Policy
A book by the President of Turkmenistan on neutrality was presented in India
07.02.2026On 6 February, the Embassy of Turkmenistan in India hosted an event dedicated to the motto of the year, ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’, and a presentation of the book by the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov ‘Neutrality of Turkmenistan – A Bright Way of Peace and Trust’. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Turkmenistan to India, Shalar Geldinazarov, spoke about the international conferences of 2025 and announced the key events of 2026 in Turkmenistan. The Diplomat emphasised the importance of the new book as a source for studying the country's neutrality and promoting its peaceful foreign policy. The participants congratulated the President of Turkmenistan on the publication of the book and expressed their gratitude for creating conditions for quality education for Turkmen youth.
In January, Turkmenistan received 30 delegations and sent 65 abroad
07.02.2026In January, Turkmenistan was visited by 30 foreign delegations, and the country sent 65 delegations abroad. This was announced by Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister R. Meredov at a meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers, which reviewed the results of work for January 2026, reports TDH. According to Meredov, in international cooperation, special attention is paid to visits and meetings at the highest level. Cooperation with international organisations remains a priority of foreign policy. In January, the Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations visited the country. During the month, 21 digital meetings and 116 official negotiations with foreign countries and international organisations were held. Twelve documents were added to the legal framework. R. Meredov also noted that political consultations with the foreign ministries of other states continued. Issues were discussed with Austria in digital format, and consultations with India, Morocco and Russia were held in Ashgabat. Diplomatic relations continued to develop through embassies. In January, the credentials of the new representative of the Republic of Chad in Turkmenistan were accepted.
The Ambassador of Turkmenistan took part in the celebration of Waitangi Day in New Zealand
07.02.2026The Ambassador of Turkmenistan to New Zealand, A. Bayramov, who is based in Tokyo, took part in official events to mark New Zealand's National Day, Waitangi Day, which is celebrated annually on 6 February. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. During his working visit, the Diplomat held a series of meetings with representatives of the country's leadership, at which issues of strengthening bilateral relations were discussed. At a meeting with New Zealand Governor-General Cindy Kiro, the Ambassador conveyed congratulations on behalf of the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, and the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, and invited her to visit Turkmenistan. A. Bayramov also met with Minister of Foreign Affairs Winston Peters, Minister for Trade and Investment H. Todd McClay and representatives of parliament. The parties discussed the development of political-diplomatic, trade-economic and cultural-humanitarian cooperation. Following the meetings, the parties expressed their readiness to consider holding the first political consultations between the foreign ministries of the two countries, developing interparliamentary cooperation, creating mechanisms for economic cooperation and organising bilateral visits.
Turkmenistan and the UAE discussed expanding economic cooperation
06.02.2026On 2 February, Bayram Bayramov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), met with Rashid Al Teneiji, Director of the Department of Economic and Trade Affairs at the UAE Foreign Affairs Ministry. This was reported by the press service of the Turkmen diplomatic mission. They discussed the possibility of holding exhibitions and presentations of Turkmen products in the UAE, as well as the current state and prospects of bilateral economic cooperation. Particular attention was paid to expanding trade, strengthening business ties and developing contacts between entrepreneurs of the two countries. The participation of Turkmen businessmen in international events in the UAE and visits by UAE representatives to events in Turkmenistan were also discussed. Following the negotiations, the parties confirmed their readiness to maintain regular dialogue and cooperation in the interests of both countries.
