World Environment Day: The EU and Turkmenistan Join Efforts for a Greener Future
In her remarks, Ambassador Peksa outlined the European Union’s environmental achievements to date, as well as future plans, both within the EU and globally, in cooperation with partner countries. She underlined that the European Union’s environmental policy is based on a long-term strategic vision, encompassing the European Green Deal, including the EU’s Biodiversity Strategy for 2030, the transition towards climate neutrality, resource efficiency, and the protection of ecosystems.
She emphasized that the EU’s Global Gateway strategy supports sustainable, green, and resilient development through investments in renewable energy, sustainable transport, digital connectivity, and climate adaptation.
“In Central Asia, environmental cooperation has become one of the key pillars of our partnership,” Ambassador Peksa noted. Through the Team Europe Initiative on Water, Energy and Climate Change, the European Union and its Member States support regional dialogue, climate resilience, renewable energy development, sustainable water management, and efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, including methane emissions.
The Ambassador also spoke about the European Union’s environmental cooperation with Turkmenistan. This work is carried out not only through Team Europe Initiative but also through bilateral programmes, including EU for Green Turkmenistan. She noted that the European Union appreciates Turkmenistan’s engagement in international climate processes, including its participation in the Paris Agreement, and welcomes the country’s growing cooperation with international partners on environmental and climate-related issues.
The Ambassador also highlighted the valuable contribution of civil society organisations in Turkmenistan that are actively engaged in environmental protection, recognizing their important role in raising awareness, promoting sustainable practices, and supporting environmental initiatives across the country. These organisations play a crucial role in building a healthier and more sustainable environment for future generations.
In the concluding part of her speech, Ambassador Peksa addressed the conference participants, particularly the young people in attendance, emphasizing that protecting the environment begins with each of us. She noted that environmental responsibility should not be limited to occasions such as World Environment Day but should be reflected in our everyday choices and habits. By taking simple steps – such as saving electricity and water at home, reducing waste, and recycling – we can all make a meaningful contribution. The Ambassador also encouraged participants to show compassion towards animals, particularly stray animals, highlighting responsible care, sterilisation, and adoption as important ways to contribute to more caring and sustainable communities.