Policy
Turkmenistan marks the 35th anniversary of its independence with achievements and prospects
16.07.2026In 2026, Turkmenistan will mark the 35th anniversary of its independence. Over this period, the country has developed its own model of political, socio-economic and cultural development, strengthened its international ties and implemented large-scale infrastructure projects. This was reported by the news agency TDH. Turkmenistan currently maintains diplomatic relations with 161 states and cooperates with 55 international and regional organisations. The country’s foreign policy is based on the principles of neutrality, equality, mutual respect and mutually beneficial cooperation. Turkmenistan’s permanent neutrality was recognised by the UN General Assembly in 1995, 2015 and 2025. This status shapes the country’s foreign policy strategy and its participation in international initiatives aimed at strengthening Peace and Trust. On 26 May 2026, Turkmenistan spoke on behalf of the Group of Friends of Neutrality at a high-level open debate in the UN Security Council. The principle of ‘The State is for the People!’ occupies an important place in state policy. The social orientation of development is reflected, in particular, in the structure of investment: in the first half of 2026, 54.9 per cent of funds utilised were allocated to social and cultural projects, whilst 45.1 per cent went towards industrial facilities. Since gaining independence, Turkmenistan has been implementing reforms aimed at diversifying the economy, developing the private sector, modernising industry and expanding export potential. Within the framework of national development programmes, particular attention is paid to industrialisation, digital transformation and the introduction of innovative technologies. The gas sector continues to play a significant role in the economy. The country is developing the gas chemical industry and the production of high value-added products. In Ovadandepe, there is a GTL plant producing Euro-5 standard ECO-93 petrol, liquefied petroleum gas and diesel fuel. Projects to expand natural gas processing are also underway. The electricity sector is also developing. Turkmenistan meets its domestic needs and exports electricity to neighbouring states. Alongside conventional energy sources, the country is developing renewable energy sources, including a hybrid solar-wind power station project in the Balkan velayat. In the chemical industry, plants have been established to produce nitrogen and phosphate fertilisers. These include the Garabogaz Urea-Ammonia Plant, the Mary and Tejen Urea Plants, and the Turkmenabat Chemical Plant. Projects to construct new production facilities are being implemented in collaboration with foreign partners. The textile industry remains one of the key sectors. The country is home to full-cycle enterprises, cotton-spinning and weaving plants, as well as garment, silk-processing and footwear factories. Turkmen textiles are exported to dozens of countries around the world. Since independence, agriculture has been transformed into a major agro-industrial complex. Reforms are being carried out in the area of management, and market mechanisms and resource-saving technologies are being introduced. The main objectives remain ensuring food security, developing processing and increasing export potential. Significant changes have taken place in the transport and communications sector. Major projects include the Turkmenbashi International Seaport, Ashgabat International Airport, the ‘Kazakhstan–Turkmenistan–Iran’ railway, the ‘Ashgabat–Turkmenabat’ motorway and the national telecommunications satellite ‘TürkmenÄlem 52°E’. The country continues to develop its transport infrastructure and strengthen its position as a Eurasian transit hub. Over the past 35 years, the appearance of Turkmenistan’s towns and villages has changed. New residential complexes, settlements and social facilities have been built in the regions. The city of Arkadag, established on the initiative of the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, holds a special place. In accordance with the ‘Concept for the Development of the City of Arkadag for 2024–2052’, the construction of the city’s second phase is underway, comprising more than 220 facilities built to digital standards. The historical and cultural monuments of Ancient Merv, Kunya-Urgench and the fortress of Ancient Nisa are included on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity also includes the epic art of ‘Gorogly’, the art of ‘kushtdepdi’, traditional Turkmen carpet-weaving and embroidery, the art of making and playing the dutar, as well as the art of breeding Ahal-Teke horses and the traditions of their adornment. Thus, over the 35 years of its independence, Turkmenistan has strengthened its international standing, developed its industry, transport and social infrastructure, expanded cultural cooperation and laid the foundations for further economic and social development.
Turkmenistan and Germany discussed the development of trade and economic cooperation
16.07.2026On 15 July 2026, a meeting took place at the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan between Myahri Byashimova, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan, and Michael Harms, Executive Director of the German Committee on Eastern European Economic Relations. This was reported by the press office of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The parties noted the high level of friendly relations between Turkmenistan and the Federal Republic of Germany and discussed the further development of cooperation. The main focus was on expanding trade and economic ties, including the introduction of German technologies into Turkmenistan’s industry, cooperation in the energy sector, the development of renewable energy sources and the efficient use of water resources. They also explored opportunities for joint infrastructure projects, taking into account Turkmenistan’s transit and logistics potential, and ways to strengthen cooperation with German financial institutions. Following the meeting, the parties reaffirmed their interest in further expanding bilateral dialogue.
A meeting of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan will take place in September
16.07.2026On 15 July 2026, the Presidium of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan adopted a Resolution to convene a session of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the online news site AsmanNews. According to the document, the session will take place on 23 September 2026 in Ashgabat at the ‘Maslahat köşgi’ Palace. The Halk Maslahaty of the velayats and the city of Ashgabat must submit to the Secretariat of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, by 1 September 2026, lists of public representatives to be included in the composition of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan from the velayats, the city of Ashgabat and the city of Arkadag. The Resolution was signed by Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan.
An Organising Committee has been set up in Turkmenistan to organise the meeting of the Halk Maslahaty
16.07.2026On 15 July 2026, the Presidium of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan adopted a Resolution on the establishment of an Organising Committee to hold a high-level session of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan to mark the 35th anniversary of the country’s independence. This was reported by the news agency TDH. According to the document, the composition of the Organising Committee has been approved. The Secretariat of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, in conjunction with the Mejlis of Turkmenistan, has been tasked with providing organisational and methodological support to the velayat, etrap and city Halk Maslahaty in the preparation and conduct of the session, as well as coordinating the relevant work. The Resolution was signed by Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan.
Hero Arkadag addressed a meeting of the Presidium of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan
16.07.2026On 15 July, at a meeting of the Presidium of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, outlined the main tasks for preparing for the 35th anniversary of the country’s independence and for holding the next session of the Halk Maslahaty. This was reported by the online news portal AsmanNews. The National Leader of the Turkmen people noted that at an extended meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan on 10 July, the results of the country’s socio-economic development for the first half of 2026 were summarised. During the meeting, the President of Turkmenistan instructed that preparations be made for the independence anniversary and for the Halk Maslahaty meeting to be held at a high level. Hero Arkadag emphasised that in September, Turkmenistan will mark the 35th anniversary of its independence. As part of the preparations for the celebrations, the Law of Turkmenistan ‘On the Approval of the Turkmenistan Jubilee Medal “Türkmenistanyň Garaşsyzlygynyň 35 ýyllygyna bagyşlanyp geçirilen dabaraly harby ýörişe gatnaşyja”’ was adopted. The Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan announced that, during the independence celebrations, a session of the Halk Maslahaty would be held to review the work carried out, the results achieved and the tasks required to meet contemporary demands. Furthermore, Hero Arkadag highlighted the participation of Turkmen youth in international events in Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Turkey and other countries. Meetings and events on horse breeding were also organised in the United States of America, the People’s Republic of China, the United Kingdom and the Republic of Tatarstan. The ‘Galkynyş’ national equestrian games group showcased Turkmen equestrian art in Azerbaijan and Turkey, whilst Turkmen riders secured podium places at competitions in Kazan. The speech also outlined objectives for the country’s further socio-economic development. Officials have been instructed to analyse measures to maintain economic stability, develop industries, implement investment projects and improve the standard of living of the population. Priorities include job creation, the development of youth policy, the strengthening of the social protection system, the introduction of new teaching methods, the training of specialists, the modernisation of the oil and gas, chemical, construction, energy, textile and agricultural sectors, as well as ensuring food security. Hero Arkadag emphasised that the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan must continue to work in cooperation with the Mejlis, the Government, state bodies and public organisations, focusing on the implementation of state programmes and the preparation of new proposals. In accordance with Article 19 of the Constitutional Law of Turkmenistan ‘On the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan’ the Secretariat of Halk Maslahaty, together with the Organising Committee, has been tasked with organising explanatory events, preparing the agenda for the session, the necessary documents and materials, ensuring coordination with state bodies, considering citizens’ appeals and working on proposals to award honours to deserving compatriots. In conclusion, the Hero Arkadag noted that the Halk Maslahaty faces the tasks of further developing the country and implementing programmes for socio-economic growth. He emphasised the need to develop new initiatives aimed at ensuring the well-being of the population and creating comfortable living conditions for citizens. The National Leader of the Turkmen people announced the start of preparations for organising a high-level session of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan and expressed his confidence in the successful conduct of the forthcoming socio-political event.
Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan held political consultations in Ashgabat
15.07.2026On 14 July 2026, a further round of political consultations took place in Ashgabat between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan. This was reported by the press office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The Turkmen delegation was led by Rashid Meredov, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, whilst the Uzbek delegation was led by Bakhtiyor Saidov, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan. During the meeting, the parties discussed the current state and prospects for the development of the Turkmen-Uzbek strategic partnership, as well as issues relating to the strengthening of political and diplomatic cooperation. The importance of regular high-level contacts for the further development of bilateral relations was emphasised. Particular attention was paid to cooperation within the framework of the UN, the CIS, the OIC, the ECO and the Non-Aligned Movement, as well as to the coordination of positions on topical issues on the regional and international agenda. The parties considered ways of improving the legal and treaty framework, expanding inter-parliamentary and inter-regional ties, and developing cooperation between the relevant ministries of the two countries. In the economic sphere, they discussed prospects for expanding trade and investment cooperation, and for enhancing the effectiveness of the Joint Turkmen-Uzbek Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technical and Cultural Cooperation. Issues relating to transport and transit cooperation, the development of international corridors, logistics infrastructure, industry, agriculture, energy and the digital economy were also addressed. Particular attention was paid to cultural and humanitarian ties. The parties noted the development of cooperation in the fields of education, science, culture, healthcare, youth policy and sport, reaffirming their interest in expanding exchanges and joint projects. A signing ceremony for bilateral documents took place as part of the consultations.
The Foreign Ministers of Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan discussed ways to develop cooperation
15.07.2026On 14 July, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Rashid Meredov held a meeting in Ashgabat with Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan Bakhtiyor Saidov. The parties discussed the state of and prospects for bilateral cooperation, according to the press office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The foreign ministers noted the strong momentum in Turkmen-Uzbek relations and emphasised the role of regular contacts at the highest state level in developing the partnership. Particular attention was paid to the implementation of previously reached agreements and joint projects in the trade and economic, transport and logistics, energy and industrial sectors. The development of cultural and humanitarian cooperation, including collaboration in the fields of science, education and the arts, was also discussed. Furthermore, the ministers exchanged views on topical issues on the regional and international agenda, reaffirming their shared approaches to ensuring peace, stability and sustainable development in Central Asia.
Turkmenistan and ASEAN discussed prospects for cooperation in Jakarta
15.07.2026On 14 July, Ahmet Gurbanov, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, held meetings in Jakarta with Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), and Dyah Roro Esti Widya Putri, Deputy Minister of Trade of the Republic of Indonesia. This was reported by the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. During the talks with ASEAN leaders, the parties discussed the development of cooperation in the fields of transport, energy, trade, investment, the digital economy, innovation, education, science, tourism and cultural and humanitarian exchanges. Issues relating to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals, adaptation to climate change, ensuring food and energy security, digital transformation and skills development were also discussed. At the meeting with the Deputy Minister of Trade of the Republic of Indonesia, the main focus was on expanding trade and economic ties, cooperation between chambers of commerce and industry and business communities, holding joint forums and exhibitions, and developing cooperation in transport and logistics. As part of the visit, the first political consultations took place between the foreign ministries of Turkmenistan and the Republic of Indonesia. The parties discussed the state of bilateral relations, the international and regional agenda, and new areas of cooperation. Particular attention was paid to the development of political contacts, inter-parliamentary cooperation, collaboration between relevant ministries, and the strengthening of cooperation within international organisations. The parties also considered the prospects for expanding Turkmenistan’s partnership with ASEAN, including the initiative to establish a ‘Central Asia + ASEAN’ dialogue format, as well as the development of cooperation in the trade, economic, transport, educational, scientific and cultural spheres.
The President of Turkmenistan received the Uzbek Foreign Minister
15.07.2026On 14 July, the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, met with the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Bakhtiyor Saidov, who had arrived in the country on an official visit. This was reported by the news agency TDH. The guest conveyed greetings and best wishes from the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, to the Head of the Turkmen State, as well as to the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. Serdar Berdimuhamedov extended his own best wishes to the Uzbek leader and noted that the visit opens up new opportunities for the development of bilateral cooperation. The parties emphasised the high level of trust and mutual respect in Turkmen-Uzbek relations, which serves as the foundation for their strategic partnership. The countries actively cooperate within the framework of the UN, the CIS, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and other international bodies, providing mutual support for initiatives in the fields of peace and sustainable development. The President of Turkmenistan spoke highly of cooperation within the ‘Central Asia+’ regional frameworks. During the meeting, it was noted that, during Turkmenistan’s chairmanship of the CIS, the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone will host a meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Commonwealth and a consultative meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia and Azerbaijan. Furthermore, it was emphasised that particular attention is being paid to trade and economic cooperation, primarily in the energy, transport and logistics sectors. This work is coordinated by the Joint Turkmen-Uzbek Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technical and Cultural Cooperation. The interlocutors also emphasised the importance of cultural and humanitarian ties, based on historical bonds of friendship and shared spiritual values. At the conclusion of the meeting, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov reaffirmed Turkmenistan’s readiness to further develop fruitful cooperation with Uzbekistan.
Turkmenistan and Indonesia: a new phase in the development of their bilateral partnership
14.07.2026On 13 July, Ahmet Gurbanov, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan, arrived in Indonesia on a working visit, where he held negotiations with Muhammad Anis Matta, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of the Republic of Indonesia. This was reported by the press office of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The diplomats discussed key issues on the bilateral agenda and emphasised the importance of regular political consultations for strengthening inter-state dialogue. The parties paid particular attention to close cooperation within the framework of the UN and the prospects for Turkmenistan’s partnership with ASEAN. In particular, they noted the significance of the initiative to establish a new ‘Central Asia + ASEAN’ dialogue format to strengthen inter-regional ties. The meeting also explored opportunities to expand trade and economic relations, boost investment and implement joint projects. Furthermore, the diplomats agreed to develop cultural and humanitarian ties by facilitating direct contacts between universities and research organisations in both countries.
The President of Turkmenistan has congratulated France on its national holiday
14.07.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, has congratulated the President of the French Republic, Emmanuel Macron, and the people of France on their national holiday — Bastille Day. This was reported by the news agency TDH. In his message of congratulations, the Turkmen Head of State wished President Emmanuel Macron good health and happiness, and the people of France peace and prosperity.
A delegation from the Uzbek Foreign Affairs Ministry has arrived in Ashgabat
14.07.2026A delegation from Uzbekistan, led by Foreign Affairs Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov, has arrived in Ashgabat. The main purpose of the visit is to hold political consultations between the foreign ministries of the two countries as part of efforts to strengthen their strategic partnership, according to IIC of Turkmenistan. On the first day of the programme, the delegation visited historical and cultural sites in Turkmenistan. Representatives of the Uzbek Foreign Affairs Ministry laid flowers at the Monument to Independence in Turkmenistan and visited the ‘Magtymguly Pyragy’ cultural and park complex, where they paid tribute to the memory of the great Uzbek poet and thinker Alisher Navoi. The guests also visited the State Museum of the State Cultural Centre of Turkmenistan, where they viewed archaeological finds and ethnographic exhibits. The cultural programme concluded with a visit to the Ashgabat Equestrian Sports Complex, where a display of Ahal-Teke horses took place. On the second day of the visit, negotiations between the delegations of the two countries are scheduled to take place at the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. Following the meetings, a number of joint documents are expected to be signed.
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