Policy
New cooperation projects between Turkmenistan and the EBRD discussed in London
26.02.2026On the afternoon of 25 February, Turkmenistan's Foreign Affairs Minister Rashid Meredov met with Odile Renaud-Basso, President of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. During the conversation, the parties discussed issues related to expanding financial and investment cooperation and implementing joint projects. The minister noted that Turkmenistan attaches particular importance to strengthening international partnerships, including intensifying cooperation with authoritative financial institutions. In this regard, the effective nature of the country's long-standing cooperation with the EBRD was emphasised. The Head of the bank confirmed her institution's interest in further expanding mutually beneficial contacts. Particular attention was paid to the implementation of projects to create an ‘East-West’ international transport corridor. The Turkmen side expressed its readiness to consider specific proposals from the EBRD on participation in initiatives in this area. Increased cooperation in the energy sector was also identified as a priority. Broad opportunities for EBRD participation in sustainable energy projects were noted. Following the meeting, the parties expressed confidence in the further steady development of cooperation.
Priorities for partnership between Turkmenistan and the UN defined
26.02.2026On 25 February, the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan hosted a hybrid meeting of the Steering Committee for the implementation of the Framework Programme for Cooperation in the Field of Sustainable Development between Turkmenistan and the United Nations. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The event was attended by representatives of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan, relevant ministries and sectoral agencies of the country, the UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan, as well as heads and staff of structural units of the UN system. The meeting was devoted to summarising the results of joint work for 2025 and discussing priority areas of cooperation and work plans for 2026. Participants reviewed the key results of the Framework Programme's implementation and familiarised themselves with the findings of the Common Country Analysis, which is used in planning programme activities and monitoring the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. Speaking at the meeting, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan Myahri Byashimova noted that the Framework Programme remains the main strategic document defining the priorities for cooperation between the Government of Turkmenistan and the UN system. It was emphasised that the document forms the long-term basis for partnership with the UN and its agencies. In this regard, it was recalled that in October 2025, as part of the events dedicated to UN Day, a new Framework Programme for Cooperation for 2026-2030 was signed. The Turkmen side also noted the importance of the International Forum in Ashgabat, timed to coincide with the International Year of Peace and Trust, the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's Permanent Neutrality and the International Day of Neutrality. Following the meeting, it was emphasised that further cooperation between Turkmenistan and the UN and its member states will be developed taking into account the national priorities announced at the 80th session of the UN General Assembly. Among the key areas identified are peace, the environmental agenda, social development and the strengthening of international cooperation.
Turkmenistan delegation holds negotiations in the United Kingdom
26.02.2026On 24 February, a working visit by a delegation from Turkmenistan, led by the Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Foreign Affairs Minister Rashid Meredov, to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland began. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. On 25 February, in the first half of the day, the Head of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan met with the Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organisation, Arsenio Dominguez. The parties discussed issues of cooperation in the field of maritime transport and international shipping. It was noted that strengthening cooperation with relevant international structures remains an important area of work. Turkmenistan is systematically working to comply with the requirements of international conventions in the field of maritime transport, introduce modern shipping safety standards and improve the regulatory framework. It was emphasised that Turkmenistan is consistently promoting the transport agenda at the United Nations, advocating for its comprehensive consideration at the global level. Special mention was made of the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries, held in August 2025 in the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone. On the same day, the third round of the ‘Structural Dialogue’ between the foreign ministries of the two countries was opened at the British Foreign Office. The negotiations were attended by Rashid Meredov and Hamish Falconer, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister. The parties noted the positive dynamics of political dialogue and trade and economic cooperation, emphasising the need to make fuller use of the existing potential, including within the framework of the Turkmen-British Trade and Industry Council. In the field of education and culture, Turkmenistan expressed great interest in learning English and expressed its readiness to expand cooperation with relevant British institutions. Regional security issues, including the situation in Afghanistan, were also discussed. Following the meeting, a Cooperation Programme between the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan and the UK for 2026-2027 was signed. Negotiations continued at the level of heads of relevant departments.
