On 30-31 March 2026, the first Central Asia – European Union Interparliamentary Cooperation Forum took place in Samarkand. The event served as a dialogue platform for the systematic development of parliamentary diplomacy and the expansion of practical cooperation between the region and Europe. At the opening ceremony, Sodik Safoev, First Deputy Chairman of the Senate … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan – EU: Investment in Renewables and Methane Reduction as a Foundation for New Partnership
On 26 March 2026, Ashgabat hosted the Turkmenistan–European Union Business Forum, which served as a vital platform for discussing strategic partnership. One of the key topics of the forum was the third session, dedicated to "Governance aspects on green transition." The session was moderated by Philippe Merlin, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the French Republic. … [Read more...]
Enhanced Partnership Cooperation Agreement, Climate, and Human Rights: Ambassador of Turkmenistan Holds Series of Meetings in Brussels
This week the Ambassador of Turkmenistan, Sapar Palvanov had a cycle of negotiations with key representatives of European Union institutions. The meetings covered a wide range of issues, from climate security and water resources to the institutional framework of high-level partnership. The content and agenda of these talks take on particular significance following the … [Read more...]
EU Sees “More Potential” for Turkmenistan as Central Player in Trans-Caspian Corridor
During the second session of the Turkmenistan-European Union Business Forum, focused on "Future Horizons for Connectivity," Charlotte Adriaen, Head of Department for Central Asia and Afghanistan at the European Commission (DG INTPA), outlined the strategic evolution of the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor (TCTC). Addressing an audience of international investors and regional … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan – EU: An Open Dialogue on Business Climate and New Investment Horizons
The first session of the Turkmenistan–European Union Business Forum, held in Ashgabat on 26 March, served as a platform for a sincere and constructive exchange of views on improving the business environment in Turkmenistan. Participants discussed how to translate the country’s vast economic potential into concrete investment projects, with an emphasis on transparency, fiscal … [Read more...]
EU Ambassador Beata Peksa: We see strong potential to deepen our economic ties with Turkmenistan
Speaking at the Turkmenistan–European Union Business Forum in Ashgabat on 26 March 2026, the EU Ambassador to Turkmenistan, Beata Peksa, underscored that amid evolving global trade routes and reshaped supply chains, Turkmenistan is increasingly positioning itself as an important link between Europe and Asia. “We see strong potential to deepen our economic ties, and today’s … [Read more...]
$2.1 Billion in Trade Turnover: How Turkmenistan is Developing Trade with the EU Amid Geopolitical Risks
During the plenary session of the business forum "Turkmenistan – European Union: New Horizons for Connectivity, Investment and Sustainable Growth," the Minister of Finance and Economy of Turkmenistan, Mammetguly Astanagulov, presented a detailed overview of the current state and prospects of trade and economic cooperation between Turkmenistan and the European Union. Despite the … [Read more...]
Nearly 30 new projects to protect cultural heritage launched by the European Union and ALIPH in Central Asia
The European Union and ALIPH have launched 29 cultural heritage projects across Central Asia to safeguard endangered tangible and intangible heritage from the impact of climate change, following a highly successful Call for Projects that elicited 233 applications. © ALIPH, 2026 The European Union and ALIPH have launched 29 cultural heritage projects across … [Read more...]
The 9th EU–Turkmenistan Inter-Parliamentary meeting held in Brussels
On 5 March, the European Parliament in Brussels hosted the 9th Inter-Parliamentary Meeting between the European Union and Turkmenistan. During the meeting, the parties discussed current issues of political and economic cooperation, the regional agenda of Central Asia, the international situation, as well as matters related to the rule of law and social policy. The Turkmen … [Read more...]
Why Central Asia, Not Washington, Must Drive Critical Minerals Cooperation
Rassul Kospanov, Vlad Paddack Foreign ministers and senior officials from more than 50 countries convened on Feb.4 in Washington for the United States’ inaugural Critical Minerals Ministerial. Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan were among the delegations present – symbolically significant for a region that has spent the last decade signalling “multi-vector” foreign policy … [Read more...]
