Turkmenistan, Ashgabat, Jan.24 / Trend, H. Hasanov /
Receiving Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister, the president's special envoy for the Caspian Sea Mohammad Mehdi Akhundzade in Ashgabat, Turkmen President Gurbanguly Berdimuhammadov stressed "the need for a coordinated, mutually acceptable decision on the status of this unique basin," the Turkmen government said on Tuesday.
Mr Berdimuhammadov noted the high level of Turkmen-Iranian relations which have rapidly developed in recent years. He said: "Like all other partners, Turkmenistan is interested that the Caspian region is developed in an atmosphere of peace and stability."
It is widely known that in recent years, certain successes were achieved in negotiations on the Caspian agenda Mr Berdimuhammadov acknowledged emphasising "the importance of continuing consultations for further approximation between the Caspian states and the rapid resolution of all issues related to the legal status of the Caspian Sea, which meets long-term interests of five neighbouring states. Turkmenistan stands for constructive dialogue in the zone of the Caspian basin."
"Steadily realising a foreign policy course based on the principles of wide international cooperation and a balance of national and common interests, an independent neutral Turkmenistan stands for constructive dialogue in the zone of the Caspian basin, enhancing effective partnership both bilaterally and multilaterally," Mr Berdimuhammadov said, expressing confidence that the strengthening of relations between the littoral states will be an important factor in achieving sustainable development throughout the region.
Iran's senior official conveyed greetings from President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, who said: "Iran's strong interest is in the further enhancing of interstate dialogue."