Turkmenistan's Ambassador to Belgium, Sapar Palvanov, held a series of meetings in Brussels with senior representatives of the European Commission on the prospects for long-term partnership. This was reported by IIC.

During the negotiations with Director-General for Research and Innovation Marc Lemaitre, it was noted that the European Union is one of Turkmenistan's three key strategic partners for 2025-2026.

The parties identified the introduction of high technologies, the development of artificial intelligence and the coordination of efforts on the climate agenda as priority areas for cooperation.

The dialogue focused in particular on environmental issues in Central Asia. The meeting participants discussed the need for a scientifically based analysis of changes in the water balance and the shallowing of the Caspian Sea using modern monitoring systems.

In this regard, the Turkmen side presented an initiative to create a Regional Centre for Innovation and Technology, which is intended to become a key platform for climate research in the region. Representatives of the European Commission expressed interest in developing joint technological solutions in the interests of sustainable development.

The humanitarian aspect of cooperation was discussed at a meeting with Normunds Popens, Deputy Director-General for Education, Youth, Sport and Culture. The parties outlined practical steps to deepen cooperation in the field of education and implement joint youth programmes.

The expansion of cultural exchange and sports cooperation is seen as an important element in further rapprochement between Turkmenistan and the European Union, complementing technological and economic partnership.