Ashgabat, September 9, 2025 – The Europe Today: On September 8, 2025, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Rashid Meredov held a meeting with the Special Representative of Finland to the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), Teri Hakala.
At the outset, Minister Meredov expressed gratitude to Ms. Hakala for her personal contribution to strengthening constructive partnership and highlighted Finland’s important role in enhancing the effectiveness of the OSCE.
The discussions focused on the long-standing and fruitful cooperation between Turkmenistan and the OSCE across political, economic, environmental, and humanitarian dimensions. Both sides acknowledged the significance of the projects and programs implemented in these areas.
It was noted that in recent years Turkmenistan’s engagement with OSCE institutions, including the Parliamentary Assembly, the Office of the High Commissioner on National Minorities, the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights, and the Representative on Freedom of the Media, has significantly expanded.
Particular attention was given to the symbolism of Finland chairing the OSCE in 2025, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act adopted in Helsinki. In this regard, the interlocutors agreed that Finland’s chairmanship priorities—focused on dialogue and confidence-building—align with Turkmenistan’s policy of neutrality and its international initiatives, notably the declaration of 2025 as the International Year of Peace and Trust.
The parties emphasized the importance of coordinating efforts to ensure security, energy development, and transport connectivity. They also underlined the need to continue exchanging experience in human rights protection, strengthening democratic institutions, and promoting the rule of law.
