ORIENT | March 26. The first-ever Turkmenistan-European Union business forum became a platform not only for official statements but also for in-depth policy dialogue. Speaking at the forum, EU Ambassador Beata Peksa outlined Brussels' new strategy for the region. This strategy involves shifting from technical assistance to large-scale, high-quality investments.
Ms. Peksa emphasized that, amid the restructuring of global trade routes, Turkmenistan is increasingly positioning itself as an indispensable bridge. The EU's Global Gateway strategy for Central Asia now has four clear priorities: development of the Trans-Caspian Corridor; digital connectivity; critical raw materials; and water, energy, and climate.
"We see great potential, and our goal is to translate it into concrete cooperation driven by the private sector," the diplomat stated.
In an interview with ORIENT, Beata Peksa detailed how the EU intends to ground its initiatives in Turkmenistan.
Transport Corridor: Hard and Soft. Responding to our publication's question about Turkmenistan's role in developing the Trans-Caspian route, the Ambassador noted that the EU views the country as an active participant in developing not only "hard" infrastructure (ports, roads) but also "soft" infrastructure. This includes the digitalization of customs and the harmonization of regulations, which will allow businesses to effectively reduce transit times and costs.
Green Diplomacy and Methane. Particular attention was paid to the environment during the discussion. The EU is ready to support Turkmenistan in fulfilling its commitments to reduce methane emissions. The "Team Europe" approach means that political decisions will be followed by tangible financing from the EBRD and the European Investment Bank.
Turkmenistan-EU Forum Facts and Figures
200+ participants: politicians, businessmen, and bankers
90+ companies: from logistics to IT
40+ B2B and B2G meetings: direct contact between business and government
Exhibition: 10 Turkmen agro-and textile companies, with the support of ITC, presented their products for EU markets.
