European Commissioner for International Partnerships, Jozef Síkela has concluded a strategic visit to Turkmenistan, reinforcing the EU’s commitment to expanding cooperation under the Global Gateway strategy. The visit focussed on the EU’s role in strengthening Turkmenistan’s integration into regional and global economic networks, particularly in transport connectivity, renewable energy, and trade facilitation.
As a key element of Global Gateway, the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor was one of the main topics in discussions with President Serdar Berdimuhamedow, Deputy Chairs of the Cabinet of Ministers, and Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov. Commissioner Síkela reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to support Turkmenistan’s pivotal role in this strategic corridor, which enhances connectivity between Central Asia and Europe. He also visited the Turkmenbashi Port, a vital trade hub, where he met with the Director General of the Agency for Transport and Communications under the Cabinet of Ministers, Mammethan Chakyev. He reaffirmed the EU’s interest in supporting infrastructure modernisation and alignment of standards and legislation.
Commissioner Síkela said: “We see Turkmenistan as a key partner for building stronger connections between Europe and Central Asia. By working together under the Global Gateway, especially through the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor, we are creating faster, more secure trade routes that will open new opportunities for businesses, attract investments, and create jobs. Our joint efforts aim to cut trade times between Europe and Asia to only 15 days, while helping Turkmenistan become an important hub for commerce between Asia and Europe.”
Energy and climate cooperation were major pillars of the visit, as part of the Global Gateway’s focus on sustainable investments. Two key initiatives were launched under the EU-Turkmenistan bilateral cooperation facility:
- A EUR 6 million project, implemented by the International Trade Centre (ITC), to support Turkmenistan’s accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO) and foster economic modernization.
- A EUR 4.5 million initiative, implemented by GIZ, aimed at advancing renewable energy development, methane emissions reduction, and energy efficiency improvements.
Commissioner Síkela welcomed Turkmenistan’s accession to the Global Methane Pledge, stressing the importance of emissions reduction and sustainable energy solutions for fostering a greener economy. The EU’s technical and financial assistance will further support Turkmenistan to align with international trade and environmental standards.
The Global Gateway strategy represents the EU’s commitment to bridging global investment gaps by fostering sustainable connectivity in digital, energy, and transport sectors while strengthening education and research systems. The initiative aims to mobilise €300 billion in public and private investments from 2021 to 2027, driving sustainable growth and resilient partnerships worldwide.