Policy
Hero Arkadag congratulated the President of Turkmenistan on the announcement of the motto for 2026
28.12.2025The National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov sent congratulations to the President of Turkmenistan on the proclamation of 2026 as the Year of ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. The message emphasises that the Turkmen people are welcoming the new year in a spirit of spiritual uplift and with the results achieved in 2025. Among the key events mentioned are the celebration of the 34th anniversary of Turkmenistan's independence and the 30th anniversary of its permanent neutrality, as well as the results of the International Year of Peace and Trust. The greeting also notes the role of the Ahal-Teke horse as an important element of national heritage. It refers to the opening of the Aba Annayev International Academy of Horse Breeding in the city of Arkadag, as well as the successes of the ‘Galkynysh’ National Equestrian Games Group at international festivals. In conclusion, Hero Arkadag expressed confidence in the further development of the country and wished the President of Turkmenistan good health and success in his activities for the benefit of the state.
The UN adopted two resolutions on the initiative of Turkmenistan
27.12.2025The UN General Assembly unanimously approved two Resolutions proposed by Turkmenistan: ‘The Key Role of Reliable and Stable Energy Connectivity in Ensuring Sustainable Development’ and ‘The UN Decade of Sustainable Transport (2026-2035)’, according to the news website Turkmenportal. This was announced by Rashid Meredov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan, at an expanded meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers and the State Security Council. During his speech, Rashid Meredov congratulated President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov on the country's foreign policy victory. In response, the Head of State expressed gratitude on behalf of the entire Turkmen people to all countries that supported Turkmenistan's initiatives and emphasised the country's readiness to continue active cooperation with the UN. The meeting also noted that 2025 was a year of significant events for Turkmenistan, including the celebration of the 30th anniversary of the country's Permanent Neutrality. Over the past year, 44 meetings of the Cabinet of Ministers, 11 meetings of the State Security Council and 24 state meetings were held to discuss key issues of domestic and foreign policy. According to the government, the national economy showed high growth rates in all sectors. Salaries, pensions, state benefits and student scholarships were paid on time. In addition, new laws were adopted to promote the development of the state.
The UN unanimously supported Turkmenistan's initiatives on energy and transport
27.12.2025In 2025, Turkmenistan significantly strengthened the political and legal foundations of international cooperation. This was announced by Foreign Affairs Minister Rashid Meredov, speaking at the ceremony ‘International Year of Peace and Trust: Steadfast steps of Neutral Turkmenistan,’ according to the state news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. A key result of the year was the unanimous adoption by the UN General Assembly of a number of resolutions put forward on the initiative of Turkmenistan. They were co-authored by dozens of states, which testifies to broad international support and recognition of the country's foreign policy initiatives. The adoption of two UN General Assembly resolutions on 15 December 2025 was noted separately: ‘The Key Role of Reliable and Stable Energy Connectivity in Ensuring Sustainable Development’ and ‘The UN Decade of Sustainable Transport (2026-2035)’. These documents are aimed at strengthening global energy security and forming long-term guidelines for the development of international transport corridors. According to the Deputy Prime Minister, the resolutions are practical in nature and provide for specific implementation mechanisms, including analysis of the current situation in the energy and logistics sectors, the activities of specialised UN structures created on the initiative of Turkmenistan, and the development of infrastructure ensuring connectivity at the national, regional and global levels. The decisions taken have formed a solid legal basis for the development of international energy and transport interconnectivity and confirmed Turkmenistan's active participation in the development of solutions to key issues of sustainable development.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan presented the results of the foreign policy course
27.12.2025A ceremony entitled International Year of Peace and Trust: Steadfast Steps of Neutral Turkmenistan’ was held in Ashgabat, at which Rashid Meredov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan, announced the main results of the country's foreign policy activities, according to the state news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The Foreign Affairs Minister noted that Turkmenistan's current foreign policy is based on three interrelated principles: neutrality, peace and trust. According to him, it is these approaches that shape the image of the state as a responsible member of the UN and a reliable partner in solving pressing international issues. Rashid Meredov stressed that the past year was marked by the active promotion of neutrality as an effective diplomatic tool. He stated that the work done contributed to a deeper understanding by the international community of the importance of Turkmenistan's neutral status as a factor in ensuring security, peace and sustainable development. Hundreds of events were organised in Turkmenistan and abroad as part of the implementation of the country's foreign policy initiatives. Particular attention was paid to interaction with the international media and expert circles in order to explain the content and practical significance of the policy of neutrality. The results of the year confirmed the sustained interest and positive assessment of Turkmenistan's foreign policy in the international arena, as well as its contribution to the development of a culture of dialogue between states.
