Dilbar Primova European labour shortages and legal migration systems were central topics at the Tashkent International Migration Forum, where officials came together for discussions and solutions. Policymakers, international organisations and business representatives discussed Europe’s ageing population and persistent labour shortage concerns - and as a result, how these … [Read more...]
Celebrating the Spirit of Europe in Turkmenistan: Europe Day 2026 reception held in Ashgabat
Once again, the Europe Day reception in Ashgabat provided a platform to celebrate the values that bind the European Union and its partners: peace, solidarity, cooperation, and mutual respect. It reaffirmed the strong and evolving partnership between the European Union and Turkmenistan which is based on a shared goal of achieving peace and prosperity. The “Gala” Cultural and … [Read more...]
Ashgabat Discusses Further Steps for Digital Trade Development
On 11 and 12 May 2026, the International Trade Centre (ITC) held two workshops in Ashgabat on the regulation of digital trade and e-commerce. The events were organized within the framework of the European Union-funded project "Turkmenistan: Enhancing Trade Resilience and Integration." The workshops were attended by about 60 representatives from the public and private … [Read more...]
European Union funded CARAVAN Project: Empowering Content Creators in Turkmenistan
Content creators and information professionals took part in a series of training workshops which were held in Ashgabat at the Carbon Centre of Bouygues Turkmen from 29 April to 6 May 2026. Each workshop attracted around 30 participants, including content creators, media professionals, educators, and students, all interested in enhancing creative ideas, raising professional … [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...]
EU enhances Turkmenistan’s K9 capabilities with specialised vehicles for the State Frontier Service
On 20 August in Ashgabat, the EU-funded Border Management Programme in Central Asia (BOMCA 10) handed over specialised K9 vehicles to the State Frontier Service of Turkmenistan valued at EUR 205,130.44. The two vehicles, designed for transporting K9 officers and service dogs, will significantly strengthen the mobility and operational effectiveness of the country’s … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Approves Procedure for State Cadastre of Renewable Energy Sources
The Ministry of Energy of Turkmenistan approved “The Procedure for maintaining the state cadastre of renewable energy sources (RES) and the use of its data” on 1 August 2025. This document sets out requirements for the structure, content, and management of the national RES database. The cadastre will serve as a centralised system of information on potential and actual sites … [Read more...]
YOUTHx Festival in Ashgabat highlights EU’s commitment to the engagement of young people
On 12 August 2025, the Delegation of the European Union to Turkmenistan supported the YOUTHx Festival held in Ashgabat on the occasion of the International Youth Day. The event was organised in partnership with Creative Corner and Ynamly Kepil, bringing together young people from across the capital for a full day of workshops, dialogue, and exchange. The Festival focused on … [Read more...]
EU Reaffirms Commitment to Landlocked Developing Countries, Touting Innovative Financing and Collaboration
At a side event during the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs) in Awaza, Turkmenistan, the European Union (EU) reaffirmed its commitment to addressing the unique financing challenges faced by LLDCs. The event, titled "Unlocking SDG Finance in LLDCs through Integrated National Financing Frameworks," highlighted the critical role of Integrated National … [Read more...]
EU Highlights South-South Cooperation to Boost LLDCs at UN Conference
During the South-South Ministerial Meeting at the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs), the European Union (EU) emphasized the transformative potential of South-South cooperation in overcoming barriers faced by LLDCs. In a session focused on leveraging such cooperation to enhance regional integration through trade facilitation, Mr. Eduards Stiprais, EU … [Read more...]
EU Champions Trade and Connectivity for Landlocked Developing Countries at UN Conference
At the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs) (Awaza, Turkmenistan), the European Union (EU) reaffirmed its commitment to transforming the economies of LLDCs through trade, regional integration, and sustainable development. In a side event titled Pathways for Transforming Development in LLDCs through Trade, Regional Integration and Value Chains, … [Read more...]
Rhenus Group: Turkmenistan Could Become a Key Transport Artery Between Europe and Asia
A meeting took place in Brussels between Ambassador of Turkmenistan Sapar Palvanov and Heinrich Kerstgens, Director for Strategic Projects of the Board of the Rhenus Group—one of Europe’s largest international logistics companies. The primary focus of the meeting was to discuss Rhenus Group’s plans to significantly increase freight volumes through Turkmenistan. The company … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan and Benelux: Advancing Visa Facilitation and Deepening Dialogue
The Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Belgium, Sapar Palvanov, together with colleagues from Central Asia and Mongolia, took part in a meeting with Benelux Union Secretary General Frans Weekers and his deputies. During the meeting, Benelux officials gave a detailed presentation on the Union’s activities, its founding history, institutional mechanisms, and the practical benefits … [Read more...]
EU and Central Asia Strengthen Strategic Partnership at 12th High-Level Dialogue in Dushanbe
The European Union (EU) and Central Asian nations—Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan—convened in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, for the 12th High-Level Political and Security Dialogue, reinforcing their growing strategic partnership, according to the EU Delegation to Tajikistan. The meeting, held on 11 July, followed the 20th EU-Central Asia Ministerial … [Read more...]
Telephone Conversation with the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Vice-President of the European Commission
On July 8, 2025, a telephone conversation took place between the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Rashid Meredov, and the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Vice-President of the European Commission, Ms. Kaja Kallas. During the discussion, Ms. Kallas expressed her gratitude to Turkmenistan for providing a … [Read more...]