Turkmenistan continues to implement socio-economic development programmes
06.02.2026In 2025, Turkmenistan implemented state programmes for socio-economic development aimed at increasing production, modernising infrastructure and improving living conditions for the population. The work was carried out as part of long-term and medium-term programmes designed to run until 2052 and 2028, according to TDH. The construction and industrial complex plays a key role in these transformations. High GDP growth rates allow for an increase in production volumes and expansion of the service sector. Over the years of independence, dozens of industrial, social and cultural facilities equipped with modern equipment and focused on import substitution and export have been put into operation in the country. In March, with the participation of the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, the ‘Bäherden’ ceramic products factory was opened in the Baherden etrap of the Ahal velayat. The enterprise became the first in the country to produce such products. Its equipment complies with international standards, which is confirmed by certificates from Italian companies. The production is recognised as environmentally safe. In September, a glass production workshop began operating in the northern part of Ashgabat. The daily capacity of the enterprise is 100 tonnes. Local raw materials are used in the production cycle, which reduces costs and ensures consistent operation. At the same time, the development of the regions continues. As part of the national programme to transform social and living conditions, modern infrastructure is being built in rural areas. In September, on the 34th anniversary of independence, new villages were commissioned in the Ahal and Dashoguz velayats. Residential buildings, schools, kindergartens, medical and cultural institutions have been built there, and engineering networks and roads have been created. Large-scale projects are also being implemented in industry. During a working trip to Balkan velayat, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov took part in the laying of the foundation stone for a complex for the production of urea with a capacity of more than 1.1 million tonnes per year and in the start of construction of the ‘Turkmenbashi-Garabogaz-Kazakhstan’ border section of the motorway. These facilities should strengthen the country's logistics and export potential. A water treatment plant and a road bridge across the Garabogaz Bay were also opened in the region. The chemical industry is expanding its production capacity. In October, construction began in Turkmenabat on a complex for the production of phosphate fertilisers, which will replace imports and provide the agricultural sector with the necessary products. The state-owned concern ‘Türkmenhimiýa’ continues to modernise existing enterprises and train personnel. The development of the energy sector remains one of the priorities. New power plants have been built throughout the country, power lines have been upgraded, and generating capacity has been increased. New facilities of the State Energy Institute of Turkmenistan have been put into operation in Mary, expanding opportunities for training specialists. International exhibitions and conferences held in Ashgabat and the ‘Awaza’ tourist zone contribute to the promotion of the industry and the attraction of partners. These platforms are used to discuss joint projects and exchange experience. The implementation of comprehensive programmes in the construction, industrial, energy and chemical sectors is seen as the basis for sustainable economic growth and further improvement in the living standards of the population.
The MFA of Turkmenistan reported on the implementation of the FAO Country Framework Program
06.02.2026On February 5, the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan held a briefing on cooperation with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The event was attended by leaders and employees of the Foreign Affairs Ministry, Heads and representatives of diplomatic missions and international organizations accredited in Turkmenistan, as well as representatives of the media. Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Myahri Byashimova and FAO Deputy Director-General, Regional Representative for Europe and Central Asia Viorel Gutu (via videoconference) delivered reports. The current state and prospects of cooperation between Turkmenistan and the FAO, key results, and priority areas for further work were discussed. Particular attention was paid to the official visit of FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu to Ashgabat in January 2026, which confirmed the strategic nature of the partnership. The importance of signing the Host Country Agreement, which established the legal basis for FAO representation in Turkmenistan, was noted. The completion of the Country Cooperation Framework for 2021-2025 was reported, under which projects were implemented on the digitalization of agriculture, improving the sustainability of food systems, rational use of land and water, introduction of nature-friendly technologies, and support for farms. Work is currently underway on a new Country Cooperation Framework for 2026-2030. The briefing ended with a question-and-answer session.
Turkmenistan and Starlink discussed cooperation in digital technologies
06.02.2026As part of the second B5+1 Business Forum, a bilateral meeting was held between representatives of Turkmenistan and Rebecca Hunter, Director of Global Licensing and Market Activation at Starlink (SpaceX). This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The Turkmen delegation was led by Minister of Finance and Economy M. Astanagulov. Issues related to digital technologies, telecommunications and the implementation of modern satellite communication solutions were discussed. The parties confirmed their mutual interest in long-term cooperation. Turkmenistan's participation in the forum underscored the country's commitment to open international cooperation and strengthening business ties aimed at sustainable economic development in the region.
