Policy
The MFA of Turkmenistan discussed strengthening cooperation with Switzerland
13.02.2026On 12 February, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Myahri Byashimova held a meeting with Thomas Stähli, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Swiss Confederation to Turkmenistan (resident in Baku), at the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of bilateral cooperation, noting the importance of further constructive and mutually respectful dialogue. Particular attention was paid to cooperation in international and regional organisations, including the UN. During the meeting, the diplomats discussed the development of trade, economic, cultural and humanitarian ties, as well as plans for joint events in 2026.
Russia and Turkmenistan discussed cooperation and upcoming ministerial contacts
13.02.2026On 12 February, the Foreign Affairs Ministers of Russia and Turkmenistan, Sergey Lavrov and Rashid Meredov, held a telephone conversation during which they discussed the current state of bilateral cooperation and upcoming high-level meetings. This was reported by AsmanNews. The parties touched upon issues of interaction within the CIS and cooperation between the Caspian states. In addition, the ministers exchanged congratulations on the professional holidays of their countries' diplomatic workers: in Russian Federation, Diplomatic Worker's Day is celebrated on 10 February, and in Turkmenistan, on 18 February.
Turkmenistan strengthens strategic dialogue with Germany
13.02.2026On 11 February 2026, a meeting between the German Foreign Affairs Minister and the Heads of Foreign Affairs of Central Asian countries took place in Berlin. Turkmenistan was represented at the meeting by Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Ahmet Gurbanov, according to the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The key topics of discussion were the development of energy cooperation, regional partnership and security issues. During the plenary session of the ‘Central Asia-Germany’ format, the Turkmen side noted the steady and constructive nature of cooperation with Germany, emphasising the need to take the partnership to a new level commensurate with the potential of the parties. Particular attention was paid to strengthening political and diplomatic dialogue to maintain stability in the region. The economic agenda outlined prospects for cooperation in transport and logistics, energy, industry, the chemical industry, mechanical engineering, medicine, the agricultural sector, water management, and the field of IT and artificial intelligence. The expediency of establishing joint production facilities and educational centres was noted. In the context of climate policy, Turkmenistan positively assessed the contribution of Germany and GIZ to the implementation of environmental projects. Following the meeting, the Berlin Declaration was adopted, aimed at expanding multilateral cooperation within the framework of the ‘Central Asia-Germany’ format. On the same day, A. Gurbanov took part in a meeting with representatives of German business, where interest was confirmed in expanding cooperation, including in the modernisation of transport infrastructure, the development of the port of Turkmenbashi, the formation of transit corridors, as well as in projects in the fields of ‘green’ energy, industry, agriculture, IT and the financial and banking sector. In addition, meetings were held with German Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Security Policy Director of the Federal Foreign Office Dominik Mutter and Chairman of the Bundestag Foreign Affairs Committee Armin Laschet. The parties confirmed their interest in further strengthening bilateral relations, intensifying interparliamentary contacts and coordination in international forums, primarily within the framework of the UN and the OSCE.
Turkmenistan and Pakistan strengthen parliamentary cooperation
12.02.2026A meeting of the Pakistan-Turkmenistan Interparliamentary Friendship Group was held in Islamabad with the participation of Atajan Movlamov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to Pakistan. This was reported by the Orient news agency. The meeting, chaired by Pakistani MP Sanjay Perwani, served as a platform for presenting Turkmenistan's potential. The Ambassador of Turkmenistan provided parliamentarians with information about the country's political system and foreign policy, which is based on permanent neutrality. The main focus was on the economy and logistics – the development of transport links and trans-regional trade routes. Tourism opportunities were also discussed, including natural attractions and Ahal-Teke horses as a national symbol. Sanjay Perwani emphasised the role of parliamentary friendship groups as a tool for strengthening bilateral dialogue. The parties expressed their intention to intensify the exchange of delegations and expand people-to-people contacts. Pakistan is considered by Turkmenistan to be an important partner in the southern direction, and the development of parliamentary cooperation is intended to promote major regional initiatives.
Diplomatic reception in Ashgabat strengthens ties between Turkmenistan and Iran
12.02.2026A formal reception dedicated to Iran's national holiday, Revolution Day, was held in Ashgabat. The event was organised by the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Representatives of the diplomatic corps, government agencies and the public attended the event. This was reported by the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. Iran's Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ali Mojtaba Rouzbahani noted the strength of bilateral ties and emphasised the historical and cultural proximity of the two countries. According to him, Iran respects Turkmenistan's policy of permanent neutrality and considers it an important factor for stability in the region. The diplomat also noted Turkmenistan's role in strengthening regional integration and developing economic cooperation. On the Turkmen side, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers, Minister of Foreign Affairs Rashid Meredov spoke. He conveyed congratulations to the President of Iran and the people of the country, and also emphasised the dynamic development of trade and economic ties. According to the minister, 2025 has been one of the most productive periods in the history of Turkmen-Iranian cooperation. During the reception, the parties expressed their confidence that the traditions of good neighbourliness and mutual respect would continue to serve as the basis for the implementation of joint projects. Particular attention will be paid to the development of regional integration and the expansion of humanitarian contacts.
