Turkmen Delegation Participates in the EU–Central Asia High-Level Political and Security Dialogue

A Turkmen delegation headed by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Ahmet Gurbanov participated in the 13th meeting of the European Union – Central Asia High-Level Political and Security Dialogue, held in Brussels.

Diplomats of the Central Asian countries and the European Union discussed further strengthening cooperation in the areas of regional security and resilience, the practical implementation of the agreements reached at the Central Asia – European Union Summit, and progress in implementing the Joint Roadmap for Deepening Ties between the two regions.

Particular attention was given to addressing contemporary challenges and threats, strengthening border security, combating illicit drug trafficking, developing regional cooperation on water issues and transport connectivity, as well as enhancing cooperation in cybersecurity and countering disinformation.

Addressing the meeting, the head of the Turkmen delegation highlighted the importance of the Central Asia – European Union format as an effective mechanism for combining the efforts of the countries of the region and their European partners in the interests of peace, sustainable development and stronger mutual trust.

It was noted that Turkmenistan consistently advocates addressing pressing international and regional security issues through political and diplomatic means, on the basis of universally recognised norms of international law and with the United Nations playing a central coordinating role.

The Turkmen delegation reaffirmed Turkmenistan's readiness to further develop practical mechanisms for cooperation between Central Asia and the European Union, including the High-Level Political and Security Dialogue, consultations between special representatives, and EU regional programmes aimed at strengthening the capacities of the Central Asian states.

During the visit, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan held a meeting with Olof Skoog, Deputy Secretary-General for Political Affairs of the European External Action Service.

The parties reviewed prospects for the further development of relations between Turkmenistan and the European Union. The discussions focused on transport connectivity, unlocking the potential of the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor, implementation of the EU Global Gateway initiative, and the expansion of cooperation in the energy sector.

The parties also discussed opportunities for cooperation in energy efficiency, renewable energy, the introduction of modern technologies and methane emissions reduction. Particular attention was given to cooperation in education, professional training and the development of academic exchanges.

Ahmet Gurbanov also met with Gilles Bertrand, the European Union Special Envoy for Afghanistan and Head of the Afghanistan and Pakistan Division of the European External Action Service.

During the talks, the Turkmen side reaffirmed its commitment to continuing humanitarian support for the Afghan people, implementing transport and energy projects involving Afghanistan, and expanding cooperation with the European Union through consultations between special representatives and the regional CADAP and BOMCA programmes.

The importance of coordinating international efforts under the leading role of the United Nations, including through cooperation within the UN-led Doha Process, was particularly emphasised with a view to promoting Afghanistan’s peaceful and sustainable socioeconomic development and strengthening security throughout the region.

Following the talks, the parties agreed to continue substantive work in the identified areas, with particular attention to advancing concrete initiatives in transport, energy, education and regional security. The meetings held in Brussels marked an important step towards preparing new joint actions between Turkmenistan and the European Union.