Ashgabat, January 16, 2024, The Europe Today: European Commission Vice President Margaritis Schinas is set to embark on a working visit to Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, on January 17, marking a pivotal stop in his tour of five Central Asian countries. The visit is part of the European Union’s (EU) ongoing efforts to fortify its collaboration with Central Asia, with engagements scheduled in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, as reported by the European Commission on Friday.
Vice President Schinas is anticipated to hold key meetings with Turkmenistan’s President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and Deputy Prime Minister, Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov during his stay in Ashgabat. These discussions aim to further enhance diplomatic ties and explore avenues for mutually beneficial development.
The visit underscores the increasing significance of EU-Central Asia cooperation, emphasizing shared interests in regional stability, economic development, and global connectivity. It aligns with the broader EU strategy to strengthen partnerships with countries along the “Global Gateway: Sustainable Transport Connectivity between Europe and Central Asia.”
Vice President Schinas’ working visit anticipates the upcoming “Global Gateway” Forum, scheduled to take place in Brussels on January 29-30. The forum will spotlight sustainable transport connectivity between Europe and Central Asia, emphasizing the strategic importance of fostering robust links and collaborations across these regions.