Ambassador Sapar Palvanov: Unlocking Turkmenistan-EU Cooperation potential requires a Modern Legal Platform
In Brussels, Ambassador of Turkmenistan Sapar Palvanov delivered a briefing to Members of the European Parliament with the participation of the Delegation for Relations with Central Asia and Mongolia (DCAS). The event was chaired by the Head of the DCAS, Ms. Giuseppina Princi, the Embassy of Turkmenistan to Belgium reports. During the briefing, the Ambassador focused on the … [Read more...]
Turkmen Ambassador in Brussels Discusses Trans-Caspian Route and Sustainable Tourism
The Ambassador of Turkmenistan, Sapar Palvanov met with Ms. Maja Bakran Marcich, Deputy Director-General of the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Mobility and Transport. The discussion focused on strengthening transport connectivity, advancing the Trans-Caspian route, and identifying practical outcomes in the context of a possible visit of the President of … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan and the European Investment Bank Discuss Financing for Railway Modernization
On 24 February 2026, the Minister of Railway Transport of Turkmenistan, Mammet Akmammedov, held a meeting with Edvardas Bumšteinas, Head of the European Investment Bank (EIB) Division for Asia, Central Asia, and the Pacific. According to the ministry, the main topic of the meeting was cooperation in modernizing Turkmenistan's railway infrastructure. In particular, the … [Read more...]
Investments from Europe: EIB and Turkmenistan Outline Cooperation Priorities
On 23 February 2026, the Ministry of Finance and Economy of Turkmenistan held a meeting with a delegation led by Edvardas Bumšteinas, Head of the European Investment Bank (EIB) Department for Asia, Central Asia, and the Pacific, according to the State News Agency TDH. The agenda of the talks included the finalization of the draft Framework Agreement between Turkmenistan and … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan and KU Leuven Explore Partnership in education
Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Belgium Sapar Palvanov held a meeting with the Head of Academic Diplomacy at KU Leuven, Mr. Bart Hendrickx. During the meeting, Mr. Hendrickx presented the international and research profile of KU Leuven, highlighting the university’s strong scientific performance and its active participation in major European research programmes, including … [Read more...]
EU and UN Launch Regional CHANGE Programme to Advance Gender Equality in Central Asia
The European Union and the United Nations (UN), in partnership with the governments of Central Asian countries, have officially launched an EU-funded multi-country programme aimed at preventing gender-based violence and promoting gender equality throughout the region. This was reported by the EU Delegation to Kazakhstan. The programme, titled "Challenging Harmful Attitudes … [Read more...]
Ambassador of Turkmenistan Discusses Priorities for Humanitarian Cooperation with the EU for 2026 in Brussels
The Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Belgium and the European Union, Sapar Palvanov, held two separate meetings in Brussels dedicated to deepening the partnership between Ashgabat and Brussels in the humanitarian sphere. The diplomat discussed prospects for cooperation in scientific research, high technologies, innovation, education, youth policy, and addressing climate … [Read more...]
EU and Turkmenistan to Host Business Forum “New Horizons for Connectivity and Sustainable Growth”
The Turkmenistan-European Union Business Forum “New Horizons for Connectivity and Sustainable Growth” will take place on Thursday, 26 March 2026, at the Yyldyz Hotel, Ashgabat. The Forum is jointly organized by the European Union and the Government of Turkmenistan, in partnership with the International Trade Centre (ITC). The Business Forum aims to … [Read more...]
Ambassador Philippe Merlin of France Praises EU-Turkmenistan Progress and Highlights Key Priorities for 2026
At today's press briefing at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Ambassador of France to Turkmenistan Philippe Merlin delivered remarks expressing strong support for the European Union's engagement with Turkmenistan and outlining France's active role within the Team Europe framework. Ambassador Merlin began by thanking EU Ambassador Beata Pęksa and Deputy … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan and EU Review 2025 Cooperation – High-Level Visits and New Projects on the Horizon in 2026
Elvira Kadyrova On 17 February 2026, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan hosted a press briefing dedicated to reviewing the outcomes of cooperation between Turkmenistan and the European Union in 2025, as well as discussing plans for engagement in the current year. The event brought together a broad range of participants: representatives from Turkmen ministries … [Read more...]
