Asia, ensuring strong presence in our engagement on key issues of mutual interest including the rule of law, security, energy, water, education and human rights. Central Asia is a strategic area," Federica Mogherini said. She added that the EU also intends to continue to support the transition of neighbouring countries such as Afghanistan, where much remains to be done in securing the democratic path. Peter Burian is currently State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of the Slovak Republic. He is a former ambassador of the Slovak Republic to NATO, to the United States and to the United Nations. Mr Burian takes over in the role of EUSR from Janos Herman who was appointed Special Envoy to the region in April 2014.