Iran’s Foreign Minister, Hossein Amirabdollahian, who has travelled to Turkmenistan, met and held talks with Rashid Meredov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan on March 28, 2024.  In this meeting, the two sides exchanged views over various aspects of bilateral relations, as well as regional and international developments.  During the meeting, the top Iranian diplomat emphasized the expansion of cooperation between the two countries in the fields of energy, transit, and transportation.  Amirabdollahian added: “The issue of water resources management is also important in our region, and it is imperative for the two countries to continue cooperation in this regard.”  Amirabdollahian referred to the Caspian Sea as an area for constructive cooperation between the coastal countries. He highlighted the importance of communication between the two countries in this sea, aligning with the mutual interests of both parties. Amirabdollahian further considered the continuation of discussions on legal, security, and economic issues of the Caspian Sea necessary. Additionally, he expressed Iran’s readiness to host the third economic conference of Caspian coastal countries at the level of prime ministers.  The top Iranian diplomat also criticized the actions of some third parties seeking a military presence in the Caspian Sea, stating that it goes against the interests of the region.  Meredov, for his part, referred to the positive bilateral relations and considered the meetings of senior officials of the two countries, including presidents and foreign ministers, as a sign of strong ties and bonds between the two countries.  Meredov emphasized the continuation of cooperation between the two countries in international organizations.  He also described the Caspian Sea as a sea of peace, understanding, and cooperation.  The foreign ministers of the two countries also emphasized increasing economic cooperation in the Caspian Sea and increasing the volume of bilateral exchanges. They addressed the serious issue of environmental risks against the Caspian Sea, stating that it should be taken into account.  They highlighted the importance of combating terrorist groups in the region and addressing the threat of extremist groups, emphasizing the need for cooperation regarding border waters.