Two international experts are delivering the 15-day field training course, which focuses on patrolling and covert surveillance skills and techniques. The course complements wider OSCE efforts to fight drug trafficking in the region.

"The geographical location of Turkmenistan and the challenges faced by the State Border Service require qualified staff and professional and effective border management," said Ambassador Arsim Zekolli, the Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat. "This course contributes to the professional development of Turkmenistan border guards in this specific field."

The project comprises two training courses for a total of 24 officials from the State Border Service by the end of November. The OSCE Borders Team and the OSCE Office in Ashgabat developed the courses in response to a 2007 OSCE Ministerial Council Decision on engagement with Afghanistan. The project is financed by Japan, an OSCE Partner for Co-operation.