Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Ahmet Gurbanov held a meeting today with Ambassador Kairat Sarybay, the Secretary General of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA). At the outset of the discussion, the Turkmen side extended a warm welcome to the guest, expressing gratitude for his participation in the international forum dedicated to the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s Permanent Neutrality. This visit underscores the strong diplomatic ties between the nation and the regional organization.

During the talks, both parties reviewed the current state and future prospects of cooperation between Turkmenistan and CICA. It was emphasized that since gaining observer status in 2021, Turkmenistan has consistently supported CICA's mission to promote peace, security, and stability across the Asian continent. The diplomats highlighted the importance of strengthening political dialogue and implementing confidence-building measures as essential tools for regional integration and prosperity.

Special attention was given to the initiatives regarding the establishment of a permanent forum on security, peace, and development in Central Asia. The meeting served as a platform to discuss promising areas of collaboration, such as energy security, transport logistics, and environmental protection. Furthermore, the implementation of the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy within the CICA framework was a key topic of discussion, aimed at consolidating regional efforts against modern threats.

The ongoing situation in Afghanistan also remained a priority during the deliberations. The officials noted the vital importance of providing continued humanitarian and economic assistance to the Afghan people and enhancing cooperation in the field of food security. Concluding the meeting, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further developing bilateral relations and expressed a shared desire to elevate the partnership within CICA to a more strategic and multifaceted level.