Turkmen Delegation Strengthens Ties with European Union
In a concerted effort to bolster diplomatic and economic relations, the Turkmen delegation, headed by Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Rashid Meredov, embarked on a strategic visit to Belgium and Italy from March 17-20, 2024. This visit marked a pivotal moment for Turkmenistan as it aimed to deepen ties with key European partners and explore avenues for mutual cooperation.
Engagement in Brussels, Belgium.The delegation's visit to Brussels, Belgium, from March 17-19, 2024, was marked by a series of high-level meetings aimed at enhancing collaboration with the European Union (EU) and various international organizations. Discussions centered on expanding Turkmenistan’s interaction within multilateral platforms, fostering political, diplomatic, and economic ties with Belgium, and forging partnerships with European businesses.
Highlighting the significance of these engagements, Minister Meredov held fruitful discussions with prominent EU representatives, including Simon Mordue, Chief Foreign Policy Adviser to the President of the European Council. Emphasis was placed on cooperation in green energy, transport, and technological interconnection, underscoring Turkmenistan's positive role in maintaining regional security and stability.
A significant milestone was achieved with the signing of the Protocol to the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between Turkmenistan and the EU, symbolizing a renewed commitment to collaboration. Moreover, Minister Meredov met with EU Special Representative for Central Asia, Terhi Hakala, to explore avenues for political, diplomatic, and economic cooperation.
Turkmen-EU Economic Partnership. A key highlight of the visit was the round table discussion themed "Turkmenistan and the EU: Towards a New Economic Partnership," attended by over 120 representatives from various European countries. Minister Meredov underscored the immense potential for expanding economic ties between Turkmenistan and the EU, with a focus on energy, investment, and trade cooperation.
In parallel, separate meetings were held between Minister Meredov, Director General Mammethan Chakyev, and European organizations and companies. Discussions revolved around enhancing existing cooperation, exploring potential projects, and fostering entrepreneurship and investment activities. Prospects for establishing service centers of European companies in Turkmenistan were also explored to facilitate mutual collaboration and improve service standards.
Strengthening Humanitarian Cooperation. Further reinforcing ties, Minister Meredov engaged with EU Special Representative for Human Rights, Olof Skoog, highlighting Turkmenistan's efforts to enhance its regulatory and legal framework in the humanitarian sphere. The parties reiterated their commitment to bilateral cooperation mechanisms, including the Turkmenistan-EU Joint Committee and Human Rights Dialogue.
Expansion into Italy. Continuing their diplomatic outreach, the Turkmen delegation's visit extended to Italy on March 20, 2024. In Rome, discussions were held with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Antonio Tajani, focusing on broadening bilateral cooperation across political, economic, and cultural domains. A Cooperation Program for 2024-2025 was signed, outlining the roadmap for future collaboration.
Additionally, fruitful discussions were held with the leadership of the City Council of Rome, highlighting the importance of cultural and humanitarian ties between Turkmenistan and Italy. A significant development was the agreement to host an archaeological exhibition of Turkmenistan at the Capitoline Museum in Rome in 2025, further enhancing cultural exchanges.
Strengthening Transport Cooperation. In a bid to enhance transportation links, Minister Meredov and Director General Chakyev met with Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini to discuss opportunities for cooperation in railway and maritime transport. The signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation between the ports of Turkmenbashy and Naples underscored the commitment to fostering connectivity and trade between the two nations.
The visit concluded on a promising note, with Turkmenistan reaffirming its commitment to deepening ties with the European Union and Italy across various sectors. The engagements underscored the mutual desire to foster collaboration and unlock the full potential of partnership between Turkmenistan and its European counterparts.The diplomatic endeavors undertaken during this visit lay a strong foundation for sustained cooperation, paving the way for mutually beneficial outcomes and fostering greater regional and global stability.
Baynazar NEPESOV,
the 4th year student of the Faculty of International Relations of the
Institute of International Relations of the
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan.