Policy
Turkmenistan presented approaches to digital financial security
21.05.2026Azerbaijan hosted the 5th Forum of Parliamentarians of the member states of the Eurasian Group on Combating Money Laundering and Financing of Terrorism (EAG). The main focus was placed on strengthening interagency cooperation and improving the effectiveness of control mechanisms, according to the publication “Turkmenistan: Golden Age”. The Chairman of the Committee of the Mejlis on Legislation and its Norms, Batyr Baylyev, delivered a report at the forum. He highlighted the role of cooperation with the EAG in strengthening the national financial system amid the development of digital technologies. According to him, Turkmenistan continues to implement FATF standards into national legislation and studies international experience in combating money laundering, financing of terrorism, and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. Special attention is given to the digital agenda. In particular, the Law of Turkmenistan “On Virtual Assets” has been adopted. It regulates the procedure for the creation and circulation of virtual assets and forms the legal framework for this sector. Batyr Baylyev noted that the document represents a step forward in the development of the digital economy. According to him, the regulation of virtual assets is gaining strategic importance in the context of the transition to digital finance. The Law of Turkmenistan “On Cybersecurity” is also in force. It is aimed at protecting national interests in cyberspace and developing international cooperation in combating cyber threats. The country has approved the Concept for the Development of the Digital Economy for 2026–2028. It provides for the introduction of artificial intelligence technologies, cloud solutions, financial technologies, and the development of an e-government system. The forum confirmed Turkmenistan’s commitment to participation in the international financial monitoring system and the development of a digital economy with an emphasis on security and technology.
Negotiations with UN agencies were held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan
21.05.2026On May 20, Deputy Foreign Minister of Turkmenistan Mekhri Byashimova held a meeting with representatives of United Nations agencies in Turkmenistan — the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed cooperation as well as preparations for a joint event dedicated to the International Children’s Day. Participants of the meeting noted the work being carried out in Turkmenistan in support of and for the protection of the younger generation.
Ashgabat and Beijing Strengthen Strategic Partnership
21.05.2026President of the People’s Republic of China Xi Jinping has accepted the invitation of the President of Turkmenistan to visit the country. In his reply message, the Chinese leader confirmed his readiness to arrive in Turkmenistan at a time convenient for both sides. This was reported by TDH. In a letter addressed to the President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov, Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of developing a comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries and expressed interest in maintaining close working contacts. The Chinese President also stressed that the Chinese side supports the expansion of mutually beneficial cooperation with Turkmenistan in various fields. According to him, proposals for new joint projects may be considered by the China–Turkmenistan Cooperation Committee. The message notes that relations between Turkmenistan and China have been steadily developing on the basis of mutual respect and equality. Recent high-level meetings held during the visit of the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov to China gave additional momentum to bilateral cooperation.
Turkmenistan discussed regional security issues at a meeting in Kazakhstan
20.05.2026Turkmenistan’s Minister of Internal Affairs, Muhammet Hydyrov, took part in the second meeting of heads of law enforcement agencies in the “Central Asia – China” format in Astana. This was reported by the IIC. The event was attended by China’s Minister of Public Security Wang Xiaohong, as well as the interior ministers of Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. The heads of delegations were received by the President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. The parties discussed regional security issues, coordination of law enforcement activities, and cooperation in the context of developing transport and trade corridors in Central Asia. Particular attention was paid to cybersecurity and preventing the use of information technologies for illegal purposes. Participants of the meeting confirmed their readiness to expand interstate cooperation, strengthen the exchange of operational information, and develop professional contacts to respond to cross-border threats.
Turkmenistan hosts the 44th session of the EAG
20.05.2026In Ashgabat, on May 19, the “Ýyldyz” Hotel hosted the 5th Forum of Parliamentarians of member states of the Eurasian Group on Combating Money Laundering and Financing of Terrorism (EAG). The event was held within the framework of the 44th session of the EAG, according to the TDH news agency. Forum participants discussed the development of national systems for combating money laundering and financing of terrorism, issues of interagency cooperation, and the improvement of legislation. At a meeting between the EAG Chair and the Minister of Finance and Economy of Turkmenistan, measures to enhance the effectiveness of the relevant system were reviewed. Special attention was paid to the work of the coordinating Interagency Working Group. Within the forum, a meeting of the Working Group on Technical Assistance for EAG member states was held. Participants summarized the results of current activities and outlined priority areas for further cooperation. A separate meeting was also held on mutual evaluations and legal aspects. The sides discussed mechanisms for combating money laundering and financing of terrorism, exchanged experience, and reviewed plans for joint work in the near future. It was noted that Turkmenistan participates in international conventions and UN programs to combat organized crime and terrorism, and also develops cooperation with foreign countries and relevant organizations. In addition, a general meeting of members of the International Association of Training and Methodological Centers of EAG member states took place. The focus was on reducing terrorist threats, as well as ensuring transparency and stability of financial systems. For guests of the forum, a cultural program was organized, including visits to the National Museum of Turkmen Carpet and the State Museum of the State Cultural Center of Turkmenistan. The work of the 44th session of the Eurasian Group continues.
