Afghanistan's Integration into Transit Routes Was Discussed at a Meeting of EU and Central Asian Special Representatives in Almaty
ORIENT | Politics. Key issues of regional security and inclusive economic development were the main topics of the 8th meeting of the Special Representatives and Envoys of the European Union and Central Asian States for Afghanistan, which took place on June 15 in Almaty. This representative multilateral meeting was attended by a Turkmen delegation led by Deputy Foreign Minister Akhmet Gurbanov, as well as plenipotentiary representatives of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, the European Union, and the United Nations.
During constructive discussions, diplomats held a comprehensive exchange of views on current aspects of the developing situation in Afghanistan, thoroughly analyzing its direct impact on overall stability in the region and outlining key prospects for expanding international cooperation.
One of the central and most practical areas of discussion at the Almaty meeting was strengthening regional integration through the large-scale development of transport, logistics, and transit corridors running through Afghanistan. Participants agreed that the revitalization and modernization of these routes could act as a powerful catalyst for expanding trade and economic cooperation between the countries of Central and South Asia, as well as serve as a reliable bridge for strengthening intercontinental ties with the European Union. In this context, the significant coordinating role of the UN and its specialized agencies in providing humanitarian aid to the population, promoting the country's socioeconomic recovery, strengthening institutions, and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals was particularly emphasized.
Speaking to his foreign colleagues, Deputy Foreign Minister Akhmet Gurbanov outlined in detail Ashgabat's consistent, peace-loving, and constructive position. It was clearly stated that Turkmenistan consistently supports achieving lasting peace and economic stability in Afghanistan, viewing the neighboring state as a full-fledged and critically important participant in key regional integration processes.
Our country has demonstrated this commitment in practice for many years, supplying its neighbors with electricity and humanitarian aid, as well as implementing major cross-border infrastructure projects. The Turkmen side firmly reaffirmed its full readiness to continue active engagement with all regional states, European Union structures, and international institutions to ensure the overall security, long-term prosperity, and sustainable development of Afghanistan.