Green Barrier: How the EU’s Carbon Tax Could Impact Exporters from Central Asia?
Global climate policy is increasingly shaping international trade, and new instruments such as the European Union's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) are transforming the ways countries access global markets. With the phased implementation of CBAM starting in 2026, its effects are expected to impact energy systems, industrial production, and trade relations … [Read more...]
Central Asia Emerges as a Key Supplier of “Green” Minerals: UN and EU Launch Major Project
ON 28 January 2026, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), together with the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) and with financial support from the European Union, announced the launch of a new three-year project in Central Asia titled “Secure Critical Raw Materials (CRMs): Strengthening CRM Supply Chains in Central Asia.” The world is … [Read more...]
Turkmen Gas Can Assure Europe’s Energy Security
Igor Makarov While LNG provides flexibility, Europe still needs stable, long-term pipeline supply. Europe has made undeniable progress in reducing its dependence on Russian gas. According to data published by the European Council, Russia’s share of EU gas imports fell sharply after 2021, replaced largely by increased LNG supplies and higher volumes from Norway, the United … [Read more...]
Women entrepreneurs from Turkmenistan took part in international exhibitions in the field of clothing design and home decor in Paris
Women entrepreneurs from Turkmenistan took part in the international exhibitions Maison & Objet and Who’s Next Paris, held in Paris from 15 to 19 January. The visit was organised under the project “Turkmenistan: Enhancing Trade Resilience and Integration,” implemented by the International Trade Centre (ITC) with funding from the European Union. Participation in the … [Read more...]
Third Meeting of the Steering Committee of the EU for a Green Turkmenistan Project Held in Ashgabat
On 22 January 2026, the Third meeting of the Steering Committee of the project “EU for a Green Turkmenistan: Policy Dialogue and Climate Action 2024–2028,” co-financed by the European Union and the German Federal Foreign Office and implemented by GIZ was held at the Yyldyz Hotel in Ashgabat, according to the EU Delegation to Turkmenistan The co-financed European Union … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan’s Parliament Speaker and Foreign Minister Meet EU Special Representative for Central Asia
On 21 January 2026, Turkmenistan’s Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov and Speaker of the Mejlis Ms. Dunyagozel Gulmanova held separate meetings with the European Union’s Special Representative for Central Asia, Eduards Stiprais, who is in Ashgabat to take part in events during the United Nations Special Programme for the Economies of Central Asia (SPECA) Week. According … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Improves Energy Efficiency Regulatory Framework with EU Support
The Ministry of Energy of Turkmenistan has approved the “Recommendations on the Calculation and Analysis of Technological Consumption of Electricity for Transmission through the Electric Networks of the Power System of Turkmenistan”. The document was developed in accordance with the Law of Turkmenistan “On Energy Saving and Energy Efficiency” with the support of the … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan and EU Pave Way for High-Level Visits
Turkmenistan’s Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov met with the European Union Ambassador to Turkmenistan, Beata Pęksa, on Wednesday, 14 Jan. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, the meeting focused on a broad spectrum of cooperation across political, diplomatic, trade, economic, and cultural-humanitarian sectors. The primary focus of the talks was … [Read more...]
The EU continuesthe tradition of the Annual Christmas Book Fair in Ashgabat
On 20 December, the Delegation of the European Union to Turkmenistan hosted its annual open-air Christmas Book Fair, which for the third year in a row delighted residents and guests of Ashgabat. The event took place in the front yard of the Delegation and brought together the local community to celebrate books, culture, sustainability, and the festive spirit. The main … [Read more...]
Delegation of the European Union to Turkmenistan Hosts Public Forum Debates to Mark Human Rights Day
On 18 December, in the framework of the international observance of Human Rights Day, which is celebrated on 10 December, the Delegation of the European Union to Turkmenistan, in cooperation with the Institute of State, Law and Democracy of Turkmenistan and the Office of the Ombudsperson of Turkmenistan, organised Public Forum Debates aimed at promoting human rights values. The … [Read more...]