Deputy EU Ambassador to Turkmenistan outlines priorities for cooperation
26.12.2025Deputy Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the European Union to Turkmenistan Maciej Adam Madalinski officially took office on 1 September this year. The Diplomat gave an interview to the news website Turkmenportal. According to the Deputy Ambassador, in his first months on the job, he held a series of meetings at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, as well as with representatives of partner countries' embassies and international organisations. In addition, Madalinski took part in the International Conference ‘The Role of Women in Modern Society,’ held in the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone on the eve of the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s neutrality. Speaking about his first impressions of the country, the EU representative noted the hospitality of the Turkmen people, the national cuisine and the developed urban infrastructure. He stressed that he intends to visit all regions of the country and get to know its peculiarities more deeply. Madalinski named support for the private sector, the development of trade and transport, ‘green’ transformation and interaction with civil society as key achievements in cooperation between Turkmenistan and the European Union. He also highlighted the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development's programme ‘Consulting for Small Businesses in Turkmenistan,’ implemented with EU support in 2018–2025. In the field of ecology and climate, the Diplomat highlighted the project ‘EU for a Green Turkmenistan: Policy Dialogue and Climate Action’, aimed at developing renewable energy and reducing emissions. Among the key events of 2026, the Diplomat announced the first ‘EU-Turkmenistan’ Business Forum, scheduled for March 2026, as well as the preparation of the ‘EU-Central Asia’ Women's Forum and the participation of Turkmen youth in the Civil Society Forum in Bishkek. The possibility of holding a high-level meeting in Brussels is also being discussed. In conclusion, Maciej Adam Madalinski noted the symbolism of jointly celebrating the International Year of Peace and Trust and expressed his hope for further deepening of the dialogue between the European Union and Turkmenistan.
Diplomats and representatives of international organisations honoured in Turkmenistan
26.12.2025President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov signed a Resolution on awarding the commemorative silver medal ‘Türkmenistanyň hemişelik Bitaraplygynyň 30 ýyllygy’ (‘30 Years of Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan’) to Heads and representatives of diplomatic missions of foreign states and international organisations accredited in Turkmenistan. This was reported by AsmanNews. The award was given for their contribution to strengthening the independence and legal status of Turkmenistan's Permanent Neutrality, promoting a policy of Peace and Trust, as well as for many years of state and public activity. The decision was timed to coincide with the 30th anniversary of the country's Permanent Neutrality. Among those awarded were the Ambassadors Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States, Azerbaijan, Iran, Germany, Uzbekistan, the Russian Federation, Tajikistan, the Republic of Turkey and Japan, the Chargé d'Affaires of the Embassy of the Republic of Korea, the UNICEF representative in Turkmenistan, and the Head of the Asian Development Bank Representative Office. Citizens of Turkmenistan were also awarded the commemorative medal, including representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Academy of Sciences of Turkmenistan, the Ministry of Health and Medical Industry, as well as specialists in the field of state protocol and international relations.
