On December 4, 2024, as part of Turkmenistan’s delegation visit to the 23rd meeting of the Turkmenistan-EU Joint Committee, Deputy Minister of Education Azat Atayev held a series of meetings with representatives of the European Union. The events took place at the European Commission headquarters.
The meetings began with welcoming remarks from Nienke Buisman, Head of the Regional Unit for International Cooperation at the Directorate-General for Research and Innovation of the European Commission. In his presentation, Azat Atayev provided detailed insights into Turkmenistan’s education system, its achievements, and future plans, with a particular focus on opportunities for international cooperation. The parties agreed to organize workshops to familiarize participants with the opportunities and procedures for participating in EU educational and innovation programs.
The European side presented key initiatives in the field of education and scientific research, including the Horizon Europe program aimed at supporting innovations and the Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions program focused on developing international mobility for researchers and students. A presentation by Eleni Zika, Head of the “Scientific Impact and Policy Feedback” sector, on the European Research Council’s grant system drew particular interest.
A separate meeting was held with Filip Van Depoele, Head of the Directorate-General for Education, Youth, Sport, and Culture. During the discussions, the parties emphasized collaboration under the Erasmus+ program, highlighting the significance of the National Erasmus Office in Turkmenistan. They also explored prospects for academic exchanges, support for Turkmen students in EU educational programs, and the development of joint scientific projects.
Azat Atayev noted that the programs presented by European colleagues open up extensive opportunities for Turkmen students and researchers, aligning with Turkmenistan’s strategic priorities in the education sector.
These meetings marked an important step in strengthening humanitarian ties and fostering academic and cultural exchanges between Turkmenistan and the European Union.