A New Bridge Across Eurasia: Why the Nordic–Central Asia Dialogue Must Become Permanent
Tariq Saeedi The first-ever meeting of Nordic and Central Asian foreign ministers, held on the sidelines of the OSCE Ministerial Council in Vienna last week, was not just a diplomatic courtesy — it was a breakthrough whose potential is almost too obvious to need stating. Finland, holding the 2025 OSCE Chairmanship, brought together representatives of nine counties. Sweden … [Read more...]
Global Gateway: Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor and Connectivity Investors Forum Key Deliverables
Tashkent, 27 November 2025 – the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor (TCTC) and Connectivity Investors Forum concluded with a strong signal of joint ambition from the European Union, South Caucasus and Central Asian countries, Türkiye, International Development Banks, the private sector and regional partners. The Forum demonstrated how the Global Gateway strategy is moving from … [Read more...]
Global Gateway: 3rd EU-Central Asia Economic Forum – Key Deliverables
The 3rd EU – Central Asia Economic Forum demonstrated the growing momentum of the partnership between the European Union and the countries of Central Asia. Coming after the first-ever EU – Central Asia Summit in Samarkand, the EU – Central Asia Ministerial meeting in Ashgabat, and the recent visit of Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the President of … [Read more...]
Brussels marked the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s Permanent Neutrality
In the heart of Europe, Brussels hosted a ceremonial reception marking the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s Permanent Neutrality and the International Year of Peace and Trust. Organized by the Embassy of Turkmenistan in the Kingdom of Belgium, the event brought together heads of European institutions, Belgian government representatives, international organizations, … [Read more...]
Ashgabat celebrates European Culture and Partnership
Ashgabat, 21 November 2025 - The Delegation of the European Union to Turkmenistan, the Embassy of France in Turkmenistan and the Ministry of Culture of Turkmenistan are proud to celebrate the European Culture Days in Turkmenistan, continuing a long-standing tradition that brings European art and culture to Turkmen audiences every autumn. The festivities began on 18 November … [Read more...]
A Partnership Based on Progress and Realism: The Future of the EU and Turkmenistan
By H.E. Ms Beata Pęksa, the Ambassador of the European Union to Turkmenistan We took another important step on our shared path when we met in Ashgabat for the 24th EU-Turkmenistan Joint Committee. The meeting on 7 November 2025, showed that the relationship is strengthening and becoming a strong platform for communication and cooperation. The Joint Committee is more … [Read more...]
The 24th meeting of the Turkmenistan–European Union Joint Committee was held in Ashgabat
On 7 November 2025, the 24th meeting of the Turkmenistan-European Union Joint Committee was held in Ashgabat. The delegation of Turkmenistan was headed by Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy B.Yalakov. The delegation of the European Union was headed by Audrone Percauskene, Deputy Managing Director for Eastern Europe and Central Asia of the European External Action … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan is studying WTO international standards on investment policy
Under the EU-funded International Trade Centre (ITC) project “Turkmenistan: Enhancing Trade Resilience and Integration”, a workshop was held for representatives of Turkmen ministries and government agencies to assess national needs in the context of the World Trade Organization’s Investment Facilitation for Development Agreement (IFDA). The event took place on 15–16 October … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Participates in Ministerial Meeting in Luxembourg: Focus on Trans-Caspian Corridor and Green Agenda
On 20 October 2025, a Turkmenistan delegation led by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Myahri Byashimova participated in a ministerial meeting in Luxembourg, held following the EU Foreign Affairs Council session. The meeting brought together foreign ministers and representatives from EU Member States, Armenia, Azerbaijan, the Republic of Moldova, Türkiye, Ukraine, and … [Read more...]
