Policy
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan discussed cooperation with the Austrian-Turkmen Society
16.12.2025On December 15, Deputy Foreign Minister of Turkmenistan Myahri Byashimova met with the head of the Austrian-Turkmen Society, Neda Berger, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the current state of Turkmen-Austrian cooperation, focusing on cultural and humanitarian issues. The role of the Austrian-Turkmen Society in the development of bilateral relations was noted. During the meeting, plans and projects for 2026 involving the society were reviewed. Neda Berger's personal contribution to strengthening cooperation between Turkmenistan and the Republic of Austria was highlighted. The Turkmen side expressed gratitude for Neda Berger's participation in events dedicated to the International Year of Peace and Trust, the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's permanent neutrality, and International Neutrality Day. Neda Berger also received congratulations on being awarded prestigious honors
Turkmenistan represented at UN Alliance of Civilizations forum
16.12.2025On December 14, a delegation from Turkmenistan led by Deputy Foreign Minister Ahmet Gurbanov took part in the 11th Global Forum of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) in Riyadh. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The forum brought together representatives of governments, youth and women's organizations, civil society, and the media from different countries. The central theme was the development of dialogue and mutual respect in a multipolar world. Speaking at the forum, Ahmet Gurbanov noted the role of the UN Alliance of Civilizations against the backdrop of growing mistrust and polarization in international relations. He emphasized the consistency of UNAOC's activities with Turkmenistan's initiative to declare 2025 the International Year of Peace and Trust. The Deputy Minister presented Turkmenistan's proposals for joint work with the Alliance. These include promoting a culture of peace and mediation, developing humanitarian and intercultural dialogue, creating regional and youth cooperation platforms, and strengthening trust between peoples. At the end of the forum, participants adopted the Riyadh Declaration, which defines the further development of the UN Alliance of Civilizations.
Turkmenistan and Sao Tome and Principe have established diplomatic relations
16.12.2025On December 11, Turkmenistan and the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe established diplomatic relations. The signing ceremony of the Protocol took place at the building of the Turkmenistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the press service (https://www.mfa.gov.tm/ru/news/5810) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan reported. The document was signed by Rashid Meredov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan and Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Celso Vaz do Nascimento Matos, Minister of Health of the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe. The parties congratulated the governments and peoples of the two countries on the establishment of diplomatic relations. It was noted that this lays the foundation for the development of political-diplomatic, trade-economic, and cultural-humanitarian cooperation, as well as for interaction on international platforms, primarily within the framework of the United Nations.
The fifth meeting of the Heads of the Foreign Affairs Ministries of Afghanistan's neighbouring countries will be held in Ashgabat
15.12.2025Afghanistan's neighbouring countries have agreed to hold a fifth meeting at the level of Foreign Affairs Ministers in Ashgabat, according to the Iranian Foreign Affairs Ministry following a meeting of special representatives in Tehran. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. Representatives from Turkmenistan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, China, Russia and Iran participated in the negotiations. They supported efforts to reduce tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan and agreed to hold a second regional meeting in Islamabad in March 2026. The parties emphasised the importance of regional integration in resolving the problems of the Middle East and expressed their readiness to contribute to stability in Afghanistan, as well as to the fight against terrorism, smuggling and drug crime.
The President of Turkmenistan congratulated the King of Bahrain on the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations
15.12.2025President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov sent a congratulatory message to King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Turkmenistan and the Kingdom of Bahrain. This was reported by the news agency TDH. The message notes that bilateral relations are based on the principles of mutual respect and equality, as well as on common goals of sustainable development. The Head of State confirmed Turkmenistan's interest in further expanding cooperation and expressed confidence in its steady development. The President of Turkmenistan wished the King of Bahrain good health and well-being, and the people of the Kingdom of Bahrain peace and prosperity.
Palestinian Ambassador highly praised the role and achievements of Turkmen women
15.12.2025Palestinian Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Turkmenistan Rana Abu Hijleh took part in the International Conference ‘The Role of Women in Modern Society: Promoting International Cooperation for Sustainable Development,’ which was held in the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone. This was reported by the online news resource TerraNews. The Diplomat shared her positive impressions of the country, noting the hospitality of the Turkmen people and the foreign policy of the state. She paid special attention to the architecture of Ashgabat, emphasising the harmony and atmosphere of tranquillity created by the white marble buildings. The Ambassador highly praised the level of organisation of the forum and its topics, noting the contribution of Oguljahan Atabayeva, Vice-President for Medical Activities of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation, and the importance of the conference for expanding opportunities for women. According to her, the event clearly demonstrates Turkmenistan's attention to the role of women in society and their professional development. The Head of the diplomatic mission also emphasised the high potential of Turkmen women, their active participation both in preserving cultural heritage — carpet weaving and embroidery — and in modern fields, including science and technology. In conclusion, she expressed her gratitude to the country's leadership and wished the women of Turkmenistan further success, noting the growth of their representation in government bodies and key professions. The Palestinian Diplomat's participation in the conference confirmed Turkmenistan's active international humanitarian agenda and its efforts to expand dialogue with the countries of the Middle East.
