In recent diplomatic moves, Turkmenistan has shown increased interest in developing the Central Asia + cooperation format, marking a shift from its historically cautious approach to multilateral structures. While Turkmenistan has traditionally been reserved in joining formal alliances, the country’s recent active discussions with external actors indicate a new phase in its foreign policy strategy writes Eldaniz Gusseinov, regional expert in geopolitics.
One of the notable instances of Turkmenistan’s engagement with the Central Asia + format took place during a meeting between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan and a high-level delegation from Italy. The meeting, which was led by Italian Foreign Minister Federico Failla, focused on creating multilateral cooperation networks between Central Asian countries and Italy. This was part of a broader discussion on strengthening ties through the “Action Plan for Creating Networks of Multilateral Cooperation.”
According to Gusseinov, the development of the Central Asia + format aligns with Turkmenistan’s strategic interests. “This approach might seem unexpected, but upon closer examination, it becomes clear that it serves Turkmenistan’s long-term goals of maintaining its neutrality while increasing its influence,” Gusseinov explained. “The format automatically includes Turkmenistan due to its geographical location, enhancing the country’s role in regional and international dialogue without needing to commit to formal alliances.”
The inclusion of Turkmenistan in the Central Asia + format brings several advantages. First, it provides Turkmenistan an opportunity to engage equally with other regional powers in discussions with major external actors. The format also broadens the country’s diplomatic reach.
“Through this cooperation, Turkmenistan can build closer ties with key players like the European Union, Japan, and Germany, which might otherwise have been difficult to achieve,” Gusseinov noted. “This opens up new markets, technologies, and investment opportunities, all critical for the country’s economic development and foreign relations diversification.”
The format also boosts Turkmenistan’s standing among its regional neighbors and international partners. “Participation in multilateral meetings gives Turkmenistan the chance to showcase its commitment to solving regional challenges, including issues like the situation in Afghanistan,” Gusseinov added. “It allows the country to demonstrate its willingness to contribute to collective initiatives, thereby enhancing its credibility and influence.”
The Central Asia + format could also give Turkmenistan’s smaller neighbors, such as Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, an opportunity to elevate their international profiles.
“While countries like Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan are often in the spotlight in Central Asia, the ‘Central Asia +’ format offers a platform for all the countries in the region to engage more deeply with the international community,” Gusseinov emphasized.
However, despite the growing interest in this format, Gusseinov remains cautiously skeptical about its future. “While the concept of ‘Central Asia +’ holds potential, its long-term viability will depend on sustained international interest and commitment. Nonetheless, while the interest exists, Turkmenistan should make the most of this opportunity,” he concluded.
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