Turkmenistan's President Serdar Berdimuhamedow hosted Mark Bowman, the Vice President of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), in Ashgabat on Thursday, as reported by Turkmenistan's official media.
Expressing gratitude for the time given by the Turkmen leader, Mark Bowman emphasized European partners' interest in expanding traditional relations with Turkmenistan.
President Serdar Berdimuhamedow highlighted Turkmenistan's significant focus on strengthening mutually beneficial international cooperation, including productive ties with reputable financial institutions and banking structures.
The meeting also addressed cooperation in the energy sector, with Turkmenistan expressing interest in diversifying collaboration in this field due to its abundant natural resources.
Both the President of Turkmenistan and the Vice President of the EBRD underscored the importance of developing international transport routes via the Caspian Sea, necessitating the efficient utilization of relevant resources. They also noted substantial potential for expanding opportunities at the Turkmenbashi International Seaport, which serves as a bridge between Europe and Asia.
The Head of State confirmed Turkmenistan's readiness to consider specific proposals from the EBRD for participation in projects aimed at creating transport-transit corridors.
Discussions also centered on activating effective cooperation between banks and the private sector of Turkmenistan and the EBRD. Special attention was given to strengthening ties in providing credit for small and medium-sized enterprises, as well as offering advisory services in this area.
At the conclusion of the meeting, President Serdar Berdimuhamedow and EBRD Vice President Mark Bowman expressed confidence in the continued constructive bilateral partnership, built on a long-term mutually beneficial basis.