Turkmenistan expanded international cooperation in 2025
25.12.2025In 2025, Turkmenistan continued to actively develop its foreign policy based on the principles of positive neutrality. The year was marked by the International Year of Peace and Trust and the 30th anniversary of the country's Permanent Neutrality, which has been confirmed three times by Resolutions of the UN General Assembly, according to TDH. Important events included visits by the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov to Monaco and France. During meetings with Prince Albert II of Monaco and French President Emmanuel Macron, the prospects for bilateral cooperation were discussed. A Turkmen-French economic forum was also held in Paris. Relations with Italy received new impetus. In October 2025, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov paid an official visit to the Italian Republic. In Rome, negotiations were held with Italian President Sergio Mattarella, a Turkmen-Italian business forum was held, and an archaeological exhibition entitled ‘Ancient Civilisations of Turkmenistan’ was opened. Cooperation with countries in the Asia-Pacific region developed actively. In April, the President of Turkmenistan visited Japan, took part in the events of Turkmenistan National Day at EXPO-2025 in Osaka, and held meetings with Emperor Naruhito of Japan, the Prime Minister of Japan, and representatives of the business community. In June, a state visit by the Head of State to Mongolia was held. Particular attention was paid to strengthening partnerships with neighbouring countries. In April, Hero Arkadag paid visits to Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan. In November, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov visited Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan. The negotiations focused on developing cooperation in the economy, energy, transport, industry and the humanitarian sphere. During this period, the Turkmen-Uzbek trade centre ‘Dashoguz-Shavat’ was put into operation. Dialogue with Azerbaijan and Georgia continued to develop. In July, the National Leader of the Turkmen people visited Azerbaijan, where prospects for cooperation and inter-parliamentary ties were discussed. In March, negotiations took place in Ashgabat between the President of Turkmenistan and the Prime Minister of Georgia, Irakli Kobakhidze. Turkmenistan continued its cooperation with Afghanistan, focusing on the implementation of major infrastructure projects. In October 2025, the next phase of the ‘Serhetabat-Herat’ gas pipeline was launched as part of the TAPI project. The country actively participated in multilateral formats and hosted major international events. In August, the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries was held in Awaza, and in December, an International Forum dedicated to the International Year of Peace and Trust and Neutrality Day was held in Ashgabat. The results of 2025 confirmed the consistent nature of Turkmenistan's foreign policy, which is focused on developing international cooperation, strengthening trust and regional stability.
Cooperation between Turkmenistan and the UN expands in the humanitarian sphere
24.12.2025Turkmenistan considers its strategic partnership with the United Nations to be one of its foreign policy priorities. In the International Year of Peace and Trust, which coincided with the 30th anniversary of the country's Permanent Neutrality and the 80th anniversary of the UN, cooperation has been further developed, according to TDH. In October 2025, the fourth meeting of the ‘Turkmenistan - UN’ Strategic Advisory Council was held in Ashgabat. Joint projects in the socio-economic and humanitarian spheres are being implemented, and a number of long-term documents have been signed. On 23 October 2025, a Framework Programme for Cooperation in the Field of Sustainable Development between the Government of Turkmenistan and the UN for 2026-2030 was signed. UNDP, UNICEF and UNFPA country programmes for Turkmenistan for this period were also approved. Cooperation with UNICEF continues. Work plans for 2026–2027 have been signed with the Mejlis, the Ombudsman's Office, and relevant ministries and agencies. The documents cover issues of child rights protection, education, social support, statistics, and information work. Turkmenistan is a member of the UNICEF Executive Board for 2024–2026. The Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship plays an active role in humanitarian cooperation. The Foundation implements medical and social programmes, cooperates with UNICEF and other international partners, and provides humanitarian assistance, including abroad. International contacts and visits were held in November and December 2025, including events in St. Petersburg and Doha, where issues of health protection, inclusive development, and child protection were discussed. Memoranda of Cooperation with foreign foundations and organisations were signed. A partnership with UNFPA is being developed. The Country Programme for 2026-2030 and the Work Plans for the implementation of the national gender policy have been adopted. Turkmenistan is a member of the UN Commission on Population and Development for 2024-2028. Cooperation with UNESCO covers the fields of education, science and culture. In 2025, the art of breeding Turkmen alabay dogs was included in the UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage. Ashgabat is part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, and a number of schools and universities participate in the Organisation's relevant programmes. Turkmenistan reaffirms its commitment to expanding cooperation with the UN and its specialised agencies on issues of sustainable development, humanitarian cooperation and international dialogue.
