Policy
A formal reception was held in Ashgabat to mark France's National Day
16.07.2025A formal reception was held in Ashgabat to mark France's National Day, Bastille Day, organised by the Embassy of the French Republic in Turkmenistan. The event brought together representatives of diplomatic circles, ministries, as well as figures from the worlds of culture and science, according to the news website TerraNews. In his speech, French Ambassador Philippe Merlin noted Turkmenistan's support for international law and global initiatives, including the fight against climate change. He highlighted the contribution of French companies to projects in Turkmenistan, ranging from telecommunications to sustainable urban development. Special attention was paid to educational cooperation: French is taught in 25 schools and several universities in the country, and interest in the language is growing. In his response, Turkmenistan's Minister of Education Jumamyrat Gurbangeldiyev emphasised the importance of cultural and humanitarian partnership and thanked France for its contribution to the preservation of Turkmen heritage. The festive part of the event included a fashion show by Govher Gouvernet, who combined Eastern motifs and French style in her collection. The evening continued with video presentations on archaeological expeditions and a musical programme featuring Turkmen and French performers. The event highlighted the close cultural ties and the development of Turkmen-French dialogue at all levels, from diplomacy to fashion and education.
Turkmenistan and the UAE discussed cooperation and preparations for the UN conference
16.07.2025Today, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Myahri Byashimova met with Ahmed Al-Hai Hamad Khamis Al-Hameli, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United Arab Emirates to Turkmenistan, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. During the talks, the diplomats discussed topical issues of bilateral cooperation between Turkmenistan and the UAE, paying special attention to preparations for the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC 3). The possibilities of jointly organising events within the framework of the conference and ensuring the active participation of delegations from both countries were considered. The meeting confirmed mutual interest in strengthening partnership relations and developing cooperation in multilateral international forums.
Turkmenistan and Rwanda establish diplomatic relations
16.07.2025On 14 July this year, a historic ceremony was held in New York to sign a document establishing diplomatic relations between Turkmenistan and the Republic of Rwanda. At the Permanent Mission of Turkmenistan to the United Nations, the permanent representatives of the two countries, Aksoltan Atayeva and Martin K. Ngoga, signed a Joint Communiqué. This was reported by the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. Before the official ceremony, the diplomats held substantive talks, during which they discussed the prospects for the development of bilateral relations and multilateral cooperation within the UN framework. The Turkmen side took the opportunity to once again invite Rwanda to participate in the upcoming Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries. This landmark event opens a new page in relations between the two countries, creating a solid foundation for the development of political dialogue, trade and economic cooperation, and interaction in international organisations. The parties expressed confidence that the establishment of diplomatic relations will serve as an impetus for strengthening mutual understanding and partnership between the peoples of Turkmenistan and Rwanda.
The Ambassador of Turkmenistan took part in a meeting with the Secretary General of the Benelux Union
15.07.2025The Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to Belgium, Sapar Palvanov, together with diplomats from Central Asian countries and Mongolia, took part in a meeting with the Secretary-General of the Benelux Union, Frans Weekers, and his deputies. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The Benelux leadership presented the structure and history of the organisation, emphasising its success as an integration association. The parties discussed prospects for cooperation and expressed mutual interest in developing dialogue with Central Asia, including the exchange of experience in intergovernmental cooperation. The Turkmen ambassador raised the issue of simplifying visa procedures for holders of diplomatic and service passports, emphasising Turkmenistan's growing international activity. In just six months, the country hosted almost 2,000 meetings with foreign partners, and more than 700 delegations travelled abroad. The simplification of travel between Turkmenistan and Switzerland was cited as an example of a successful visa agreement.
Foreign Affairs Ministries of Turkmenistan and Cyprus discussed cooperation and preparations for UN conference
15.07.2025On 14 July, a telephone conversation took place between the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Rashid Meredov and his Cypriot counterpart Constantinos Kombos. This was reported on the website of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. During the conversation, the parties discussed the current state and prospects for the development of bilateral relations between Turkmenistan and the Republic of Cyprus. Particular attention was paid to preparations for the upcoming Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC 3), which is of mutual interest to both countries. The telephone conversations between the Heads of the foreign ministries of the two countries confirmed their mutual interest in strengthening dialogue and developing cooperation in multilateral international forums.
An international training course on sustainable development of the Caspian Sea has started in Ashgabat
15.07.2025On 14 July this year, a two-week training course entitled ‘The Caspian Sea – Sustainable Development and Management’ opened in Ashgabat, organised by Turkmen authorities in conjunction with the International Ocean Institute (IOI). The training is attended by specialists from all Caspian littoral states – Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan and Russia – representing various fields ranging from ecology and oil and gas to transport and fisheries. This was reported by the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The course programme includes innovative modules on maritime spatial planning and a special seminar on the Agreement on Marine Biodiversity beyond National Jurisdiction. Representatives of the IOI and the UN delivered welcoming speeches at the opening ceremony, noting Turkmenistan's leading role in promoting sustainable development in the Caspian region. The event continues the tradition of international cooperation among the Caspian littoral states in addressing pressing environmental, economic and security issues in this unique water basin.
