Central Asia and Turkmenistan serve as a stable and secure link between Europe and Asia. This was stated by Philippe Léglise-Costoye, Permanent Representative of France to the European Union, at a meeting with Sapar Palvanov, Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Belgium, according to the press service of the Turkmen diplomatic mission.

"The French diplomat expressed support for the constructive initiatives being implemented within the framework of cooperation with the European Union and emphasized the importance of Central Asia and Turkmenistan as a stable and secure link between Europe and Asia," the statement said.

During the meeting, the parties discussed current issues of cooperation within the EU, as well as prospects for further development of cooperation between Turkmenistan and the European Union in priority areas. The parties emphasized that strategic interregional cooperation between the EU and Central Asia should be reflected in practical bilateral cooperation between Turkmenistan and the European Union.

The Ambassador of Turkmenistan noted that the country is consistently pursuing a course aimed at strengthening its role as a reliable, stable, and responsible part of the space of intercontinental connectivity, making a practical contribution to the development of sustainable ties between Central Asia and Europe.

During the conversation, an exchange of views took place on such pressing issues as energy, critical raw materials, and the climate agenda. The parties noted with satisfaction the positive dynamics of bilateral relations between Turkmenistan and France, emphasizing the friendly nature of contacts and the existence of a constructive dialogue at a high level.

Following the meeting, mutual interest in further expanding cooperation was confirmed, and support was expressed for the Turkmen side's initiatives aimed at strengthening dialogue between Central Asia and the European Union.