Turkmen Ambassador to Belgium, Sapar Palvanov, has taken part in the 7th EU-Central Asia Dialogue on Afghanistan, held in Brussels.
The forum gathered representatives from Central Asian countries and EU institutions to discuss sustainable development, regional connectivity, humanitarian assistance, and practical cooperation with Afghanistan in the interest of regional stability and prosperity, The Caspian Post informs via Turkmen media.
Turkmenistan’s Neutral and Constructive Approach
During the session, Ambassador Palvanov outlined Turkmenistan’s policy of positive neutrality and good neighborliness, emphasizing that Afghanistan’s sustainable development is key to regional peace. He noted that economic integration, humanitarian cooperation, and infrastructure development are the most effective ways to achieve long-term stability.
Meetings with EU Special Representatives
A day earlier, on November 11, Ambassador Palvanov held talks with EU Special Representative for Central Asia Eduards Stiprais and EU Special Envoy for Afghanistan Gilles Bertrand. The sides discussed water management, border cooperation, and major energy and transport connectivity projects, underscoring the EU’s interest in practical regional initiatives.
TAPI Gas Pipeline in Focus
Particular attention was given to the flagship TAPI (Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India) gas pipeline project, which aims to link energy suppliers and consumers across Central and South Asia. The project is expected to create thousands of jobs, generate transit revenues for Afghanistan, and strengthen the region’s energy security.
Expanding Energy Cooperation
Other infrastructure topics included electricity transmission projects and plans to increase Turkmenistan’s electricity exports to Afghanistan under existing agreements. The Turkmen side highlighted the practical benefits of these efforts for stabilizing border provinces, improving access to utilities, and creating opportunities for small and medium-sized businesses.
Humanitarian and Educational Support
Turkmenistan continues to provide humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan - from electricity and essential goods to educational opportunities for Afghan students.
Building Trust and Regional Cooperation
The Brussels discussions reaffirmed the high level of trust and understanding between Central Asia and the European Union. Both sides stressed the importance of energy and transport initiatives, private sector support, humanitarian cooperation, and youth development.
The participants agreed to continue joint efforts on sustainable development, cross-border collaboration, and economic integration - combining energy and water initiatives with enhanced regional coordination. The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to further constructive engagement between the EU and Central Asia.
