Advisor to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Batyr Niyazliyev and Ambassador of Turkmenistan to the Kingdom of Belgium Sapar Palvanov took part in the first Forum of Strategic Institutes, “Central Asia – European Union: Transforming Cooperation in a Changing World.” This was reported by the press service of the Turkmen diplomatic mission.

The forum was held at the headquarters of the European External Action Service with the support of the office of the EU Special Representative for Central Asia and the EU Institute for Security Studies (EUISS). Participants included representatives of think tanks from Central Asian countries, EU institutions and European experts.

Over two days, participants discussed prospects for the strategic partnership between Central Asia and the EU, international security, trade and economic ties, transport and energy connectivity, investment, digitalization and education.

The Turkmen side advocated moving from agreeing on common priorities to implementing specific joint projects. Promising areas included supplies of natural gas from Turkmenistan to the European market, as well as the development of the country’s transport and logistics potential and the International Seaport of Turkmenbashi.

In addition, Turkmenistan presented an initiative to host the Central Asia–EU Economic Forum in 2027. The platform is intended to expand direct business contacts and promote mutually beneficial projects.

During discussions on humanitarian ties, the Turkmen delegation highlighted international cultural events, including the first World Championship of Akhal-Teke horses, held in the Netherlands in September 2026.

Following the forum, participants emphasized the importance of regular contacts between think tanks in Central Asia and the European Union, joint research and the preparation of practical recommendations for developing interregional cooperation.