Policy
The United States has lifted restrictions on the issuance of non-immigrant visas to citizens of Turkmenistan
17.12.2025The US administration has eased visa restrictions for citizens of Turkmenistan. US President Donald Trump signed the relevant Decree on 16 December 2025. The document was published by the White House and will come into force on 1 January 2026, according to Turkmenportal. According to the document, the ban on issuing non-immigrant visas of categories B-1, B-2, B-1/B-2, F, M and J to citizens of Turkmenistan has been lifted. These visas cover business, tourist, student and exchange trips. At the same time, the suspension of immigration visas for Turkmen citizens remains in force. The White House said that the decision to ease restrictions was made in light of Turkmenistan's cooperation with the United States and progress in the area of identity management and information sharing. It is noted that improvements have been recorded since the previous proclamation issued in June 2025. The Decree also provides for the expansion of the list of countries whose citizens are subject to entry restrictions into the United States by another 20 states and territories.
Final Declaration adopted following the International Forum in Ashgabat
17.12.2025On 12 December, Ashgabat hosted an International Forum dedicated to the International Year of Peace and Trust, International Neutrality Day and the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's Permanent Neutrality. The forum was organised by the Government of Turkmenistan in cooperation with the United Nations, according to IIC. The key outcome of the event was the adoption of a final Declaration. The document reaffirms commitment to the goals and principles of the UN Charter, a multilateral approach and the norms of international law. It highlights the role of neutrality as an effective mechanism for preventing conflicts, building trust and ensuring sustainable development. The Declaration emphasises the importance of Turkmenistan's policy of permanent neutrality as a factor in regional and global stability. It stresses the need to develop a culture of peace, dialogue, preventive diplomacy and mediation, as well as to make more active use of the potential of neutral states in peace negotiations. The document welcomes Turkmenistan's initiatives to establish a Chamber of Mediation for Peace under the auspices of the UN and to develop a Concept of Global Security based on neutrality. It supports the idea of expanding educational and scientific cooperation, including the creation of a University of Peace and Neutrality. Separate provisions of the Declaration are devoted to the interconnection between peace, security and sustainable development, the humanitarian dimension of neutrality, the involvement of women and youth in peacebuilding processes, as well as issues of ethical use of digital technologies and artificial intelligence. In conclusion, the participants expressed their gratitude to Turkmenistan for hosting the forum and confirmed their readiness for further cooperation within the framework of the UN and other international formats for the practical implementation of the provisions of the Declaration.
The international conference in Awaza concluded with the adoption of a final Declaration
17.12.2025On 10 December, the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone hosted the International Conference ‘The Role of Women in Modern Society: Promoting International Cooperation for Sustainable Development.’ The forum was organised on the initiative of the Government of Turkmenistan in conjunction with the United Nations and timed to coincide with International Neutrality Day, the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's Permanent Neutrality and the International Year of Peace and Trust, according to IIC. The key outcome of the conference was the adoption of a final Declaration. The document reaffirms commitment to the UN Charter, the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. It highlights the role of women in ensuring social progress, economic growth and sustainable development. The Declaration emphasises expanding women's participation in public administration and civil society, developing their leadership potential and strengthening the role of women's organisations. Separate mention is made of issues such as the economic empowerment of women, support for women's entrepreneurship and reducing the gender digital divide. The document also emphasises the importance of equal access for women and girls to quality education and healthcare, the role of women in science, culture, ecology and the fight against climate change, as well as their contribution to the development of human capital. A separate section of the Declaration is devoted to strengthening international cooperation. It emphasises the need to expand dialogue, exchange best practices and create new platforms to promote gender equality, including within the UN and regional formats. In conclusion, the participants expressed their gratitude to the Government of Turkmenistan, UN structures and partners for organising the conference and confirmed their readiness for further cooperation to implement the provisions of the final Declaration.
The next meeting of the Group of Friends of Neutrality will take place in February 2026
17.12.2025The next meeting of the Group of Friends of Neutrality for Peace, Security and Sustainable Development is scheduled for February 2026. This was reported by Turkmenportal with reference to the Permanent Mission of Turkmenistan to the UN. According to the regulations, meetings at the ambassadorial level are held in New York at least once every six months. Meetings at the level of Foreign Affairs Ministers are also held annually. The Group of Friends of Neutrality was established on the initiative of Turkmenistan and operates under the auspices of the UN. The platform is used for multilateral dialogue on the practical application of the peacekeeping potential of neutral states.
New members join the Group of Friends of Neutrality at the UN
17.12.2025In 2025, Azerbaijan, Tajikistan and Eswatini joined the Group of Friends of Neutrality for Peace, Security and Sustainable Development. Thus, the number of participants in the international platform has reached 29 states, according to Turkmenportal, citing the Permanent Mission of Turkmenistan to the UN. The press service of the diplomatic mission noted that the expansion of the Group reflects the growing interest in neutrality as a tool for strengthening peace, trust, security and sustainable development within the framework of the UN Charter. The Group of Friends of Neutrality operates under the auspices of the UN and serves as a platform for multilateral dialogue on the practical application of the principles of neutrality. Its agenda includes conflict prevention, elimination of their consequences and resolution of humanitarian issues.
Ashgabat summarises the work of the Turkmen-Austrian Friendship Group for 2025
17.12.2025A meeting of the Turkmen-Austrian Friendship Group was held at the ‘Yyldyz’ Hotel, where the results of its work for 2025 were summarised. The meeting was held in a hybrid format with the participation of representatives from the Turkmen and Austrian sides, according to TDH. Opening the meeting, the Head of the Turkmen-Austrian Friendship Group, N. Berger, noted the significance of the recent meeting with the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. She stressed that the creation of the Group in 2008 was linked to the first official visit of the National Leader of the Turkmen people to Austria, and recalled the joint projects implemented in the field of culture and information exchange. Representatives of the Turkmen side noted the stable level of bilateral relations based on mutual trust and respect for interests. The parties' readiness to develop cooperation and implement joint projects was emphasised. The participants discussed issues related to expanding the activities of the Friendship Group, strengthening economic partnership and business ties, as well as the role of cultural diplomacy. Special attention was paid to promising projects for 2026 and proposals to intensify joint work with the participation of Turkmen companies. During the meeting, the merits of individual members of the Friendship Group were noted in connection with the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's Neutrality and the 17th anniversary of the Turkmen-Austrian Friendship Group for their contribution to the development of economic and business cooperation. The participants emphasised that in 2025, the Friendship Group continued its work on developing bilateral dialogue and participating in the implementation of the tasks of the International Year of Peace and Trust.
The Ambassador of Equatorial Guinea presented his credentials in Ashgabat
16.12.2025In Ashgabat, on behalf of the President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov, the Chairwoman of the Mejlis Dunyagozel Gulmanova accepted the credentials of the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Equatorial Guinea to Turkmenistan Luciano Nkogo Ndong Ayekaba. This was reported by TDH. On behalf of the head of state, the head of the national parliament congratulated the diplomat on his appointment to this high position and wished him success in developing and strengthening bilateral relations. In turn, the Ambassador expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome and conveyed greetings and best wishes from the leadership of Equatorial Guinea to the President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov, as well as congratulations to the Turkmen people on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's permanent neutrality. During the meeting, the diplomat was informed about the priorities of Turkmenistan's socially oriented domestic policy and its peaceful foreign strategy based on the principles of positive neutrality and constructive international cooperation, including with countries on the African continent. The parties exchanged views on the prospects for developing bilateral cooperation in areas of mutual interest. The ambassador was also provided with information on the structure and activities of the Mejlis, as well as on the large-scale socio-economic reforms being implemented in the country. At the end of the meeting, Luciano Nkogo Ndong Ayekaba emphasized that it was a great honor for him to represent the Republic of Equatorial Guinea in neutral Turkmenistan, and assured his readiness to make every effort to further develop friendly relations between the two states.
The President of Turkmenistan congratulated the President of Kazakhstan on Independence Day
16.12.2025President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov sent a congratulatory message to President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and the people of the country on the occasion of the Independence Day of the Republic of Kazakhstan. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. The message notes that over the years of independence, Kazakhstan has strengthened its state institutions and achieved growth in the well-being of its population, consistently realizing its potential in various fields. The head of state also emphasized the importance of the meeting held in Astana as part of the state visit, noting the atmosphere of trust and the parties' commitment to further strengthening the strategic partnership between Turkmenistan and the Republic of Kazakhstan. In conclusion, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov wished President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev health and success in his state activities, and the people of Kazakhstan peace, progress, and prosperity.
The President of Turkmenistan congratulated the King of Bahrain on National Day
16.12.2025President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov sent a congratulatory message to King of Bahrain Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the people of the country on the occasion of the National Day of the Kingdom of Bahrain. This was reported by AsmanNews. The message emphasizes the high value placed on the multifaceted cooperation between Turkmenistan and the Kingdom of Bahrain and expresses confidence in its further development in the interests of both nations. The head of state wished the King of Bahrain good health and well-being, and the people of the country peace, progress, and prosperity
The President of Turkmenistan awarded prizes to winners of international Olympiads and competitions
16.12.2025President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov participated in a ceremonial event honoring schoolchildren, university students, and athletes who won prizes at international academic olympiads and sports competitions, as well as their teachers and coaches, TDH (https://tdh.gov.tm/ru/post/47185/prezident-turkmenistana-prinyal-uchastie-v-ceremonii-nagrazhdeniya-grazhdan-otlichivshihsya-v-sferah-obrazovaniya-i-sporta) reports. The event took place at the Martial Arts Sports Complex in the Olympic Village of Ashgabat. Attendees included the Chairman of the Mejlis, deputies of the Cabinet of Ministers, heads of ministries and agencies, representatives of the military and law enforcement, the hakim of Ashgabat, members of the diplomatic corps, public organizations, universities, national sports federations, and media representatives. Before the official proceedings, the head of state visited an exhibition in the complex’s foyer. The display featured medals, trophies, and certificates won by Turkmen athletes at international competitions, samples of domestically produced sports equipment, and themed artworks. Video presentations on the performances of national teams and the development of physical culture and sports in the country were also shown. The main ceremony took place in the complex’s conference hall. Following the performance of the State Anthem of Turkmenistan and the raising of the national flag, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov addressed the participants. He congratulated the youth on their successful performances at international olympiads and competitions and highlighted the role of teachers and coaches in preparing the prize-winners. The head of state emphasized that the development of science, education, and sports remains one of the key directions of state policy. Next, the Presidential Decree awarding the winners and prize-winners of international academic olympiads and their instructors was read. Schoolchildren and students who achieved high results were awarded monetary prizes as follows: • Third place and bronze medals — 40,000 manat • Second place and silver medals — 70,000 manat • First place and gold medals — 100,000 manat Teachers who prepared the prize-winners of international olympiads received monetary awards of 100,000 manat. A separate part of the ceremony was dedicated to honoring athletes and their coaches. Athletes who won prizes at international competitions received monetary awards: • Third place — 40,000 manat • Second place — 70,000 manat Coaches who trained athletes—prize-winners of international tournaments—were also awarded monetary prizes. Athletes and coaches who won gold medals at world-class competitions were presented by the President of Turkmenistan with the keys to white 2025 Toyota Camry HEV 2.5L vehicles. The event also featured concert performances and demonstration displays by athletes in various sports. After the ceremony, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov posed for photographs with the awarded youth, teachers, athletes, and coaches. A festive sadaqa was held in the Olympic Village, and prayers were offered for the further development of education and sports, the country’s prosperity, and new international achievements of Turkmenistan.
Hero-Arkadag awarded commemorative medal marking 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's neutrality
16.12.2025The National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov has been awarded the anniversary medal “Türkmenistanyň Bitaraplygynyň 30 ýyllygyna” and a set of commemorative badges. The corresponding decree was signed by the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, according to Turkmenportal, citing the news program “Vatan.” The document notes the contribution of the Hero-Arkadag to the organization and conduct of international events within the framework of the International Year of Peace and Trust and the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's permanent neutrality. It also takes into account the activities of the State Organizing Commission, the implementation of the policy of neutrality in national legislation, as well as proposals received from representatives of public associations, labor collectives, and citizens of the country.
Turkmenistan and Equatorial Guinea discussed the development of bilateral relations
16.12.2025On December 15, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Serdar Muhammetdurdyev held a meeting with the newly appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Equatorial Guinea to Turkmenistan Luciano Nkogo Ndong Ayekaba (residing in Moscow). The ambassador presented copies of his credentials, according to the press service (https://www.mfa.gov.tm/ru/news/5813) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The parties confirmed their commitment to developing bilateral relations in the political, trade, economic, cultural, and humanitarian spheres. During the talks, they discussed issues related to strengthening the legal framework for cooperation. Special attention was paid to cooperation within international organizations, primarily the United Nations. They also considered opportunities for expanding trade, economic, and cultural ties. Ambassador Luciano Nkogo Ndong Ayekaba thanked the Turkmen side for its congratulations and expressed his readiness to promote the development of bilateral relations.
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