Turkmenistan and Georgia have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral ties in trade, energy, and regional peace efforts. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze met on March 7 to discuss cooperation on multiple fronts, highlighting economic and diplomatic collaborations that could reshape connectivity between Central Asia and the Black Sea region.
Strengthening Economic Cooperation
Economic and trade collaboration was high on the agenda during the discussions. Both leaders emphasized the importance of boosting economic exchanges, particularly in energy, industry, and healthcare. Turkmenistan has positioned itself as a key energy supplier, and Georgia’s strategic location as a transit country offers promising opportunities for enhancing trade flow between Europe and Asia.
One of the significant aspects of the meeting was the potential expansion of Turkmenistan’s energy exports through Georgia. With Georgia’s role as a critical corridor for regional trade, the two nations explored avenues to facilitate smoother transportation of Turkmen gas and oil towards European markets. This cooperation aligns with Georgia’s broader objective of becoming a pivotal hub in regional energy transit.
Transport and Logistics: A Shared Vision
Transport and logistics remain at the core of Turkmen-Georgian relations. The leaders discussed several projects aimed at enhancing connectivity between the Caspian and Black Seas. Turkmenistan has expressed strong interest in key initiatives, including:
- The Black Sea-Caspian Sea transport route – a corridor designed to strengthen trade between Central Asia and Europe.
- The Lapis Lazuli Corridor – a project connecting Afghanistan, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Turkey, facilitating trade and investment.
- Green Ports Initiative – a sustainability-focused transport development concept aimed at reducing environmental impact in maritime logistics.
Both sides acknowledged the significance of these projects in fostering greater regional integration and economic development.
Cultural and Humanitarian Ties Take Center Stage
Beyond trade and infrastructure, Turkmenistan and Georgia are also looking to expand cultural and educational exchanges. President Berdimuhamedov stressed the importance of strengthening cultural, scientific, and educational ties between the two nations. The leaders expressed support for joint initiatives such as art exhibitions, academic collaborations, and student exchange programs.
Turkmenistan’s focus on cultural diplomacy was further underscored by its proposal to hold joint cultural festivals and conferences, enhancing people-to-people connections and fostering mutual understanding.
Regional Stability and Peacekeeping Cooperation
The discussions also touched on international peace initiatives, with both leaders recognizing the need for greater regional stability. Georgia expressed strong support for Turkmenistan’s neutrality-based foreign policy and its diplomatic efforts to maintain peace in Central Asia.
A key highlight was Turkmenistan’s initiative to designate 2025 as the “International Year of Peace and Trust,” a resolution adopted by the United Nations. As part of this effort, Ashgabat will host a high-profile international peace forum on December 12, coinciding with the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s recognition as a neutral state by the UN. President Berdimuhamedov extended an official invitation to Prime Minister Kobakhidze to attend this event, further solidifying Turkmenistan’s leadership in diplomatic engagement.
Agreements to Boost Bilateral Relations
During the meeting, both sides emphasized the importance of formalizing agreements that would bolster their partnership. Key bilateral documents were prepared for signing, signifying a commitment to structured and forward-looking cooperation. These agreements are expected to provide fresh momentum to trade, transport, and diplomatic engagement between the two countries.
As discussions wrapped up, both leaders reaffirmed their mutual interest in fostering long-term, mutually beneficial relations. The talks highlighted the strategic significance of Turkmenistan-Georgia ties, paving the way for strengthened partnerships in multiple sectors that could have far-reaching impacts on the region’s economic and geopolitical landscape.
