New Directions in Central Asia: Turkmenistan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Addresses Regional Cooperation
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Rashid Meredov, recently delivered a speech at the 19th ministerial meeting “Central Asia – European Union” in Luxembourg. During his speech, he discussed the main areas of cooperation between Turkmenistan and the EU, as well as the priorities for long-term interaction.
One of the key points highlighted by Minister Meredov was the importance of maintaining international peace and security. He mentioned President Serdar Berdimuhamedov’s initiative to develop a Global Security Strategy, which focuses on preventive diplomacy, the use of neutrality for peaceful solutions, and restoring trust and dialogue.
Economic cooperation with the EU was also emphasized by the Minister. He stressed the significance of interregional trade, economic and financial partnership, and expressed gratitude for the EU’s support in strengthening transit links and developing the private sector in Central Asia. Minister Meredov also mentioned Turkmenistan’s interest in joining the World Trade Organization and the need for further collaboration with European partners in this regard.
Transport connectivity between Central Asia and Europe was another crucial topic discussed by the Minister. He highlighted efforts to develop the Caspian Sea-Black Sea route and proposed a high-level meeting in Turkmenistan in 2024 to strengthen transport connectivity.
The energy sector was also a focus of the speech. Minister Meredov underlined the importance of transporting energy resources for Turkmenistan and expressed support for expanding gas exports to Europe through the Trans-Caspian Gas Pipeline. He also called for international cooperation in the clean and renewable energy sectors and urged support for two UN General Assembly resolutions initiated by Turkmenistan on sustainable transport and the mobility of energy resources.
The Minister reaffirmed Turkmenistan’s commitment to environmental protection and climate change mitigation. He mentioned national programs such as the “Green Belt” and proposed the creation of a Regional Center for Climate Technologies in Ashgabat to address climate change issues.
Education was also highlighted as a crucial aspect of Turkmenistan’s socio-economic development. Minister Meredov praised the EU’s Erasmus+ program and proposed strengthening ties between Turkmen and European educational institutions.
In conclusion, Minister Meredov emphasized the vast potential for cooperation in various sectors, including healthcare and the digital economy.
During the ministerial meeting, the Joint Roadmap for deepening ties between the EU and Central Asia, as well as the Joint Communiqué of the 19th EU-Central Asia Ministerial Meeting, were adopted. The participating countries expressed their support for holding the next anniversary ministerial meeting “Central Asia – EU” in Turkmenistan in 2024.
