Policy
The Turkmen Ambassador in Islamabad received the new Portuguese Ambassador
26.03.2026On 25 March, the new Portuguese Ambassador to Pakistan, Paulo Miguel Guedes Domingues, paid a visit to the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Islamabad to meet with the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to Pakistan, Atajan Movlamov. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. During the meeting, the Turkmen Ambassador congratulated the Portuguese diplomat on his appointment and wished him success and fruitful work in Pakistan. The parties discussed issues relating to the functioning of the diplomatic corps in the Pakistani capital and cooperation with the country’s state and private organisations. Following the negotiations, both sides reaffirmed their mutual desire to maintain regular contacts within the diplomatic community.
A forum on gender equality has begun in Ashgabat
26.03.2026A forum entitled ‘Advancing Gender Equality: An Inter-Parliamentary Dialogue to Strengthen Legislative Frameworks to Ensure Progress on Gender Equality and Gender-Based Violence’ has opened in Ashgabat. This was reported by the press service of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan. The event is organised by the Mejlis of Turkmenistan in conjunction with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). Participants are discussing the implementation of state policy on gender equality, measures to prevent and combat gender-based violence, and the incorporation of universally recognised norms of international law into national legislation. In addition, the focus is on the development and practical application of inclusive laws, as well as the improvement of social protection and accountability systems, taking gender aspects into account.
Putin emphasised the strategic partnership between Russia and Turkmenistan
26.03.2026Relations between Russia and Turkmenistan are characterised by a deep strategic partnership. This was stated by the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin, in a message of congratulations to the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, on the occasion of the spring festival of Nowruz, reports TDH. Putin expressed confidence in the further development of cooperation in all areas, aimed at the welfare of the peoples and the strengthening of security in Central Asia and the Caspian region. The Russian President wished Serdar Berdimuhamedov good health and success in his work, and the people of Turkmenistan happiness and prosperity.
Turkmenistan and the EU discussed the development of their partnership
26.03.2026On 25 March, a meeting took place between Myahri Byashimova, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, and Charlotte Adrian, Head of the Central Asia and Afghanistan Unit at the European Commission’s Directorate-General for International Partnerships (DG INTPA). This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed prospects for cooperation between Turkmenistan and the European Union. Particular attention was paid to trade and economic ties and the development of transport and transit connectivity between Central Asia and the EU. Issues relating to cooperation in the energy sector were considered separately. Interest in continuing sector-specific dialogue was confirmed, as well as in developing partnerships in the field of ‘green’ energy and the climate agenda. EU projects in Turkmenistan and the region were also discussed, including initiatives in the fields of youth, sustainable energy, trade and digital connectivity. Following the meeting, a commitment was reaffirmed to further strengthen cooperation both bilaterally and within the framework of the ‘Central Asia–European Union’ dialogue.
The Foreign Ministry discussed the implementation of the National Plan for Gender Equality
26.03.2026On 25 March, a meeting was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan to discuss the implementation of the recommendations of the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women and the Universal Periodic Review regarding gender equality. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The event was attended by the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Myahri Byashimova; the Vice-Chair of the Committee, Marianne Mikko; representatives of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan, the Office of the Ombudsman, relevant ministries and international organisations, including the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and UNFPA. Turkmenistan’s commitment to its international obligations in the field of women’s rights, including the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, was noted. The Committee’s recommendations, adopted in 2024, are viewed as a basis for further steps. Participants discussed the implementation of the Roadmap, the development of mechanisms to protect women’s rights, and inter-ministerial cooperation. The implementation of the ‘National Action Plan on Gender Equality for 2026–2030’ was reviewed. Following the meeting, the importance of cooperation with international organisations and the use of international experience to improve the national system for ensuring equal rights and opportunities was emphasised.
Serdar Berdimuhamedov sent a message of congratulations to the President of Bangladesh
26.03.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, has sent a message of congratulations to the President of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, Mohammed Shahabuddin, on the occasion of the 55th anniversary of the country’s independence. This was reported by TDH. The Head of State wished Mohammed Shahabuddin good health, happiness and prosperity. He also extended his wishes for peace, further progress and prosperity to the people of Bangladesh.
Turkmenistan and Japan discussed current issues on the bilateral agenda
26.03.2026On 25 March, Atadurdy Bayramov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to Japan, held a meeting with Kunimitsu Ayano, Japan’s Foreign Affairs Minister. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. During the meeting, the Turkmen diplomat thanked the Japanese side for its assistance in organising the visit of the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, to Japan, which took place in December 2025. He also confirmed Ashgabat’s readiness to host Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in Turkmenistan at a time convenient for the Japanese side. The interlocutors reviewed the implementation of agreements reached following high-level contacts and discussed priority areas of bilateral cooperation. The focus was on political and diplomatic interaction, trade and economic ties, cultural and humanitarian contacts, inter-parliamentary cooperation, energy security issues and coordination in multilateral international forums. In addition, Kunimitsu Ayano expressed her gratitude to the leadership of Turkmenistan for their assistance in establishing a humanitarian corridor, which ensured the safe evacuation of Japanese citizens from Iran against the backdrop of the current situation in the country.
