The Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Vepa Hadjiev and Vice Assistant Secretary of State for Central Asian Affairs, Public Diplomacy and the Press Jonathan Henick discussed the development of trade, economic and investment ties in a videoconference yesterday, the website of the Foreign Ministry of Turkmenistan reports.

During the meeting, the sides confirmed their mutual commitment to the further development of bilateral cooperation in the political, trade, economic and cultural and humanitarian fields.

The sides discussed in detail issues related to regional security and the situation in Afghanistan. The effectiveness of multilateral cooperation formats, such as "Central Asia + the USA" and "Turkmenistan-the USA-Afghanistan", was emphasized.  The possibilities of strengthening the mechanisms for responding to potential threats and challenges, including cross-border crime, were discussed.

The diplomats paid special attention to building up trade, economic and investment ties between Turkmenistan and the United States. In this context, the active work of the Turkmen-American Business Council was noted. It was stressed that the Turkmen side is interested in attracting American investments and technologies in the development of high-tech and innovative industries in Turkmenistan.  Among the priority areas of cooperation are the spheres of industry, energy, transport, as well as agriculture and water management.

The parties placed special emphasis on cooperation in the field of environmental protection and countering climate change.