Turkmenistan and China discussed prospects for cooperation
14.07.2025Today, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Myakhri Byashimova held a meeting with Chargé d'Affaires of the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Turkmenistan Zhong Hua. This was reported by the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. During the talks, the sides discussed the current state and prospects of cooperation between Turkmenistan and China. Particular attention was paid to preparations for the upcoming Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC 3). During the discussion, the Turkmen side invited representatives of the Chinese delegation to participate in the Meeting of Women Leaders, which will be held within the framework of LLDC 3. This initiative highlights the important role of women in international diplomacy and the development of global cooperation. The meeting demonstrated the mutual interest of Turkmenistan and China in strengthening bilateral relations and working together in multilateral international forums.
Turkmenistan took part in the 12th EU – Central Asia Security Dialogue
14.07.2025On 11 July this year, the 12th meeting of the High-Level Dialogue on Politics and Security between the European Union and Central Asian countries took place in Dushanbe. The meeting at the level of deputy foreign ministers brought together representatives of the European External Action Service and diplomats from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. This was reported by the IIC. During the talks, the parties discussed topical issues of regional and interregional cooperation, as well as topics of mutual interest. Turkmenistan was represented at the event by Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Tajikistan A. Gochmyradov. The EU – Central Asia Dialogue serves as an important platform for strengthening cooperation in the field of security and political interaction between Europe and the countries of the region.
Turkmenistan sums up the results of the first half of the year: steady growth and large-scale reforms
14.07.2025Last week in Turkmenistan was marked by an extended meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers, which summarised the economic results for the first half of 2025. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. The country continues to develop steadily within the framework of the strategy of Turkmenistan's President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, aimed at strengthening the economy and improving the standard of living of the population. GDP grew by 6.3%, with particularly notable growth in the transport and communications (+10.8%), trade (+9.9%) and construction (+5.1%) sectors. Industrial production increased by 9.9% compared to the same period in 2024. State budget revenues amounted to 101.5%, while expenditures amounted to 97.6%. Average wages increased by 11.4%. More than half of the investments made were directed to social facilities. Almost 270,000 square metres of housing was built in the regions, and infrastructure and energy projects are continuing. In total, investments worth more than 17.8 billion manats were made in the first half of the year, 15.6% more than a year earlier. The agricultural sector saw growth in the production of grain, vegetables, fruits and dairy products. The country's grain farmers harvested over 1.4 million tonnes of wheat, fulfilling the grain delivery plan. The meeting also discussed preparations for the new academic year, university admission plans, the development of education and the construction of new educational facilities. One of the key decisions was the approval of a new version of the Programme of Social and Regional Reforms in Villages until 2028. Special attention was paid to preparations for upcoming international events, including the UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries and the International Year of Peace and Trust Forum scheduled for December. The President stressed that consistent economic results create conditions for further development, strengthening of neutrality and international authority of Turkmenistan.
President of Turkmenistan sends congratulatory letter to Emmanuel Macron
14.07.2025The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, sent congratulations to the President of the French Republic, Emmanuel Macron, on the occasion of the national holiday, Bastille Day. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. In his message, Serdar Berdimuhamedov noted the positive dynamics in the development of bilateral relations between Turkmenistan and France, emphasising the desire to further strengthen and expand cooperation. The President of Turkmenistan wished Emmanuel Macron good health and happiness, and the French people peace, stability and prosperity.
Hero Arkadag held a meeting on preparations for the UN Conference
14.07.2025On 13 July, the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, held a meeting of the State Organising Committee dedicated to the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries. The event will take place from 4 to 8 August in the ‘Avaza’ National Tourist Zone. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. During the meeting, issues related to the organisation of the event, the current state of affairs and upcoming tasks were discussed. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov emphasised the international significance of the forum and noted that the resolution on its holding was adopted by the UN General Assembly with the support of 57 states. Political, economic and humanitarian events are planned as part of the conference, including round tables, forums, exhibitions, national days of Central Asian countries and a cultural programme. Representatives of 32 countries, the UN, international organisations, the private sector and NGOs are expected to attend. Hero Arkadag gave instructions to ensure a high level of organisation: to complete construction and improvement works, prepare transport and hotels, ensure the safety and catering of delegations, organise cultural events and decorate the city. Special attention was paid to the work of volunteers and their uniform standards. At the end of the meeting, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov wished the participants success and inspected the infrastructure and design elements of the future forum.
Vice President of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Foundation meets with the Ambassador of Belarus
14.07.2025On 12 July, Oguljahan Atabayeva, Vice-President for Medical Activities of the Charity Fund for Providing Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship named after Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, held a meeting with Stanislav Chepurnoy, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Belarus to Turkmenistan. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed prospects for cooperation in the field of children's health care. The Ambassador handed O. Atabayeva a letter on behalf of the Chairperson of the Board of the Belarusian Children's Fund Lyudmila Kondrashova, and a specially designed developmental complex for children. O. Atabayeva expressed her gratitude for the attention and the gift, which was handed over to the Children’s Health and Rehabilitation Center named after Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov in Arkadag city. The interlocutors expressed hope for the strengthening of humanitarian ties between Turkmenistan and Belarus.
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