Doors to Asia and Europe: Turkmenistan’s Transport Strategy as the Foundation for Global Connectivity – Expert Opinion
Sapa Gurbanberdiyev, Deputy Chairman of the “Türkmen logistika” Association One of the key factors determining a country’s competitiveness in today’s geo-economic landscape, including Turkmenistan, is sustainable transport connectivity and efficient logistics. Robust and reliable transport systems are also vital for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, including … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Delegation Participated in the “Global Gateway 2025” Forum in Brussels
BRUSSELS, October 9–10, 2025. The delegation of Turkmenistan, led by Minister of Finance and Economy Mammetguly Astanagulov, participated in the second “Global Gateway 2025” Forum held in Brussels. The Forum was dedicated to deepening mutually beneficial partnerships and promoting sustainable infrastructure connectivity at the global level. The official program included … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan at the GIZ Brussels Platform: Dialogue on Energy Priorities
Brussels, October 2025. With the support of the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ), a working visit of delegations from Central Asian countries took place, focusing on sustainable energy development, the exchange of best practices, and strengthening regional cooperation. The initiative was implemented under the ‘EU4SustainableCentralAsia: Renewable Energy in … [Read more...]
The Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of Croatia is on a visit to Ashgabat
Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of Croatia Gordan Grlić-Radman, is on a visit to Turkmenistan on 7-8 October 2025. The purpose of the visit is to strengthen economic relations, with a special focus on cooperation in the energy sector. During the visit, the Minister met with the President of Turkmenistan, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Speaker of the Mejlis. The … [Read more...]
BOMCA 10 strengthens phytosanitary controls at Turkmenistan’s borders
On 22 September, the EU-funded Border Management Programme in Central Asia (BOMCA 10) handed over IT and laboratory equipment to the State Service on Plant Quarantine under the Ministry of Agriculture of Turkmenistan valued at EUR 17, 598.68. The provided equipment comprises 20 desktop computers and 20 monitors for regional departments and border posts, 8 monochrome laser … [Read more...]
The EU flagship initiative Border Management Programme in Central Asia holds the Closing Conference of the 10th Phase in Kyrgyzstan
On 5 September 2025, the EU-funded Border Management Programme in Central Asia (BOMCA 10) marked the completion of its 10th phase with a Closing Conference held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. The conference served as the final milestone in the Programme’s journey, drawing conclusions, reviewing achievements and discussing the future direction of EU–Central Asia cooperation in the … [Read more...]
3rd EU-Central Asia Economic Forum to take place in Uzbekistan in November
The third EU-Central Asia Economic Forum will take place in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, on 26 November 2025, according to the website of the European Commission’s Directorate-General for International Partnerships. Building on the two previous iterations of the EU-Central Asia Economic Forum, held in 2021in Bishkek and 2023 in Almaty, and organised in partnership with the … [Read more...]
Central Asian Youth Forum: “Health and Sustainable Development as a Path to Peace”
The Central Asia Drug Action Programme (CADAP 7), together with the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan, will host the Central Asian Youth Forum under the theme “Health and Sustainable Development as a Path to Peace.” The event will take place on 10–11 September 2025 at the Institute of Telecommunications and Informatics of Turkmenistan in Ashgabat. This Forum is … [Read more...]
European Union Awards “Green Certificates” to the State Energy Institute of Turkmenistan
The Delegation of the European Union (EU) to Turkmenistan awarded “Green Certificates” to the State Energy Institute of Turkmenistan (SEIT), recognising its commitment to sustainable and energy-efficient construction. The “Green Certificates” were presented by H.E. Ms Beata Peksa, EU Ambassador to Turkmenistan, during the official opening ceremony of the SEIT’s new academic … [Read more...]
Central Asia as a strategic bridge between East and West: Discussion on EU-Central Asia Cooperation at the Bled Forum in Slovenia
Within the framework of the anniversary Bled Strategic Forum (1-2 September Slovenia), a round table "The Centrality of Central Asia" was held, dedicated to the issues of expanding cooperation between the European Union and the countries of Central Asia. The discussion was attended by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Myakhri Byashimova, Deputy Minister of … [Read more...]
EU and Turkmenistan Discuss Plans for Multilateral and Bilateral Events
On 27 August 2025, a meeting took place at the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Brussels between Ambassador Sapar Palvanov and Peteris Ustubs, Director of International Partnerships for Asia and Pacific at the European Commission During the discussion, the parties touched upon upcoming events in the "EU-Central Asia" format, including a ministerial meeting in Luxembourg and forums … [Read more...]