Prospects for cooperation between the European Union and Turkmenistan

Today, a press conference was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan to discuss the outcomes of the European Union and Turkmenistan’s cooperation in 2024 and outline plans for 2025. Approximately 50 individuals attended, including representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, other Turkmen government agencies, the European Union delegation in Turkmenistan, civil society, and the media.

The event was opened by Ms. Myahri Byashimova, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, and Ms. Beata Peksa, Ambassador of the European Union to Turkmenistan.

Subsequently, both sides presented reports on the key results of EU-Turkmenistan cooperation in 2024 and strategic priorities for 2025.

2024 was a landmark year for EU-Turkmenistan cooperation. One of the most notable achievements was the progress made in developing the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor, a key priority for both parties. The EU supported the modernization of the Turkmenbashi-Turkmenabat Railway, the implementation of the Electronic Consignment Note (e-CMR) System, and the establishment of a Logistics Centre near the border with Kazakhstan. These initiatives, part of the EU’s Global Gateway strategy, aim to boost regional trade and improve logistics efficiency.

In the field of green energy and climate action, the EU launched the “EU for a Green Turkmenistan” initiative, which included pilot projects to reduce methane emissions and treat drainage water using algae-based technology. Over 150 government officials and industry stakeholders were trained, and major events like the National Youth Conference on Climate Change in Mary underscored the importance of youth engagement in environmental issues.

Trade facilitation and support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) also saw significant progress. The International Trade Centre (ITC) project supported Turkmenistan’s WTO accession by translating 39 legislative acts and training 300 SMEs on trade facilitation and e-commerce. Meanwhile, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) facilitated access to finance for over 120 businesses, 30% of which were women-led, and provided tailored advisory services to 199 enterprises.

In the area of human rights, the 16th EU-Turkmenistan Human Rights Dialogue in June 2024 highlighted Turkmenistan’s progress in eradicating statelessness, forced labor, and human trafficking. The EU offered support for reforms in the judicial and prison systems, and for the promotion of gender equality and the rights of persons with disabilities.

Cultural and educational exchanges were further developed, with over 120 students and academic staff benefiting from the Erasmus+ Programme. Cultural events like the Baroque-Bagshy tour and Francophonie celebrations brought European and Turkmen traditions closer together, fostering mutual understanding and strengthening ties.

As the partnership moves into 2025, the EU and Turkmenistan are focused on deepening cooperation in several key areas:

Transport and connectivity: The EU will continue to support the development of the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor, with a focus on enhancing regional trade and logistics efficiency. The EU Commissioner for International Partnerships, Jozef Sikela, is scheduled to visit Turkmenistan in March 2025 to discuss concrete steps in further cooperation.

Green energy and climate action: The EU will expand its support for renewable energy projects and climate adaptation measures, including the implementation of the Team Europe Initiative (TEI) for Climate, Energy, and Water.

Trade and investment: The EU will continue to assist Turkmenistan’s WTO accession and strengthen trade facilitation through initiatives like Prosperity in Central Asia programme. The Prosperity Cluster will focus on trade and investment in key sectors, including critical raw materials.

Institutional strengthening: The EU will support Turkmenistan’s efforts to strengthen governance, combat corruption, reforms of the judicial and prisons systems and promote human rights.

Inclusive societal development: The EU will support initiatives to empower women, address climate challenges, and promote youth engagement. The EU-CA Women-Leaders Forum in Ashgabat in April 2025 will highlight the role of women in leadership and development. A new regional Civil Society Organization (CSO) project will enhance youth involvement and strengthen regional networking among CSOs. The EU is also committed to supporting local CSOs through grants aimed i.a. at empowering women, addressing climate challenges, and supporting youth initiatives.

Ambassador Ms.Peksa highlighted the significance of supporting civil society in her speech. The European Union Delegation in Turkmenistan has been at the forefront of these efforts. For instance, with EU support, nearly 20 representatives from Turkmen civil society organizations participated in the 4th EU Civil Society Forum for Central Asia in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, in March 2023. Building on this success, 18 representatives from 17 Turkmen civil society organizations are set to participate in the 5th Forum, to be held in Almaty, Kazakhstan on January 28-30. Additionally, Ambassador Ms.Peksa mentioned that the European Commission’s “Support for Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Turkmenistan” grant program has been instrumental in strengthening civil society in the country. Last year, the program provided grants to three organizations: “Union of Economists of Turkmenistan”, “Yashl Shokhle” Association, and Ashgabat Club “Ynam”. This year, the grants will be awarded to “Tazе Zaman”, “Eko durmush”, and “Tebigy Kuwwat”.

The EU-Turkmenistan partnership has achieved several milestones in 2024, laying a solid foundation for future collaboration. As both parties look ahead to 2025, they remain committed to deepening their cooperation in areas of mutual interest, from transport connectivity and green energy to trade facilitation and human rights. Together, the EU and Turkmenistan aim to continue their shared endeavours, contributing to sustainable development and regional stability.

Berkeli Atayev.