EU and Turkmenistan Define Cooperation Priorities for 2026

On Tuesday, a press conference was held in Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan, dedicated to the results of cooperation between the European Union and Turkmenistan, as well as planned areas of interaction for 2026. Participants noted that the joint agenda covers a wide range of areas such as climate change adaptation and environmental protection, increasing energy efficiency, cybersecurity, development of transport infrastructure, attracting investment, and supporting the private sector. The parties confirmed their readiness to further expand cooperation in political, economic, cultural, and humanitarian spheres. EU representatives emphasized the contribution of member states to the implementation of joint initiatives. It was also noted that relations are being developed in the "Team Europe" format involving national partners, business groups, and international financial institutions. Several practical measures are planned for 2026. In March, an inter-parliamentary dialogue between the Mejlis of Turkmenistan and the European Parliament, the next human rights dialogue, and the "Turkmenistan — EU" Business Forum scheduled for March 26 are expected to take place in Ashgabat. Cooperation between Turkmenistan and the European Union is carried out based on the Interim Agreement on Trade and Trade-related Matters. This document came into force in August 2010, prior to the ratification of the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement by the European Parliament.