Conference in Ashgabat Deliberates on Advancing Turkmenistan-EU Cooperation

Ashgabat, The Gulf Observer: In a momentous gathering underscoring three decades of collaborative endeavors, the Joint Conference of Turkmenistan and the European Union titled “30 years of cooperation between Turkmenistan and the European Union: working together for a better future” convened in Ashgabat. This significant event, convened to deliberate on the continued advancement of a comprehensive partnership between the two entities, was confirmed by the press service of the Turkmen Foreign Ministry.

The inaugural session of the conference commenced under the esteemed patronage of the Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Rashid Meredov, alongside the EU Special Representative for Central Asia, Teri Hakala. Their joint inauguration marked the commencement of discussions aimed at fostering enhanced cooperation and mutual understanding between Turkmenistan and the European Union.

During the plenary meeting, speakers underscored the dynamic and progressive trajectory of Turkmen-European cooperation in recent years, shedding light on priority sectors for future collaboration. Emphasized areas included education, security, climate resilience, transportation infrastructure, energy sustainability, digital innovation, water resource management, and trade facilitation.

In a significant culmination of the plenary deliberations, a landmark Memorandum of Understanding was inked between the Ministry of Energy of Turkmenistan, the state concern “Turkmengaz,” and the German Society for International Cooperation (GIZ). This milestone agreement sets the stage for enhanced cooperation and knowledge exchange in vital sectors, reaffirming the commitment of both Turkmenistan and the European Union to sustainable development and mutual prosperity.

Thematic sessions of the conference delved into successful joint initiatives spanning education, trade, security, and the green economy. These sessions provided a platform for stakeholders to exchange insights, showcase best practices, and chart the course for future collaboration in key sectors.

An accompanying exhibition, held within the esteemed confines of the Foreign Ministry building, showcased the tangible achievements of the 30-year Turkmen-European partnership. Through captivating displays and interactive exhibits, attendees were afforded a firsthand glimpse into the transformative impact of collaboration between Turkmenistan and the European Union across various spheres of engagement.

The Joint Conference stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of partnership and cooperation between Turkmenistan and the European Union. As both entities look towards the future, guided by shared values and aspirations, such collaborative initiatives serve as catalysts for fostering sustainable development, prosperity, and regional integration.