Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Belgium Sapar Palvanov, and Deputy Director-General of the European Commission's Directorate-General for Migration and Home Affairs (DG HOME) Johannes Luchner discussed future areas of cooperation on migration, mobility and visa policy, the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Belgium reported on Friday.
During the meeting, the Turkmen side expressed interest in establishing direct working contacts between the State Migration Service of Turkmenistan, DG HOME and the competent authorities of EU member states. It was noted that such cooperation would help accelerate information exchange, effectively address documentation and consular issues, and better protect the interests of Turkmen citizens living or traveling abroad.
The parties also reviewed opportunities to facilitate mutual travel. In particular, they discussed ongoing consultations on simplifying the visa regime for holders of diplomatic and service passports between Turkmenistan and the Benelux countries, improving the conditions for issuing multiple-entry Schengen visas and strengthening consular cooperation.
The parties also reviewed preparations for the Partnership and Enhanced Cooperation Agreement between Turkmenistan and the European Union.
At the conclusion of the meeting, the EU side highly appreciated the Turkmen side's interest in expanding cooperation and confirmed DG HOME's readiness to continue working contacts, hold preliminary consultations and exchange information.
