Key Highlights from Turkmenistan’s Halk Maslahaty Speaker at the Paris Economic Forum
Turkmenistan’s Vision for Partnership: Highlights from the Turkmen-French Economic Forum
During an official visit to France, the Chairman of the Khalk Maslakhaty, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, addressed attendees at the Turkmen-French economic forum held at the InterContinental Paris – Le Grand Hotel. His speech emphasized Turkmenistan’s geopolitical stability, economic opportunities, and the importance of cooperation with international partners, particularly France.
I. Geopolitical Position: Neutrality as a Cornerstone
Berdimuhamedov underscored Turkmenistan’s internationally recognized neutrality, reaffirmed by a UN General Assembly resolution in 2025. This status is not just a diplomatic formality; it forms the foundation for Turkmenistan’s proactive and balanced diplomatic approach. He noted President Serdar Berdimuhamedov’s initiative to declare 2025 the International Year of Peace and Trust, which garnered international support, including from France.
Furthermore, he highlighted the importance of regional relationships with neighboring countries, such as Iran and Afghanistan, and reiterated Turkmenistan’s commitment to good neighborliness and economic dialogue.
II. Geoeconomic Strategy: Investment and Industrialization
The second part of the address focused on Turkmenistan’s economic outlook. Citing the International Monetary Fund, he pointed out that Turkmenistan, as a developing economy, presents numerous investment opportunities. The government has established a robust regulatory framework to ensure investment security, aligning with international standards.
Berdimuhamedov presented two significant development programs: the Industrialization Program, targeting key sectors like oil and gas, and the National Program of Socioeconomic Development aimed at fostering sustainable growth. He also acknowledged fruitful collaborations with French companies, such as Cifal and Bouygues, involved in various large-scale projects in Turkmenistan.
III. Five Areas for Enhanced Cooperation
Berdimuhamedov proposed five key areas for advancing Turkmen-French cooperation:
Promotion of French Technologies: Especially in oil and gas, transport, chemicals, and satellite technologies.
Green Energy Initiatives: Including hydrogen energy, urban development, and combatting methane emissions.
Integration of French SMEs: Enhancing business ties and diversifying projects within Turkmenistan’s economy.
Tourism Development: Utilizing French expertise to unlock Turkmenistan’s tourism potential.
- Training Qualified Personnel: Ensuring sustainability and effectiveness in the above-mentioned sectors.
Berdimuhamedov highlighted the need for systematic planning and expressed optimism about collaboration after seeing participation from Turkmen businesses at the forum.
Conclusion: A Future-Oriented Relationship
In closing, Berdimuhamedov acknowledged the contributions of the French organizers for facilitating dialogue and the exploration of new cooperation formats. He reiterated Turkmenistan’s readiness to discuss practical initiatives aimed at deepening bilateral relations, enhancing trust, and collaboratively building a sustainable economic future.
This forum not only marks a significant step in Turkmenistan’s international engagement but also lays the groundwork for strengthened ties with France, promoting mutual growth and stability.