Central Asian Ambassadors Discuss Cooperation Priorities with the European Commission in Brussels
A meeting was held in Brussels between Mr. Peteris Ustubs, Regional Director of the Directorate-General for International Partnerships (DG INTPA) of the European Commission, and ambassadors of Central Asian countries accredited to the European Union. The meeting focused on reviewing the outcomes of the first “Central Asia – EU” Summit and preparing for upcoming events, … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan and the EU held the successive Human Rights Dialogue in Brussels
On 17 June 2025, the 17th Human Rights Dialogue between Turkmenistan and the European Union was held in Brussels. Within the framework of the mechanism, an exchange of views took place on a wide range of issues of mutual interest, including the implementation of national action plans in the field of human rights, strengthening the rule of law, ensuring gender equality, as well … [Read more...]
BOMCA 10 strengthens digital forensic investigation capacities in Turkmenistan
On 5 June, the EU-funded Border Management Programme in Central Asia (BOMCA 10) handed over a set of specialised digital forensic equipment, valued at EUR 14,559.08, to the General Prosecutor’s Office of Turkmenistan in Ashgabat. The new equipment, including four desktop computers, MOBILedit Forensic PRO software licences and connection kits for mobile devices, will support … [Read more...]
The Head of the UNRCCA Kaha Imnadze participates at the High-Level International Conference on Glaciers’ Preservation In Dushanbe
On 31 May, SRSG for Central Asia, Head of UNRCCA Kaha Imnadze, intervened at the High-Level International Conference on Glaciers’ Preservation in Dushanbe. In his statement he called on strengthening partnerships and deepening regional cooperation with the view to arrive at mutually beneficial solutions on addressing the outstanding issues of regional and global agendas. … [Read more...]
Marathon for Peace and Trust in Ashgabat: A Celebration of Sport and Unity (UPDATED with more pics)
Tamir Shakirov On May 31, 2025, Ashgabat hosted a vibrant sporting event—the "Marathon for Peace and Trust," organized by the Delegation of the European Union in Turkmenistan with the support of the Run-Rush public movement. Held in the scenic Independence Park, the race brought together over 500 participants, ranging from professional athletes to amateurs and local … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Joins the Global #ForOurPlanet Campaign with a Visit to the Toprak Recycling Plant
On 30 April 2025, the Delegation of the European Union to Turkmenistan visited the Toprak Recycling Plant together with volunteers, eco-activists, and enthusiastic social media followers — joining the EU’s global environmental campaign #ForOurPlanet. The visit marked Turkmenistan’s contribution to the campaign, which launched worldwide on Earth Day (22 April) and runs … [Read more...]
The Delegation of the EU and BOMCA 10 Programme Hosted Training on Media Literacy for Civil Society Organisations
From 22 to 24 April 2025, the Delegation of the European Union to Turkmenistan and the EU funded BOMCA 10 Programme co-organised a three-day interactive workshop in Ashgabat, aimed at enhancing media literacy and strategic communication skills among civil society organisations (CSOs). The training brought together CSO representatives from Ashgabat and the border regions of … [Read more...]
ALIPH, with the European Union, Launch Call for Projects to Safeguard Central Asia’s Cultural Heritage from Climate Threats
Geneva, Nukus, 8 April 2025 – At the Aral Culture Summit initiated by the Chairperson of the Uzbekistan Art and Culture Development Foundation (ACDF) and ALIPH’s newest board member, H.E. Gayane Umerova, Valéry Freland, Executive Director of ALIPH, announced a new call for projects in partnership with the European Union, via the European Commission’s Service for Foreign Policy … [Read more...]
EBRD and EU help take Turkmen craftsmanship online
Tahmina Amangeldiyeva Biology and handicrafts may appear worlds apart but Tajigul Kurbanova, an enterprising woman from Turkmenistan, seamlessly bridges these seemingly disparate realms. Her journey from biological scientist to leader of a thriving handicraft community is a case in point. Tajigul began to pursue creative work after her tenure in the sciences. It had … [Read more...]
International Conference on Sustainable Energy and Climate Held in Turkmenistan with Support from UNDP and the EU
On April 4, 2025, the International Conference titled “Status of Neutrality – a Guarantee of Sustainable Energy Development. Systems Thinking for Comprehensive Analysis of Energy and Climate" was held at the State Energy Institute of Turkmenistan in Mary city. The event was organized jointly within the framework of the United Nations development Programme (UNDP) project … [Read more...]
Outcomes of the first Central Asia–EU Summit in Samarkand
On 4 April 2025, the first Central Asia-European Union summit was held in Samarkand under the chairmanship of Uzbekistan. The summit was attended by: • Uzbekistan – President Shavkat Mirziyoyev • Kazakhstan – President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev • Kyrgyzstan – President Sadyr Japarov • Turkmenistan – President Serdar Berdimuhamedov • Tajikistan – President Emomali … [Read more...]
The President of Turkmenistan met with the President of the European Council
On 3 April 2025, within the framework of the first Central Asia–European Union Summit in Samarkand, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov held a bilateral meeting with President of the European Council Antonio Costa. During the meeting, the parties discussed the current situation and prospects for further cooperation between Turkmenistan and the European … [Read more...]
Ursula von der Leyen confirmed the EU’s interest in strengthening partnership with Turkmenistan
On 3 April, in Samarkand, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov held a meeting with President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen. During the conversation, President of the European Commission confirmed the EU's interest in strengthening multilateral partnership with Central Asian countries, including Turkmenistan. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov … [Read more...]
European Union – Central Asia: regional consolidation and global partnership
On April 4, 2025, the first “Central Asia - European Union” official summit will be held in Samarkand, under the chairmanship of the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev. This event is set to become a significant political milestone and will mark the beginning of a new phase in the relationship between the two regions. An important prerequisite for the … [Read more...]