India intends to strengthen educational cooperation with Turkmenistan
26.03.2026India’s Ambassador to Turkmenistan, Bandaru Wilsonbabu, spoke of the steady development of Turkmen-Indian relations and highlighted their historical foundations. According to him, cooperation between the two countries is based on centuries-old cultural and trade ties, reports the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The diplomat noted that, despite having gained independence relatively recently, India and Turkmenistan have deep historical roots of cooperation. Contacts between the peoples, he said, existed as far back as several millennia ago. Particular attention was paid to humanitarian cooperation. Interest in Indian culture, including cinema, music, yoga and Ayurveda, is growing in Turkmenistan. A Centre for Yoga and Traditional Medicine operates in Ashgabat, a Hindi Corner has been opened at the D. Azadi Turkmen National Institute of World Languages, and an Ayurveda clinic is in operation at the Turkmen State Medical University named after M. Garryev. Plans include inviting specialists from India to teach Hindi and traditional medicine. This will help to expand academic cooperation. The two sides are developing cooperation in the field of education. Every year, Turkmen students enrol in Indian universities. Consideration is being given to expanding study programmes to meet the needs of the economy, including the oil and gas sector, the chemical industry, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, digital technologies and education. The Ambassador expressed his gratitude to the leadership of Turkmenistan for supporting bilateral cooperation and confirmed India’s readiness to further develop it.
The Consul General of Turkmenistan met with the Governor of Istanbul
25.03.2026On 24 March, a meeting took place at the Consulate General of Turkmenistan in the Republic of Turkey between Consul General O. Jumanazarov and the Governor of Istanbul, Davut Gul. This was reported by IIC. The parties noted the importance of further strengthening bilateral relations based on the principles of friendship, mutual respect and mutually beneficial cooperation. Following the meeting, the Governor of Istanbul was presented with a book by the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, entitled ‘Neutrality of Turkmenistan – A Bright Way of Peace and Trust’.
The visit to China has strengthened cooperation between Ashgabat and Beijing
25.03.2026The friendly visit to the People’s Republic of China by Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, has given new impetus to bilateral cooperation. The negotiations confirmed the parties’ commitment to a comprehensive strategic partnership and coordination on the international stage, reports TDH. The parties noted the development of political dialogue and the convergence of approaches to issues of sustainable development, security and international cooperation. The importance of cooperation within the framework of the UN and the ‘Central Asia–China’ format was emphasised. Key attention was paid to the fuel and energy sector. Projects with the China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) were discussed, including the further development of the ‘Galkynysh’ field and preparations for new phases of its development. The 20th anniversary of cooperation in the energy sector was marked, including the implementation of the ‘Turkmenistan–China’ gas pipeline. Prospects for expanding economic ties were considered, including the establishment of joint ventures and the development of trade. Cooperation in the transport and logistics sector was highlighted separately, utilising the potential of the Turkmenbashi International Sea Port and the ‘East–West’ corridors. On the humanitarian agenda, discussions covered plans to open the ‘Lu Ban Workshops’ and the Centre for Traditional Chinese Medicine, as well as the expansion of educational programmes and academic exchanges. Issues of cooperation in agriculture and ‘green’ energy were addressed, including the introduction of water-saving technologies and modern equipment. Following the negotiations, mutual support for key foreign policy principles was reaffirmed, including the ‘One China’ policy and Turkmenistan’s status of permanent neutrality. An invitation to visit Turkmenistan was extended to the Chinese side, which was accepted. The parties expressed their readiness to further expand their partnership across all areas.
The Ambassador of Turkmenistan met with the organisers of ‘Green EXPO 2027’
25.03.2026On 23 March, Turkmenistan’s Ambassador to Japan, A. Bayramov, met with Komura Masato, Secretary-General of the ‘Green EXPO 2027 Yokohama’ International Horticultural Exhibition Association. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed Turkmenistan’s participation in the exhibition, which will take place in Yokohama from 19 March to 26 September 2027. The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan has been appointed as the main commission to coordinate the country’s participation in the event. The Japanese side thanked Turkmenistan for its intention to participate and assured that it would provide all necessary support for the country’s successful representation at the exhibition.
Ashgabat and Kampala are preparing for political consultations
25.03.2026On 24 March, a meeting took place at the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan between Rashid Meredov, Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan, and Oryem Henry Okello, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uganda. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of cooperation in the political, diplomatic, trade, economic, cultural and humanitarian spheres. They noted the development of bilateral relations and high-level contacts. They emphasised the significance of the participation of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Uganda, Robinah Nabbanja, in the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries, held in August 2025 at the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone, as well as the Ugandan delegation’s participation in other international events in Turkmenistan. The parties confirmed their interest in holding the first round of political consultations between the foreign ministries in the second half of 2026 in Ashgabat. Separately, issues of cooperation within international organisations, including the UN, were discussed, with a focus on peace, security and sustainable development. Prospects for expanding trade and economic ties were considered, including in agriculture and the oil and gas sector. Cooperation in education, science, culture, sport and tourism was also touched upon. Following the meeting, the commitment to further developing the partnership across all areas was reaffirmed.
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