Visit of the UN Deputy Secretary-General to Turkmenistan: focus on peace and cooperation
14.12.2025Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Deputy Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Haoliang Xu paid an official visit to Turkmenistan from 11 to 13 December. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. He took part in events dedicated to the International Year of Peace and Trust and the 30th anniversary of the country's Permanent Neutrality. In Ashgabat, Haoliang Xu spoke at the International Forum on Peace and Trust, emphasising the importance of Turkmenistan's neutrality for strengthening peace, sustainable development and regional cooperation. On behalf of UNDP, he reaffirmed his support for initiatives aimed at improving the well-being of the population and developing an inclusive society. As part of his visit, the UN Deputy Secretary-General also participated in celebrations marking the 30th anniversary of neutrality, including the opening of the architectural complex of neutrality, the flag-raising ceremony, a gala concert and a thematic exhibition, the UNDP reported.
Xi Jinping congratulated the President of Turkmenistan on the 30th anniversary of neutrality
14.12.2025The President of the People's Republic of China, Xi Jinping, sent congratulations to the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the proclamation of the country's Permanent Neutrality status. This was reported by TDH. The message notes that, on the initiative of Turkmenistan, the UN General Assembly declared this year the International Year of Peace and Trust. Xi Jinping congratulated the Turkmen side on holding the Peace and Trust Forum dedicated to this date. The Head of China emphasised that China and Turkmenistan are close friends and partners, and that Beijing supports Ashgabat's policy of permanent neutrality and its efforts to strengthen international and regional stability.
Turkmenistan and North Korea discussed the development of bilateral relations
14.12.2025On 13 December, a meeting was held between Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan Myahri Byashimova and Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea to the Russian Federation Sin Hong Chol. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The DPRK Ambassador arrived in Ashgabat to participate in events dedicated to the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's Permanent Neutrality and International Neutrality Day. During the meeting, he congratulated the Turkmen side on the anniversary of the country's neutral status. The parties noted the increased activity in recent years in contacts between the foreign ministries of the two states. It was emphasised that within the framework of these contacts, issues of bilateral partnership and cooperation in international organisations are being considered. It was also noted that the regular exchange of messages between the leaders of Turkmenistan and the DPRK reflects the level of mutual respect and understanding in relations between the two countries. At the end of the meeting, mutual commitment to further expanding cooperation in areas of mutual interest was confirmed.
The Chairman of the DPT noted the strengthening of the partnership between Turkmenistan and China
14.12.2025A friendship meeting was held in Ashgabat with the participation of representatives of public organisations of Turkmenistan and Special Envoy of the President of the People's Republic of China Xi Jinping, Vice-Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress Peng Qinghua. This was reported by the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. Speaking at the meeting, the Chairman of the Democratic Party of Turkmenistan, Ata Serdarov, noted the stable and constructive nature of the Turkmen-Chinese strategic partnership, emphasising its consistent expansion and deepening. According to him, relations between Turkmenistan and China are becoming increasingly broad and friendly. He specifically noted China's support for Turkmenistan's chosen path of development and policy of permanent neutrality at the highest state level. Ata Serdarov pointed out that regular inter-state, inter-governmental and inter-party contacts testify to the mutual interest of the parties in further strengthening cooperation. Among the significant events mentioned were the Second ‘Central Asia-China’ Summit in Astana, as well as the visit of the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, to China to participate in the SCO Summit and hold negotiations with the President of the People's Republic of China, Xi Jinping. It is emphasised that Turkmenistan and China share the same positions on key issues on the global and regional agenda, and that bilateral relations are based on the principles of equality, mutual respect and trust. In conclusion, it was noted that inter-party dialogue is seen as an effective format for socio-political interaction, contributing to the development of bilateral and regional ties, as well as the realisation of the potential for cooperation between Turkmenistan and China.
Turkmenistan and Eswatini discussed prospects for bilateral relations
14.12.2025On 13 December, a meeting was held in Ashgabat between Rashid Meredov, Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan, and Russell Dlamini, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Eswatini. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The Prime Minister of Eswatini arrived in Turkmenistan to participate in the International Forum dedicated to the International Year of Peace and Trust, International Neutrality Day and the 30th anniversary of the country's Permanent Neutrality. During the meeting, he congratulated the Turkmen side on the anniversary of its neutral status and noted the importance of the forum as a platform for strengthening trust and discussing topical international issues. The parties discussed the prospects for bilateral cooperation in the political-diplomatic, trade-economic and cultural-humanitarian spheres. Particular attention was paid to the need to establish contacts between the business communities of the two countries. At the end of the meeting, mutual commitment to developing cooperation within international organisations, primarily the United Nations, was confirmed.
A meeting with the Deputy Director-General of UNESCO was held at the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan
14.12.2025On 13 December, at the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan, a meeting was held between Foreign Affairs Minister Rashid Meredov and Xing Qu, UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Education, Science and Culture. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. Xing Qu arrived in Ashgabat to participate in events dedicated to the International Year of Peace and Trust, International Neutrality Day, and the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's Permanent Neutrality. He congratulated the Turkmen side on the anniversary of its neutral status and noted the importance of the High-Level Forum for promoting the goals of peace, stability and sustainable development. During the meeting, the high level of cooperation between Turkmenistan and UNESCO was noted. Particular attention was paid to the inclusion of the national nomination ‘The art of breeding Turkmen alabay’ in the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The decision was taken on 11 December at a meeting of the UNESCO Inter-governmental Committee in New Delhi. The parties discussed priority areas for further cooperation and practical issues related to the implementation of joint projects. The meeting confirmed the mutual readiness to expand cooperation in the fields of education, science and culture, as well as in the preservation of tangible and intangible heritage.
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