Central Asia faces a strategic task: transforming the region into a major geoeconomic hub.
In his address to the 7th Consultative Meeting of Central Asian Heads of State, Turkmen President Serdar Berdimuhamedov outlined a comprehensive vision for achieving this goal through strengthened economic partnerships, integrated transport corridors, and the development of the energy sector, The Caspian Post informs via Turkmen media.
President Berdimuhamedov stressed that Turkmenistan’s priorities focus on enhancing regional economic cooperation and positioning Central Asia as a strategic player in the Eurasian space. He also welcomed Azerbaijan’s accession as a full member, highlighting its potential to expand regional collaboration.
From Corridor to Hub: Unlocking Transit Potential
A key part of President Berdimuhamedov’s address focused on transport and transit development, noting that Central Asia’s role in global trade will continue to grow due to shifting investment and economic activity toward East and South Asia, the Middle East, and the Near East.
“To achieve this, we must actively engage in the creation of combined East-West and North-South transport corridors,” he said, emphasizing that a modern, extensive, and efficient transport and logistics infrastructure is a shared strategic objective benefiting all countries in the region.
Energy of the Future: Focus on Power Grids
In the energy sector, traditionally a top priority for the region, President Berdimuhamedov called for a shift beyond pipeline projects toward electricity networks as the backbone of Central Asia’s future stability. Turkmenistan expressed readiness to explore regional initiatives for production, supply, and consumption of electricity, aiming to ensure reliable infrastructure and resilience against potential external shocks.
Industrial and Trade Cooperation
President Berdimuhamedov also highlighted the importance of industrial and agro-industrial cooperation, urging the creation of joint production chains and cross-border enterprises. He underscored the need for enhanced regional and border trade, with active involvement from business communities to drive sustainable growth.
Regional Unity: Coordinated Water and Environmental Diplomacy
Addressing sensitive water and environmental issues, Turkmenistan pledged to strengthen cooperation on equitable water management based on mutual respect and solidarity. Environmental challenges, including the Aral Sea crisis and desertification, require joint regional efforts.
Berdimuhamedov proposed the formation of a coordinated environmental diplomacy within the UN, attracting growing international attention to Central Asia’s ecological challenges.
Humanitarian Cooperation and Regional Cohesion
Concluding his remarks, the Turkmen president emphasized that humanitarian collaboration remains a vital pillar of regional integration. With Turkmenistan assuming the chairmanship of the Consultative Meeting, he pledged to strengthen regional unity, attract substantial foreign investment, and promote large-scale international projects across Central Asia.