The Ambassador of Turkmenistan presented his credentials to the King of Thailand
11.02.2026On 10 February, Muhammetniyaz Mashalov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to Thailand (residing in Kuala Lumpur), presented his credentials to King Maha Vajiralongkorn of Thailand. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The ceremony took place in Bangkok at the Amphorn Royal Palace. During the event, the Ambassador of Turkmenistan conveyed warm greetings and best wishes to the King of Thailand from the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, and the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. The King congratulated the Head of the diplomatic mission on his appointment to this responsible position and wished him success in his work. He also noted his desire to visit Turkmenistan in the future. Turkmenistan's interest in further developing cooperation with Thailand in the political-diplomatic, trade-economic and cultural-humanitarian spheres was confirmed. After the ceremony, Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow held a brief conversation with the new ambassadors, noting his readiness to support them and assist in their diplomatic activities. At the end of the meeting, the parties agreed to maintain regular contacts at the level of foreign ministries to strengthen bilateral cooperation between Turkmenistan and Thailand.
Turkmenistan and Afghanistan discussed cooperation and infrastructure projects
11.02.2026On 9 February, in Mazar-i-Sharif, the Consul General of Turkmenistan in Afghanistan, B. Kabayev, met with the Governor of Balkh Province, Mohammad Yousuf Wafa. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the development of cooperation in the trade, economic, transport, transit and energy sectors, as well as the implementation of major infrastructure projects between the two countries. The meeting also highlighted events in Turkmenistan dedicated to the 2026 motto, ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses,’ and the 35th anniversary of the country's independence.
Turkmenistan and WHO discussed the development of cooperation in healthcare
11.02.2026On 10 February, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan Myahri Byashimova held a video meeting with the Head of the WHO Country Office in Ashgabat, Egor Zaitsev, and Deputy Minister of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan Azat Ovezov. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of cooperation between Turkmenistan and WHO in priority areas. Particular attention was paid to preparations for the High-Level Dialogue on Global Health Diplomacy, which will be held in Turkmenistan in February. The meeting confirmed the mutual interest in deepening the partnership and the readiness to implement joint initiatives and projects in the field of healthcare.
The MFA of Turkmenistan awarded medals to mark the 30th anniversary of neutrality
11.02.2026On 10 February, the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan held a ceremony to award representatives of international organisations with the commemorative medal ‘Türkmenistanyň Bitaraplygynyň 30 ýyllygyna’ (‘30th Anniversary of Turkmenistan's Neutrality’). This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers, Foreign Affairs Minister Rashid Meredov read out the Decree of the President of Turkmenistan on the awarding and presented medals and commemorative silver badges. Among those awarded were UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan Dmitry Shlapachenko and Permanent Representative of the UN Development Programme Narine Sahakyan. The contribution of foreign citizens to strengthening the independence of Turkmenistan, developing international cooperation and promoting a policy of Peace and Trust on the world stage was noted.
The President of Turkmenistan congratulated the President of Iran on Revolution Day
11.02.2026President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov sent congratulations to President of the Islamic Republic of Iran Masoud Pezeshkian on the occasion of the national holiday, Revolution Day. This was reported by the internet resource AsmanNews. The message noted that Turkmenistan and Iran have centuries-old good-neighbourly relations, which are developing on the basis of friendship and mutual respect. The Head of State expressed confidence in the further strengthening of bilateral cooperation in the interests of the peoples of the two countries. In conclusion, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov wished Masoud Pezeshkian health and well-being, and the people of Iran peace and prosperity.
The President of Turkmenistan received the Minister of Trade of Turkey
11.02.2026On 10 February, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov received Minister of Trade of the Republic of Turkey Omer Bolat, who arrived in Turkmenistan on a visit, in Ashgabat. During the meeting, the development of Turkmen-Turkish cooperation, primarily in the trade and economic sphere, was discussed, according to the state news agency TDH. Omer Bolat conveyed greetings from the President of the Republic of Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, to the Head of State and National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. He noted the role of Turkmenistan's neutral status in strengthening regional stability and emphasised the importance of the Turkish President's participation in the Forum dedicated to the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's Permanent Neutrality, which was held in Ashgabat in December last year. President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov sent his best wishes to President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and wished success to the Exhibition of Export Goods of the Republic of Turkey, which opened in the capital. The parties emphasised the strategic nature of bilateral relations based on mutual respect and regular contacts at the government level. It was noted that the Republic of Turkey occupies a leading position in Turkmenistan's foreign trade turnover, and the volume of mutual trade is growing annually. The Exhibition of Export Goods of Turkmenistan, held in Istanbul from 2 to 5 July last year, was cited as an example of successful cooperation. The Head of State expressed confidence that the current exhibition in Ashgabat will contribute to the expansion of business ties and the attraction of investment. The Turkmen side confirmed its readiness to consider specific proposals from Turkish partners. In conclusion, the parties expressed confidence in the further development of bilateral cooperation.
The Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Pakistan spoke at a festival in Taxila
10.02.2026Turkmenistan's Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Pakistan, Atajan Movlamov, took part in the annual Orange Festival, which was held on 7 February at the Zaildar House complex in the historic city of Taxila (Punjab province) with the participation of diplomats, officials and representatives of civil society. This was reported by the press service of the Turkmen diplomatic mission. The event was organised by the Chairman of the International Relations Committee of the Islamabad High Court Bar Association, Zaildar Ahsan Shah, in conjunction with the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Pakistan and the deans of the diplomatic corps and military attaché corps. The guest of honour at the festival, Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider Khan, emphasised the importance of cultural diplomacy for the development of international cooperation. The Ambassador of Turkmenistan noted the historical role of Taxila as the centre of Gandhara civilisation and the importance of preserving cultural heritage. The festival featured a cultural programme with national cuisine, traditional crafts, horse dances and sports competitions, and guests were particularly interested in the local variety of oranges called ‘Khanpur’.
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