Brussels Diplomatic Academy shows interest in cooperation with Turkmenistan
Turkmenistan's Ambassador to Belgium Sapar Palvanov held a meeting on Monday with the Director of the Brussels Diplomatic Academy, Dr. Gunther Gaoblom and Advisor Jean de Brabander. The subject of discussions was the possibility of establishing partnership contacts between the Academy and the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan.
During the meeting, various aspects of cooperation were discussed, representatives of the Academy shared information about their training programs and areas of specialization. So, in addition to the traditional areas of training for diplomats, the Academy offers interdisciplinary training in such areas as energy transition, environmental diplomacy, brand building, cyber diplomacy and crisis management.
It was emphasized that the academic programs of the Academy focus not only on theoretical aspects, but also on practical application, including optional courses that allow students to choose their preferred areas of study.
The Academy also extends its training programs to diplomats from other countries and offers training to businesses. In this regard, representatives of the Academy expressed interest in establishing ties with the Turkmen private sector.
In order to formalize and consolidate the intentions, the importance of signing a Memorandum of Understanding between the Academy and the IIR MFA of Turkmenistan was emphasized. The document will provide a legal basis for future cooperation and identify specific areas of interaction between the two institutions. In addition, the possibility of holding a lecture by the Turkmen side at the Brussels Diplomatic Academy as a means of expanding the mutual exchange of knowledge and experience was discussed.
Representatives of the Academy proposed to involve the Flanders Investment and Trade Agency (FIT) as a potential partner in this cooperation. FIT could play an important role in raising awareness about Turkmenistan and its business opportunities among Belgian stakeholders. The Turkmen side was also invited to consider a proposal to organize a conference or exhibition in Brussels with the participation of Turkmen government agencies and business circles to demonstrate the prospects of doing business in Turkmenistan.
In conclusion, representatives of the Academy expressed hope for receiving a draft Memorandum of Understanding for consideration and subsequent signing. They also expressed interest in visiting Turkmenistan later this year to participate in national celebrations on the occasion of a big state holiday – the Day of Neutrality.
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