Ambassador Sapar Palvanov joined the The Brussels Times discussion on port security and the strategic role of European ports

A new session of the “Ambassador Insider Series”, organised by The Brussels Times, was held in Brussels under the theme “Port Security, Geopolitics and the Strategic Role of European Ports.” The event brought together ambassadors and senior diplomatic representatives for a focused exchange on the growing role of ports in Europe’s economic, transport and security landscape.

The discussion was attended by Sapar Palvanov, Ambassador of Turkmenistan to the Kingdom of Belgium and Head of the Mission of Turkmenistan to the European Union.

The session featured Tom Monballiu, Global Partnerships Director at the Port of Antwerp-Bruges, and Mihai Sebastian Chihaia, Policy Analyst at the European Policy Centre, who shared their perspectives on how modern ports are increasingly positioned at the intersection of trade, infrastructure, security, energy transition and geopolitics.

Participants discussed the strategic importance of European ports in strengthening supply chain resilience, advancing international connectivity, enhancing customs cooperation and ensuring reliable trade flows. Particular attention was given to maritime security, the impact of global geopolitical tensions on trade routes and the role of ports as critical infrastructure within Europe’s broader economic and strategic framework.

It was also noted that major European ports, such as the Port of Antwerp-Bruges, contribute not only to logistics and commerce, but also to wider policy priorities, including economic competitiveness, resilience, sustainability and cooperation with international partners.

The participation of the Ambassador of Turkmenistan in this discussion reflects Turkmenistan’s interest in advancing transport connectivity, strengthening international cooperation in logistics and port infrastructure, and promoting secure trade routes between Europe and Central Asia.

At the conclusion of the session, participants underlined the importance of coordination among public authorities, port operators, the business community and diplomatic stakeholders in addressing emerging risks, ensuring the security of port infrastructure and maintaining resilient international trade flows.