Turkmenistan and Ethiopia discussed the development of diplomatic and economic ties
26.02.2026Turkmenistan's Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Pakistan, Atajan Movlamov, met with Ethiopia's new Ambassador to Pakistan, Oumer Hussein Oba. This was reported by the press service of the Turkmen diplomatic mission. The Turkmen diplomat congratulated his colleague on his appointment and wished him success in his work. The parties discussed the prospects for Turkmen-Ethiopian cooperation, expressing interest in developing political dialogue and trade and economic ties, and exchanged views on the current regional situation and transport and economic ties. Following the meeting, both sides confirmed their desire to strengthen friendship and coordinate efforts in the international arena.
The Ambassador of Turkmenistan held a meeting with the Federal Minister of Energy of Pakistan
25.02.2026The Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to Pakistan, Atajan Movlamov, held a meeting with the Federal Minister of Energy of Pakistan, Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari. This was reported by the Orient news agency. The main topic of the talks was strengthening bilateral energy partnership and increasing regional interconnectivity. The parties emphasised the strategic nature of their relations and the transition to the practical implementation of major cross-border initiatives. Particular attention was paid to the development of the TAPI and TAP projects, which are seen as the basis for long-term sustainability in Central and South Asia, as well as the need to coordinate energy policy and exchange technical data. It was noted that the expansion of transport and energy infrastructure would stimulate trade and strengthen regional stability. The meeting concluded with a confirmation of the readiness to accelerate initiatives in the field of sustainable development and diversification of energy sources.
The Chairwoman of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan held a meeting with the President of Georgia
25.02.2026On 24 February, Chairwoman of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan Dunyagozel Gulmanova held a meeting with President of Georgia Mikheil Kavelashvili as part of her official visit to the country, according to the press service of the Mejlis. During the meeting, Gulmanova conveyed greetings and best wishes from the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, and the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, to the Georgian side. The parties emphasised the active development of bilateral relations in the political, trade, economic, cultural and humanitarian spheres. Particular attention was paid to the role of international law and parliamentary diplomacy in strengthening friendship between nations. During the talks, the results of previous visits and implemented agreements aimed at expanding mutually beneficial cooperation were discussed. The focus was on the energy, transport, logistics and industrial sectors, including the introduction of modern technologies. Concluding the meeting, the parties expressed confidence in the further strengthening of Turkmen-Georgian relations. As part of the visit, the Turkmen delegation, led by Dunyagozel Gulmanova, took part in a wreath-laying ceremony at Heroes' Square in Tbilisi in honour of the heroes of Georgia.
Parliamentary diplomacy between Turkmenistan and Georgia reaches a new level
25.02.2026As part of her official visit, the Chairwoman of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan, Dunyagozel Gulmanova, held a meeting with the Prime Minister of Georgia, Irakli Kobahidze. This was reported by the press service of the Mejlis. During the meeting, Gulmanova conveyed friendly greetings and best wishes to the people of Georgia from the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, and the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. The parties noted the active development of friendly relations between the countries in the political, trade, economic, cultural and humanitarian spheres, emphasising their support for each other's initiatives both bilaterally and within international organisations. Particular attention was paid to the importance of bilateral visits and meetings of parliamentarians, including the visit of the Speaker of the Parliament of Georgia to Turkmenistan and the current visit of the Turkmen delegation. The parties expressed confidence that inter-parliamentary relations would become more stable and productive. The talks also highlighted the important role of parliamentary diplomacy in strengthening intergovernmental cooperation based on the principles of mutual respect, equality and trust, as well as the willingness of both sides to develop cooperation in this area.
The President of Turkmenistan sent congratulations to the Emir of Kuwait
25.02.2026President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov sent congratulations to Emir of Kuwait Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah on the occasion of Kuwait National Day. This was reported by AsmanNews. The Head of State wished the Emir good health and happiness, and the people of Kuwait peace, further progress and prosperity.
