Visiting Turkmenistan OSCE Chairman notes importance of starting political reforms and democratisation

ASHGABAD, 29 March 2006 - The Chairman-in-Office of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, Belgian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Karel De Gucht, paid a visit to Turkmenistan on 29 March.

In meetings with President Saparmurat Niyazov, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Rashid Meredov, and the Speaker of the Parliament, Avezgeldy Atayev, the Belgian Minister, who was very critical about the overall situation, urged them "to continue improving co-operation with the OSCE's Institutions and units", recalling that the OSCE is based on common values.

Minister De Gucht noted the importance of Turkmenistan's role in the OSCE in his discussions with President Niyazov. He called on the Government to "devote increased attention to the Human Dimension" and noted that "it is important to start political reforms and democratisation."

When speaking with the President and Foreign Minister about the need to amend the national legislation in order to bring it into compliance with international conventions, the Chairman-in-Office assured them that "the OSCE stands ready to provide advice and assistance to legislators on the criminal procedural code."

The Chairman-in-Office raised the issue of four individuals who either have been detained or cannot leave the country. President Niyazov gave a firm commitment to seriously examine these cases and solve them. The Belgian Minister also stressed the need for international organizations to have unlimited access to prisoners.

To enable Turkmenistan to maintain its place in the international community through improvements in the educational system, the Chairman-in-Office reiterated the willingness of the OSCE to support the education sector, and emphasized participation in exchange programmes.

The Chairman-in-Office also invited deputies to participate in meetings of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly this July.

In his meetings, the Minister said democratisation was a process and urged the Government to organize free and open local elections this July, in compliance with the country's international commitments. "The OSCE's Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights stands ready to help," assured Minister De Gucht.