The historic first "Central Asia – European Union" Summit took place in Samarkand on April 4th, bringing together the leaders of all five nations in the region, as well as the leadership of key EU institutions – the European Council and the European Commission. The meeting culminated in the signing of a Joint Declaration on Partnership and the agreement of a substantial package of initiatives aimed at the economic, humanitarian, and technological integration of the two regions.

The meeting was held under the chairmanship of the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev. The delegations also included the heads of state of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and leading European figures, including António Costa and Ursula von der Leyen.

In his address, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov of Turkmenistan focused on the following key topics:

Significance of the meeting format. The importance of holding high-level talks in the "Central Asia - European Union" format was emphasized as evidence of a shared commitment to deepening relations and building a robust partnership.

Regional peace, security, and stability. These were highlighted as crucial objectives for joint efforts, with emphasis placed on the constructive role of political and diplomatic engagement between the region and the EU, particularly within the context of UN efforts.

Vision for the future of Central Asia. An aspiration was presented to see the region as peaceful, economically attractive, stable, and predictable, free from geopolitical conflicts.

Role of Turkmenistan's Neutrality. Attention was drawn to the unanimously adopted UN General Assembly Resolution "Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan" and gratitude was expressed for its support. Settlement of the situation in Afghanistan: This was identified as an important issue for regional and global security.

Key initiatives of Turkmenistan:

Active energy dialogue with the EU. Firm readiness for a substantive energy dialogue at a new level and the implementation of practical steps were reaffirmed.

Development of "green" energy. A proposal was made to launch practical joint projects in this area, increase electricity generation capacities, and supply it to Europe with a consolidated position of transit countries.

Cooperation in renewable energy sources. Readiness to work with European partners on the utilization of wind and solar energy was expressed, along with openness to considering prospects for cooperation in hydrogen energy.

Development of the East-West and West-East transport and communication corridor. The key role of the Trans-Caspian route was underscored, and readiness to provide the capacities of the Turkmenbashi port and road infrastructure was confirmed.

Laying of subsea cables along the Caspian sea bed. The economic benefits and importance of this project for energy, economic, and transport stability in Eurasia were substantiated.

Attracting EU investment in infrastructure projects. Confidence was expressed in the timeliness of such participation, and readiness to provide investors with the most favorable conditions for expanding trade with Europe was stated. A proposal was made to consider the possibility of creating support programs for exporters and importers.

Expansion of cultural and humanitarian cooperation. The effectiveness of EU educational programs (TACIS-TEMPUS, ERASMUS-MUNDUS, DARYA, ERASMUS+) was noted, and a proposal was made to develop a joint project in the field of vocational education.

Intensification of joint scientific and research projects. Cooperation in the fields of history, archaeology, ethnography, and the preservation of cultural heritage was proposed. Development of tourist exchanges: Interest was expressed in creating targeted joint programs for ecological and ethnographic tourism.

Further active participation in the "Central Asia - European Union" format. A firm positive attitude towards the continuation and intensification of the partnership was reaffirmed.

Overall, the address by the President of Turkmenistan was aimed at emphasizing the country's role as a reliable and responsible partner, ready for active cooperation with the European Union in various areas of mutual interest. Particular attention was paid to issues of regional security, energy cooperation, and the development of transport infrastructure.

The Summit concluded with the signing of a Joint Declaration, which formalizes the main agreements and the strategic direction of the partnership. Plans are in place to establish a permanent Partnership Committee at the level of Deputy Prime Ministers, with annual meetings to ensure the implementation of the decisions adopted.

ORIENT