For the 30th anniversary of neutrality, lists of awarded citizens of Turkmenistan have been published
23.12.2025On 22 December, the online newspaper ‘Neutral Turkmenistan’ published extended lists of citizens awarded the jubilee medal ‘Türkmenistanyň Bitaraplygynyň 30 ýyllygyna’ (‘30 Years of Turkmenistan’s Neutrality’) and commemorative badges ‘Türkmenistanyň hemişelik Bitaraplygynyň 30 ýyllygy’ (‘30 Years of Turkmenistan’s Permanent Neutrality’). The lists were published in accordance with the Decree of the President of Turkmenistan on awarding the jubilee medal ‘Türkmenistanyň Bitaraplygynyň 30 ýyllygyna’ and commemorative badges ‘Türkmenistanyň hemişelik Bitaraplygynyň 30 ýyllygy’. The documents note the contribution of citizens to strengthening state independence and permanent neutrality, developing the economy, enhancing defence capabilities, ensuring security and law and order, as well as implementing state programmes in the fields of science, education, culture, healthcare and other sectors. The awards are timed to coincide with the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's Permanent Neutrality status.
Serdar Berdimuhamedov took part in an informal CIS summit
23.12.2025During his working visit to the Russian Federation, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov took part in an informal summit meeting of the Heads of State of the Commonwealth of Independent States. This was reported by TDH. The event took place in St. Petersburg, at the State Hermitage Museum. The Head of Turkmenistan was met by Russian President Vladimir Putin. The summit was preceded by a joint tour of the museum halls by the leaders of the CIS countries. During the meeting, Heads of State summed up the work of the Commonwealth for the current year and discussed plans for the future. Positive dynamics in economic cooperation were noted. The exchange of views on current regional and international issues was also discussed. The Russian President congratulated Serdar Berdimuhamedov on Turkmenistan's upcoming chairmanship of the CIS in 2026 and wished him success. The commitment of the Commonwealth countries to the principles of equality, mutual respect and trust was emphasised. As an associate member of the CIS, Turkmenistan is consistently developing cooperation in the fields of economy, transport and logistics. Particular attention is paid to the development of international North-South and East-West transport corridors, as well as cooperation in the energy sector. Humanitarian and environmental issues also remain on Turkmenistan's agenda, including participation in addressing the problems of the Aral region and promoting initiatives in the field of sustainable development and ‘green’ diplomacy. Special attention is paid to Turkmen-Russian relations. The parties are developing a strategic partnership in the trade, economic, transport and humanitarian spheres. At the end of the visit programme, an informal lunch and concert were held for the Heads of State. After that, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov left for Ashgabat, where he was met by officials. The participation of the Head of Turkmenistan in the informal CIS summit confirmed the country's readiness for open dialogue and practical cooperation within the Commonwealth.
The President of Turkmenistan participates in the CIS Heads of State Summit in Russia
22.12.2025President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov is participating in an informal summit of CIS leaders, which is being held in the St. George Hall of the State Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The meeting is attended by the Heads of State of the CIS, and was opened by Russian President Vladimir Putin. The leaders are discussing the development of cooperation within the Commonwealth, noting its strengthening on the international arena. The participants confirm their commitment to the formation of a multipolar world with the coordinating role of the UN, as well as their intention to jointly strengthen stability and security. The importance of cultural and humanitarian cooperation and the growth of economic integration is emphasised: the share of national currencies in mutual settlements between CIS countries exceeds 96%.
The President of Turkmenistan has left for Russia to participate in an informal CIS summit
22.12.2025President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov left for a working visit to the Russian Federation to participate in an informal high-level summit of Heads of State of CIS member states. This was reported by TDH. The Head of State was seen off by officials at the capital's international airport. The informal CIS summit has no fixed agenda and serves as a platform for exchanging views on regional stability, the economy and humanitarian cooperation, as well as summarising the year and discussing plans for the future. Turkmenistan, which has permanent neutrality status and is an associate member of the CIS, participates in the activities of the Commonwealth, focusing on the development of economic cooperation, transport and logistics links, energy diplomacy and environmental security. A few hours later, the President of Turkmenistan's plane arrived at St. Petersburg International Airport, where the Head of State was met by officials. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov's working visit to the Russian Federation continues.
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