The European Union is expanding cooperation with Turkmenistan through targeted initiatives that support the country’s green economy and improve its trade environment, the information from the European Commission says, reports Daryo.uz.
The EU is allocating significant resources to strengthen key sectors in Turkmenistan as part of its commitment to promoting sustainable development.
“Turkmenistan benefits from a €11 million cooperation mechanism covering the period from 2021 to 2024. It focuses on the green economy to support political dialogue and provide technical assistance in areas such as methane emissions reduction, energy efficiency, and renewable energy,” the press service stated.
In addition to environmental efforts, the EU initiative also focuses on improving Turkmenistan’s business climate. Special attention is given to economic development, with an emphasis on supporting micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) led by women and youth.
Moreover, the fund assists Turkmenistan in its accession process to the World Trade Organization (WTO), fostering the country’s integration into global trade systems.
These efforts are part of the EU’s broader strategy in Central Asia.
“The EU’s relations with Central Asia are guided by a strategy adopted in 2019, which outlines three priorities: regional cooperation, resilience, and prosperity. This is complemented by the EU-Central Asia roadmap for deepening ties,” a Commission representative said.
The resilience component of this strategy covers areas such as water and energy resource management, human rights, and regional stability, while the prosperity component focuses on economic interconnectedness, digital transformation, and entrepreneurship, especially in the post-pandemic period.
At the regional level, the EU is also implementing several flagship Global Gateway projects benefiting Central Asian countries, including Turkmenistan. These initiatives focus on areas such as digital and transport connectivity, as well as regional development of critical raw materials.
During the 19th meeting of EU and Central Asian ministers in Luxembourg on October 23, 2023, the EU-Central Asia roadmap for deepening connections was adopted.
The EU's engagement in Central Asia, including its cooperation with Turkmenistan, underscores its commitment to strengthening regional ties and promoting sustainable development through a balance of environmental and economic reforms. As Turkmenistan continues to develop its green economy and improve its trade environment, the EU’s strategic support will play a crucial role in shaping the country’s future growth trajectory.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
October 22, 2024