Meeting with the newly appointed EU Special Representative for Central Asia

On March 4, 2025, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Rashid Meredov met with the newly appointed European Union Special Representative for Central Asia Eduards Stiprais, who arrived in Ashgabat on a visit. At the beginning of the meeting, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan congratulated Mr. Stiprais on his appointment to the responsible position and wished him success. The sides agreed to continue working on the development of mutually beneficial ties between Turkmenistan and the European Union, including within the framework of the Central Asia–EU format. A wide range of issues of cooperation between Turkmenistan and the EU and its institutions were discussed during the meeting. The sides exchanged views on the development of political and diplomatic partnership by strengthening the legal framework of cooperation and bilateral cooperation mechanisms. In this regard, the importance of the consistent work of the “Turkmenistan–EU” Joint Committee, the Inter-Parliamentary Dialogue, as well as the Human Rights Dialogue was emphasized. The sides discussed cooperation in the field of energy, transport and connectivity, environmental protection, in particular the initiatives on reduction of methane emissions and the development of renewable energy sources. The sides emphasized the importance of development trade and economic ties. The sides also discussed interaction with the EU financial institutions. Special attention was given to humanitarian vector of partnership, educational projects and programs, as well as strengthening partnership between institutions and scientific centers. The sides spoke in favor of continuing the practice of holding trainings and courses within the framework of current and prospective projects. In addition, the diplomats discussed preparations to joint events planned for the current year.