Progressive nations and international bodies actively invest resources to advance sustainable development initiatives worldwide. Notable projects include the European Commission's Global Gateway initiative, similar to China's Belt and Road initiative, aims to integrate infrastructure, foster green growth, digitize, and enhance healthcare and education systems globally, and invest in all of these to ensure economic and social development.
The European Commission's Global Gateway initiative, launched on December 1, 2021, prioritizes creating high-tech, eco-friendly, secure global connections in digitization, energy, transportation, healthcare, and scientific research. Rooted in respect for social and environmental standards, the rule of law, human rights protection, and fulfilling international obligations that correspond to the priorities and values of the EU, the strategy adheres to six principles: democratic values and high standards, efficient management and transparency, equal partnership, green growth, security orientation, and private sector support.
The comprehensive Global Gateway strategy allocates support to partner countries in digitization (open and secure internet), climate and energy (supporting the transition to clean energy through investments), transportation modernization (supporting green, modern, and safe transportation systems), healthcare system reinforcement (strengthening supply chains and local vaccine producers), and education and research development (supporting and directing investments in the development of partner countries in education and research), including support for women in higher education. As part of implementing the global initiative, the European Group will allocate over €300 billion of financial resources from 2021 to 2027. The Group includes the European Union and its member states, including implementing agencies such as the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD).
The inaugural Global Gateway Forum held on October 25-26, 2023, in Brussels gathered over 40 high-ranking representatives from governments, financial institutions, and businesses. They discussed global investment needs, launched new initiatives, and strengthened long-term partnerships. The Turkmen delegation, led by Minister of Finance and Economy Serdar Jorayev, highlighted Turkmenistan's infrastructure development and emphasized international projects' role in diversifying transportation and energy routes, reinforcing regional connections and energy security.
Central Asia's increasing strategic importance attracts countries worldwide. In this regard, the region's immense potential, especially in transportation and energy, opens up broad opportunities for cooperation. The upcoming investment forum on sustainable transport between the EU and Central Asia on January 29-30 in Brussels aligns with the Global Gateway initiative. The event aims to foster negotiations, business meetings, and cooperation with European companies for impactful projects in the transportation sector.
Merdan Jumayev,
Specialist in the National Economy of Turkmenistan