Turkmenistan has confirmed its readiness to deepen cooperation within the C6 format
25.02.2026In mid-February, Baku hosted an international conference of think tanks of the C6 countries entitled ‘C6: One Region, Shared Future - Enhancing Strategic Dialogue’. The event was organised by the Centre for Analysis of International Relations of the Republic of Azerbaijan. Turkmenistan was represented by the director of the Scientific Centre for Strategic Studies of the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Ambassador Shiri Shiriyev, according to the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The C6 format brings together five Central Asian countries and Azerbaijan, ensuring coordinated positions on issues of economy, transport, energy and regional security. Baku's accession has expanded the format, bringing additional economic resources, logistical capabilities and foreign policy ties, which strengthens the overall potential for cooperation. During the conference, participants discussed the development of the Trans-Caspian corridor, strengthening trust between countries, economic cooperation, resilience to global risks and regional security issues. Experts noted the importance of C6 as a platform for coordinating efforts and promoting interregional cooperation. Conference participants confirmed their interest in further developing expert dialogue and institutional strengthening of the C6 format. Following the meeting, the parties expressed their readiness to deepen cooperation, which, in their opinion, will have a positive impact on the economies of the participating countries and the stability of the region.
Turkmenistan and the United States aim to expand business cooperation
25.02.2026The National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov held a meeting with the Executive Director of the Turkmenistan-US Business Council Eric Stewart during his visit to the United States, reports TDH. During the talks, Eric Stewart noted his positive impression of the National Leader's visit and emphasised the high level of interest among American companies in developing cooperation with Turkmenistan, which has significant economic potential. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov emphasised the dynamic development of bilateral relations and the active participation of business structures of both countries in the implementation of joint projects. The parties noted the existence of broad opportunities for further strengthening the partnership based on mutual respect and trust. Investment dialogue was identified as a priority area of cooperation. The National Leader also emphasised the importance of regular contacts between representatives of the business communities of the two countries, which are a key tool for promoting joint initiatives. Particular attention was paid to the long-standing participation of major American companies such as ‘Boeing’, ‘General Electric’, ‘John Deere’, ‘CASE’ and ‘Nicklaus Companies’ in the implementation of significant projects in Turkmenistan. Eric Stewart confirmed the Business Council's readiness to support the expansion and strengthening of contacts between economic entities of both countries. Following the meeting, the parties expressed confidence in the further development of mutually beneficial and long-term cooperation between Turkmenistan and the United States.
Turkmenistan and the SCO aim to expand cooperation
25.02.2026Parahat Durdyev, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to China, held a meeting with Nurlan Yermekbayev, Secretary General of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. This was reported by IIC. The parties discussed opportunities for expanding cooperation in trade, transport, logistics and the humanitarian sphere. The Ambassador highlighted the wide range of activities of the SCO and the high level of interaction with Turkmenistan. The Diplomat also spoke about the events planned for 2026 and preparations for the 35th anniversary of the country's independence. In turn, the SCO Secretary General expressed his gratitude for the invitation to the forum dedicated to the International Year of Peace and Trust, International Day of Neutrality and the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's Permanent Neutrality, and warmly recalled his meeting with the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov.
A meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the CIS will be held in Ashgabat
25.02.2026A meeting of the CIS Council of Heads of Government will be held on 22 May in Ashgabat. This was announced by First Deputy Secretary General of the CIS Igor Petrishenko at a meeting of permanent representatives in Minsk. This was reported by IIC Turkmenistan. There are 11 items on the agenda, the key ones of which concern economic cooperation, transport corridors, digitalisation and congress and exhibition activities. There are also plans to consider a decision on granting Minsk the status of CIS Youth Capital in 2027. At the same time, the CIS is completing the three-year plan to update the regulatory framework and is developing new mechanisms for coordination between national agencies. Particular attention is being paid to security issues and the implementation of initiatives by Heads of State. In addition, the CIS will send an observer mission to Kazakhstan to monitor the referendum on constitutional changes scheduled for 15 March. The mission headquarters will begin work in the near future.
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