Turkmenistan participated in the second B5+1 Business Forum in Bishkek
06.02.2026On 4–5 February, a delegation from Turkmenistan led by Minister of Finance and Economy M. Astanagulov participated in the second B5+1 Business Forum in Bishkek. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The forum brought together representatives of government agencies and businesses from Central Asia and the United States to discuss trade, economic, investment and technological cooperation. In its speech, the Turkmen side emphasised its interest in developing partnerships within the B5+1 format. The region's potential as a market for joint investment projects was noted. Particular attention was paid to structural economic reforms, improving the business environment, developing the digital economy, energy, transport and logistics infrastructure, and key industries. On the sidelines of the forum, representatives of Turkmenistan participated in a round table with US business circles. They discussed macroeconomic development, economic diversification, support for the private sector, simplification of trade procedures, development of transport corridors and the country's progress towards WTO membership.
The President of Turkmenistan congratulated the Governor-General of New Zealand
06.02.2026President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov sent a congratulatory message to Governor-General of New Zealand Cindy Kiro on the occasion of the country's national holiday, Waitangi Day. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. In his message, the Head of State wished Cindy Kiro good health and prosperity, and the people of New Zealand peace, stability and further development. It should be recalled that Turkmenistan and New Zealand established diplomatic relations in 1992.
Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov supported the education of young horse breeders
05.02.2026The National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov donated 1.5 million manats to the ‘At-myrat’ training centre in Arkadag on behalf of the Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship. This was reported by TDH. The funds will be used to instill a love of horses in children and to strengthen the centre's material and technical base, including the capabilities of the digital learning system. Hero Arkadag visited the indoor riding arena of the Aba Annayev International Academy of Horse Breeding. He was met by the Rector of the academy, P. Bayramdurdyev, the Vice-President of the International Ahal-Teke Horse Breeding Association, B. Rejepov, and the students of the training centre. The ‘At-myrat’ centre teaches the younger generation about horse breeding, horse riding, national equestrian games and equestrian sports. In addition, students study English and Russian, mathematics, chemistry, and the basics of computer literacy. Training takes place seasonally. Each season, the number of applicants exceeds 40 people. Classes are conducted by experienced teachers in conditions that ensure full mastery of the programme.
The President of Turkmenistan noted the contribution of ‘Galkynysh’ to the development of horse breeding
05.02.2026President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov awarded the national equestrian games group ‘Galkynysh’ 3 million manats for their contribution to the development of national horse breeding. This was announced by the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov during a meeting with artists at the Gorogly State Equestrian Circus, reports TDH. The award was presented to the group's leader on behalf of the Head of State, and each member was presented with a beautifully crafted horse saddle. Hero Arkadag congratulated the artists on their recognition at the International Circus Festival in Monte Carlo, where ‘Galkynysh received international certificates for their contribution to circus arts. The National Leader of the Turkmen people noted that the group's performances on horseback make a strong impression on foreign audiences and are confirmed by awards, including the Grand Prix. He stressed that measures to develop the national art of horse breeding will continue consistently. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov conveyed his congratulations and gratitude to the members of the group for their contribution to enhancing the glory of Turkmen horse breeding.
Hero Arkadag emphasised the importance of preserving horse breeding traditions
05.02.2026The National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov has instructed that feature films be made showing the development of horse breeding in the city of Arkadag and the training of a new generation of specialists. This was reported by TDH. The relevant instruction was given at a working meeting at the Gorogly State Horse Circus with the participation of the Rector of the Aba Annayev International Academy of Horse Breeding, P. Bayramdurdyev, and the Vice-President of the International Ahal-Teke Horse Breeding Association, B. Rejepov. Hero Arkadag emphasised the importance of promoting the achievements of the ‘Galkynysh’ national equestrian games group on the international stage. The films should demonstrate the work being done to train horse breeders, seyis and riders in the city. The meeting discussed the activities of the Horse Breeding Academy and the creation of conditions for practical training of students. It was noted that in 2026, the ‘Galkynysh’ group will celebrate its 20th anniversary. Among its achievements are awards from international circus festivals in Russia, Italy, China, Kyrgyzstan and Monaco, including the Grand Prix at the 47th International Circus Festival in Monte Carlo in 2025. Hero Arkadag called for the preservation of horse breeding traditions and ensuring their continuity, noting that this art remains eternal and timeless.
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