Brussels, Belgium - From 17 to 19 March 2024, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Rashid Meredov, headed a high-level delegation on a working visit to European Union. This visit underscores the commitment of Turkmenistan to further strengthening its partnership with the European Union (EU) and exploring new avenues for cooperation.

During the visit, Minister Meredov engaged in a series of meetings with key representatives of the European Union, highlighting the shared interests and objectives between Turkmenistan and the EU. Notably, negotiations were held with Chief Foreign Policy Adviser to the President of the European Council, Simon Mordue, where both parties expressed their interest in deepening cooperation in various fields, including green energy, transport, and technological interconnection. Discussions also touched upon regional and international issues, with an emphasis on Turkmenistan's positive role in maintaining security and stability in the region.

Additionally, Minister Meredov met with the Vice-President of the European Commission, Margaritis Schinas, Executive Vice-President of the European Commission, Valdis Dombrovskis, and European Commissioner for International Partnership, Jutta Urpilainen, among other officials, to discuss the current state and prospects for cooperation between Turkmenistan and the EU across political, diplomatic, trade, economic, and humanitarian spheres.

A significant milestone in the visit was the signing of the Protocol to the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between Turkmenistan and the EU on 18 March 2024, at the Council of the European Union. This protocol reaffirms the commitment of both parties to strengthening their partnership and cooperation in areas of mutual interest. The signing ceremony was attended by Minister Meredov, as well as high-ranking EU officials, including Michael Siebert, the Managing Director of the European External Action Service for Eastern Europe, Russia, Central Asia, and regional cooperation.

Furthermore, a round table discussion titled "Turkmenistan and the EU: Towards a New Economic Partnership" was organised in Brussels on 18 March, bringing together representatives from Turkmenistan, the EU, and the European business community. This event provided a platform to explore opportunities for collaboration in key areas such as energy, investment, and trade, with a focus on expanding economic partnership between Turkmenistan and the EU.

In addition to the round table, Minister Meredov and Director General of the Agency for Transport and Communications under the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan, Mammethan Chakyev, held separate meetings with European organisations and companies to discuss cooperation in various sectors, including equipment supply, research projects, digitalization, and entrepreneurship development.

The visit of the Turkmen delegation to European Union underscores the importance of dialogue and engagement in advancing mutual interests and building a stronger partnership between Turkmenistan and the European Union.