23/06/2025 (Agence Europe) – On 17 June, during the annual dialogue on human rights between the EU and Turkmenistan, the European Union reiterated that respect for these rights remained “an essential guiding principle” for the development of bilateral relations. In a press release issued on 19 June, the European External Action Service (EEAS) explained that the EU had in particular urged Turkmenistan to adopt effective measures to combat discrimination and sexual and gender-based violence. Concerns were also expressed about the conditions of detention of people deprived of their freedom, enforced disappearances and the lack of internet access for all Turkmen citizens. The two sides agreed to strengthen their cooperation, with the next dialogue scheduled to take place in Ashgabat in 2026. (PLD)