Members of the Parliament of Turkmenistan visited the United States under the open world program
20.05.2026A delegation of Turkmen parliamentarians visited the United States as part of the Open World program. During the visit, they met with U.S. House of Representatives member Sydney Kamlager-Dove, Turkmenportal reports. The parties discussed the outcomes of the C5+1 summit held last year, as well as prospects for interparliamentary cooperation between Turkmenistan and the United States. According to Kamlager-Dove, special attention was given to the development of contacts between the legislative bodies of the two countries. The Open World program is implemented with the support of the U.S. Congress and aims to expand interaction between the parliaments of the United States and foreign countries.
Turkmenistan has reaffirmed its commitment to the “One China” policy
20.05.2026Turkmenistan has confirmed its adherence to the “One China” policy and stated its support for the territorial integrity of the People’s Republic of China. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. As noted, Turkmenistan, which holds the status of permanent neutrality, conducts its foreign policy in accordance with international law and the Charter of the United Nations. In this regard, the country has once again confirmed that the Government of the People’s Republic of China is the sole legal government representing all of China, and that Taiwan is considered an inseparable part of China’s territory. Turkmenistan also opposes any form of “Taiwan independence,” supports the peaceful development of relations between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait, and supports the efforts of the Government of the People’s Republic of China toward national reunification.
Turkmenistan and Egypt discussed cooperation within the UN
20.05.2026Permanent Representative of Turkmenistan to the United Nations Vepa Hajiyev held a meeting with Permanent Representative of the Arab Republic of Egypt to the UN Ehab Awad as part of regular contacts at the organization’s platform. This was reported by the IIC. The parties discussed a wide range of issues of mutual interest, paying special attention to the regional agenda and key international issues requiring joint efforts. Following the talks, the diplomats confirmed their intention to continue cooperation, strengthen coordination at multilateral platforms, and develop constructive dialogue between Turkmenistan and Egypt.
Turkmenistan’s Steps Toward WTO Accession Discussed at the Foreign Ministry
20.05.2026On May 19, a meeting was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan between Turkmen Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov and Maika Oshikawa, Director of the Accessions Division of the World Trade Organization (WTO). This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed issues related to cooperation between Turkmenistan and the WTO, as well as further steps toward the country’s accession to the organization. The sides also touched upon regional and international trade and economic cooperation, as well as the improvement of the national legal and regulatory framework and cooperation with international institutions. The consistent nature of Turkmenistan’s cooperation with the WTO was noted. As part of Maika Oshikawa’s visit to Ashgabat, a meeting is planned with representatives of the Government Commission on Turkmenistan’s accession to the WTO.
A delegation of the Migration Service of Turkmenistan paid a visit to Turkey
19.05.2026Representatives of the State Migration Service of Turkmenistan paid a working visit to the Republic of Turkey. This was reported by the press service of the Migration Service of Turkmenistan. Talks were held in Ankara with representatives of the Directorate General of Migration Management of the Turkish Ministry of Interior, during which a wide range of issues related to bilateral cooperation was discussed. The parties noted that the regular format of working contacts contributes to the development of mutually beneficial cooperation and makes it possible to identify new areas for joint activities. The interlocutors exchanged views on the prospects for cooperation in the field of migration and outlined the key priorities for further interaction. Particular attention was paid to the importance of coordination within international organizations as a factor in strengthening the traditionally friendly relations between the two countries. Following the talks, the parties expressed confidence in the continued progressive development of bilateral cooperation and wished each other success in their professional activities.
Charles III Invited to Turkmenistan’s 35th Independence Anniversary Celebrations
19.05.2026National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, during his visit to the United Kingdom, invited King Charles III and members of the royal family to attend events marking the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s independence. The invitation was accepted with gratitude, according to the TDH news agency. The visit took place at the invitation of the British royal family. The Turkmen delegation participated in the Windsor Horse Show. At Windsor Castle, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov held a meeting with King Charles III. The King emphasized the importance of dialogue and expressed hope that Akhal-Teke horses from Turkmenistan would take part in international equestrian competitions in the United Kingdom next year. Talks were also held with Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh. The sides discussed cooperation in the fields of horse breeding and hippotherapy. The year 2026 in Turkmenistan is being held under the slogan: “Independent Neutral Turkmenistan — the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses.” Events aimed at promoting the country’s national equestrian heritage are being organized both domestically and abroad.
Turkmenistan expands cooperation with the European Union
18.05.2026Cooperation between Turkmenistan and the European Union is expanding and becoming more practical in nature. This was stated by Deputy Foreign Minister of Turkmenistan Ahmet Gurbanov at an event in Ashgabat dedicated to Europe Day, according to Turkmenportal. According to him, cooperation with the EU is among the priorities of the country’s foreign policy. Relations are based on the principles of mutual respect and trust and are aimed at supporting international peace and sustainable development. Over recent decades, cooperation has become multi-dimensional, covering trade, economy, security, energy, transport, environmental protection, digitalization, education, science, and culture. Ahmet Gurbanov noted the high level of political dialogue. He recalled the participation of the President of Turkmenistan in the first “Central Asia – European Union” summit on April 4, 2025, in Samarkand, as well as meetings with the leadership of the European Council and the European Commission. An intensification of “Team Europe” initiatives was also noted in the areas of digital connectivity, energy, water resources, and the climate agenda.
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