Turkmen-Georgian Relations: New Projects, Concrete Goals

Yesterday, the fifth meeting of the Turkmen-Georgian Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation was held in our capital. This meeting launched a new stage in the political-economic dialogue between the two countries and became a significant step in the implementation of interregional projects. The main topic of the meeting was the transport and logistics sector. The parties discussed several important issues regarding the development of international corridors connecting Central Asia with Europe: - An agreement was reached on the joint use of the capabilities of the Turkmenbashi International Seaport and the Georgian port of Poti. This will enable the creation of the shortest and most convenient logistics chain to European markets. - The Georgian side expressed great interest in increasing the transportation of goods passing through Turkmenistan via the port of Poti. During the talks, energy security and new transit projects were discussed in detail. In particular, increasing the capacity of the "Lapis Lazuli" transport corridor and bringing Turkmen energy resources to world markets through Georgia's transit capabilities were identified as strategic directions. Commission members emphasized the need to increase not only the volume but also the variety of trade turnover between the two countries. In the future, priority will be given to these products in export-import operations: - Petrochemical products; - Textile industry products; - Agricultural goods. Alongside the economy, an agreement was reached to regularly hold Days of Culture, scientific conferences, and sporting events to further bring the cultures of the two nations closer together. Joint business forums and exhibitions are planned to establish direct relations between business groups. Following the results of the fifth meeting, a relevant Protocol was signed. This document strengthened the legal basis of the agreements reached and defined a clear roadmap for the implementation of the planned activities. This meeting in Ashgabat proved once again that Turkmenistan and Georgia are not only economic partners but also strategic partners ensuring stability and development throughout the Eurasian region.