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India, Turkmenistan Boost Ties: Defence, Trade & SPECA Forum Talks

MEA Secretary (West) Sibi George led a delegation to Ashgabat for the 5th Round of India-Turkmenistan Foreign Office Consultations. The talks comprehensively reviewed bilateral relations, covering political, defence, security, trade, and cultural matters. George also represented India at the SPECA Economic Forum, presenting a vision for enhanced trade and connectivity with Central Asia. The visit underscores India's commitment to its 'Extended Neighbourhood' policy in the region.

Key Points: India-Turkmenistan Talks: Strengthening Defence, Trade & Multilateral Ties

  • Reviewed bilateral defence & security ties
  • Discussed trade-economic cooperation
  • Participated in SPECA Economic Forum
  • Strengthened 'Extended Neighbourhood' policy
2 min read

MEA Secretary Sibi George on Turkmenistan visit, discusses ways to boost India partnership

MEA Secretary Sibi George visits Ashgabat for strategic talks, reviews bilateral relations, and presents India's vision at the SPECA Economic Forum.

"reviewed the entire gamut of bilateral relations - Ministry of External Affairs"

Ashgabat, January 22

India and Turkmenistan reviewed the entire gamut of bilateral relations, comprising of several matters such as defence, security, trade-economic, cultural and Consular matters, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Thursday.

The followed the visit of MEA Secretary (West), Sibi George who led an official delegation to Ashgabat, Turkmenistan for the 5th Round of India-Turkmenistan Foreign Office Consultations and the SPECA (United Nations Special Programme for the Economies of Central Asia) Economic Forum, the Ministry said.

During his visit, George on Wednesday called on the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan and Deputy Chairman of Cabinet of Ministers, Rashid Meredov and conveyed to him warm greetings from External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar. They also discussed ways to further strengthen the mutually beneficial partnership between India and Turkmenistan.

"During the Foreign Office Consultations co-chaired by Secretary (West) and the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Myahri Byashimova, in Ashgabat, the same day, both sides reviewed the entire gamut of bilateral relations including Political, Defence, Security, Trade-Economic, Cultural, Education and Consular matters. The two sides also discussed cooperation under the framework of United Nations and other multilateral fora and exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest", the MEA statement read.

As per the MEA, representing India as a guest country at the SPECA Economic Forum, chaired by the Minister of Finance and Economy of Turkmenistan Mammetguly Astanagulov, Secretary (West) presented India's vision for enhancing trade, economic, investment and connectivity linkages between India and Central Asian countries.

The statement highlighted that the visit of Secretary (West) is in line with India's 'Extended Neighbourhood' policy to strengthen ties with Turkmenistan and other Central Asian countries with which India shares long-standing bonds of friendship and cooperation.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priyanka N
Good to see our diplomacy in action. The 'Extended Neighbourhood' policy makes perfect sense. We need strong partners in Central Asia to counterbalance other influences in the region. Cultural and educational exchanges are just as important as trade.
A
Aman W
While I appreciate the engagement, I hope these discussions lead to tangible outcomes for the common person. More direct flights, easier visas for students and businessmen, and actual trade growth. Sometimes these consultations feel like they're just for the press release.
S
Sarah B
The SPECA forum mention is interesting. India's vision for connectivity with Central Asia is vital, especially with the INSTC corridor. This isn't just about Turkmenistan, it's about integrating with the whole region. Smart foreign policy.
K
Karthik V
Long-standing bonds indeed! We have historical ties through the Silk Road. It's time to revive that in a modern way. Let's get more Indian pharmaceuticals, IT services, and textiles into their markets. Jai Hind!
M
Michael C
Defence and security cooperation is a key takeaway here. A stable and friendly Central Asia is in India's national interest. This visit seems comprehensive, covering all important aspects from politics to consular issues for our citizens there.

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