2010-02-09 19:24:01
WAM Abu Dhabi, Feb 09th, 2010 (WAM) -- A joint statement was issued at the conclusion of talks between President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and President Gurbanguly Berdymukhamedov, President of Turkmenistan.

The following is the text of the statement:.

"At the invitation of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, President of Turkmenistan made an official visit to the United Arab Emirates during the period from 9 to 10 February 2010.

During the visit, talks were held between the President of the United Arab Emirates and the President of Turkmenistan that took place in an atmosphere of friendship and understanding. The two Heads of States exchanged views on the current situation of bilateral cooperation and prospects for its development in various fields. The two leaders also discussed current issues in international relations.

The two presidents stressed that in order to further develop political dialogue between Turkmenistan and the United Arab Emirates, the strengthening of bilateral relations in various fields is necessary. In this regard, both sides have expressed their desire to interact on a bilateral level and on the sidelines of the United Nations and other international organizations.

The two sides also noted the availability of a large potential for intensifying the UAE-Turkmen partnership in various sectors of the economies of both the countries. Special attention was given to explore possibilities for developing priority sectors for the economies of the two countries, especially in the fields of oil '&' gas, re-refining and chemical industries as well as in sectors of energy, trade, construction, transport and communication, the textile industry, agriculture and other areas of mutual interest.

The UAE and Turkmenistan seek to achieve greater trade and economic activity for companies and other bodies through the creation of legal and regulatory environment required to provide appropriate support.

A number of agreements and memoranda of understanding were also signed as follow:.

1. Memorandum of understanding on trade, economy and technology cooperation.

2. Memorandum of Understanding between the UAE Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan.

3. Air Services Agreement between their respective territories and beyond, which will work as a solid basis for long-term extensive cooperation, economic relations and prospects.

The two leaders also took into account, the advanced level of bilateral relations between the peoples of both countries based on the similarity and convergence of cultural and historical peculiarities.

In this regard, the two leaders decided to support the exchange of visits in order to exchange experiences between educational institutions, authorities and scientific research institutes and cultural establishments.

After an exchange of views with respect to the current global issues, the two sides confirmed their mutual determination to promote peace, security and stability on the global and regional levels. Then they pointed to the importance of the role of the United Nations as a global body aimed at resolving social, political and economic issues.

The two parties also noted the need to work to increase cooperation in the combat against terrorism, narcotic drugs, organized crimes and the modern challenges and threats. They also expressed their mutual intention for the exchange of consultations at various levels. In this regard, the two sides will exchange visits by delegations consisting of government officials, as well as organizations, corporations and private companies in both countries.

The President of Turkmenistan hailed the efforts of the UAE for hosting the headquarters of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), as well as the success of the future energy summit which was held in the country.

HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan hailed the foreign policy of Turkmenistan and its positive role in guaranteeing peace and stability at the regional and international levels.

In conclusion, the President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov expressed sincere thanks to President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan for the warm reception, and invited him to visit Turkmenistan. HH President accepted the invitation and the visit will be scheduled through diplomatic channels".

WAM/AB