EU "encouraged" by deeper Turkmen energy ties

BRUSSELS, Nov 16 (Reuters) - The European Union is encouraged by the chances of stronger energy ties with Turkmenistan and urges EU companies to make proposals to invest there, Energy Commissioner Andris Piebalgs said on Friday.

After a visit to Ashgabat aimed at deepening ties between Turkmenistan and the 27-nation EU, Piebalgs expressed optimism about the possibilities for EU companies to invest in the energy sector there, especially offshore gas exploration.

"I am very encouraged by the signs of openness confirmed by the Turkmen side with regard to further possibilities for European energy companies to increase their presence in the energy sector of Turkmenistan," he said in a statement.

"The opportunities and framework for investments were presented in detail by the Turkmen authorities during the visit and I strongly invite our companies to come forward with concrete proposals."

Turkmenistan, locked away under Soviet rule and then the 21-year reign of former present Saparmurat Niyazov, is opening up to investors under its more reformist leader, Kurbanguly Berdymukhamedov, who came to power almost a year ago.

The EU is trying to reduce its energy dependence on Russia, which supplies about 25 percent of the bloc's gas. (Reporting by Jeff Mason)