ASHGABAT (TCA) — Following a decision of Federica Mogherini, the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice-President of the European Commission, the European Union will open a Delegation in Turkmenistan. This will take the number of EU Delegations around the world to 141 in total, the European Union External Action Service said on November 23.
High Representative/Vice-President Federica Mogherini said: “Fast changing regional dynamics and the growing importance of sustainable connectivity between Europe and Asia bring Central Asia to the centre of our attention. Countries in the region, especially Turkmenistan, are increasingly looking to the EU as a reliable partner for reforms, modernisation and to face the global challenges of today. And the European Union is keen as well to strengthen its cooperation with the region. By opening a new Delegation, we are responding positively to this demand and sending a strong signal to the Turkmen and European citizens about our engagement.”
The establishment of a new Delegation in Ashgabat will enable the European Union to step up political, economic and sectoral dialogue and cooperation with Turkmenistan. The decision reflects the EU’s wish to fully engage with Turkmenistan in areas of strategic interest such as security, human rights, energy, climate, and the rule of law.
The decision by the High Representative/Vice-President follows the agreement of the Commission and the Council of the European Union and will be implemented in the course of 2019.
