Policy
Serdar Berdimuhamedov Sends Condolences to the President of the Philippines
10.06.2026President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov has sent a message of condolence to President of the Republic of the Philippines Ferdinand Marcos following the earthquake on the island of Mindanao, which resulted in casualties and injuries. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. On behalf of the people and Government of Turkmenistan, as well as personally, the head of state expressed his support to the families and relatives of those who lost their lives and wished a speedy recovery to all those injured.
Talks Held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan with the Executive Secretary of the CTBTO
09.06.2026Turkmenistan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Rashid Meredov, held a meeting on June 8 with Dr. Robert Floyd, Executive Secretary of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO). This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of cooperation between Turkmenistan and the CTBTO, as well as issues on the international agenda related to disarmament, arms control, and nuclear non-proliferation. Special attention was given to events marking the 30th anniversary of the opening for signature of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty. The participants emphasized the Treaty’s role in strengthening the nuclear non-proliferation regime and advancing the goals of global disarmament. The interlocutors highlighted the importance of international cooperation in ensuring peace, security, and sustainable development. Turkmenistan reaffirmed its commitment to fulfilling its international obligations and strengthening trust at the global level. The meeting also addressed practical aspects of cooperation, including specialist training and participation in CTBTO programs. At the conclusion of the meeting, the parties confirmed their interest in further developing the partnership and maintaining regular dialogue.
Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan Discussed the Development of Bilateral Cooperation
09.06.2026On June 8, a meeting was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan between Deputy Foreign Minister of Turkmenistan A. Gurbanov and Deputy Foreign Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan B. Usmanov, who arrived in Ashgabat to participate in the high-level meeting marking the 30th anniversary of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed issues related to Turkmen-Uzbek cooperation in the political-diplomatic, trade-economic, and cultural-humanitarian spheres. Particular attention was paid to the implementation of agreements reached following visits at the highest and high levels. The interlocutors emphasized the importance of the existing legal and contractual framework for the further development of bilateral partnership. The sides also exchanged views on cooperation within regional and international organizations. They reaffirmed their readiness to support initiatives aimed at strengthening regional stability, security, and economic development. Following the meeting, the parties noted the positive dynamics of Turkmen-Uzbek relations and confirmed their mutual interest in further expanding cooperation.
Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan Foreign Ministries Discuss Consular Cooperation
09.06.2026A regular round of Turkmen-Kazakh inter-ministerial consultations on consular affairs was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, according to the IIC. The Turkmen delegation was headed by Dovletmurat Muratov, Head of the Consular Service Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, while the Kazakh delegation was led by Azamat Aubekov, Director of the Consular Service Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan. During the talks, the parties discussed issues related to consular cooperation, migration management, the protection of the rights and interests of citizens of both countries, as well as collaboration within the framework of international legal conventions. Particular attention was given to expanding the legal and treaty framework and introducing digital technologies into consular activities. The participants also exchanged experience in this field. Following the meeting, the heads of the delegations signed the relevant Protocol and reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining regular information exchanges on consular matters. The next round of consultations is scheduled to take place in Astana.
Turkmenistan and the IMF Discuss Economic Cooperation Issues
09.06.2026Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Serdar Muhammetdurdyev held a meeting on June 8 with a delegation from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which arrived in Ashgabat as part of the IMF Article IV Consultation Mission. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of cooperation between Turkmenistan and the IMF and exchanged views on macroeconomic policy, sustainable development, and strengthening the country's financial system. Particular attention during the meeting was given to external economic factors affecting regional and global economies. The importance of measures aimed at diversifying export routes, modernizing transport and logistics infrastructure, and reducing external risks was emphasized. The participants also reviewed issues related to Turkmenistan’s integration into the global economy, including the country’s accession process to the World Trade Organization (WTO). IMF representatives noted the efforts being made to improve national legislation and develop the statistical system in line with international standards. At the conclusion of the meeting, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further developing cooperation and maintaining a constructive dialogue.
Turkmenistan Reaffirms Commitment to International Nuclear Security
09.06.2026President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov received Robert Floyd, Executive Secretary of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO), on June 8. This was reported by the AsmanNews online news outlet. During the meeting, the parties discussed Turkmenistan’s cooperation with the CTBTO and international efforts to maintain peace and security. The President noted that 2026 will mark the 30th anniversary of the adoption of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT). It was emphasized that Turkmenistan was among the first countries to sign the treaty, reaffirming its commitment to the principles of peace and international security. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov also highlighted Robert Floyd’s participation in the high-level regional conference dedicated to the 30th anniversary of the Treaty’s adoption, which is being held in Turkmenistan. The discussion underscored that Turkmenistan consistently pursues a foreign policy based on its status of permanent neutrality and advocates resolving international issues through political and diplomatic means. It was noted that the country is a party to key international agreements in the field of nuclear security, including the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT), and the Central Asian Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone Treaty. The sides also noted the constructive nature of cooperation between Turkmenistan and the CTBTO. Concluding the meeting, the President of Turkmenistan expressed confidence that Robert Floyd’s visit would contribute to the further development of cooperation with the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization.
Turkmen Foreign Minister Holds Meeting with U.S. Deputy Secretary of State
09.06.2026Turkmenistan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Rashid Meredov, held a meeting on June 8 with U.S. Deputy Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy Sarah Rogers, who arrived in Ashgabat on a working visit. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the development of Turkmen-U.S. cooperation in the political, diplomatic, trade, economic, cultural, and humanitarian spheres. They highlighted the important role of high-level and senior-level contacts in strengthening bilateral relations. Particular attention was given to cooperation in education, science, culture, and the digitalization of the economy. It was emphasized that Turkmenistan participates in more than 15 U.S. educational programs and continues to expand cooperation between specialized universities of the two countries. The interlocutors reviewed prospects for implementing joint cultural and humanitarian projects and noted the achievements of the Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation Program, which has been operating in Turkmenistan for 25 years. The meeting also covered cooperation in the fields of media, public relations, and public diplomacy, including the exchange of experience and the development of professional contacts. Both sides confirmed their interest in further expanding cooperation on both a bilateral basis and within the C5+1 framework.
The week in Turkmenistan passed under the sign of economic development
08.06.2026The past week in Turkmenistan was marked by a series of important political, economic, cultural, and sports events, the state news agency TDH reports. On June 1, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedow held a working meeting on the development of the agricultural sector and regions of the country. The head of state instructed that the grain harvest campaign be properly organized and congratulated Turkmen silkworm breeders on fulfilling their contractual obligations to deliver more than 2,100 tons of silkworm cocoons. The country widely celebrated International Children’s Day. Festive events were held in Ashgabat and the city of Arkadag. Children received gifts on behalf of the President of Turkmenistan and the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Care. On June 3, Turkmenistan marked World Bicycle Day. President Serdar Berdimuhamedow took part in a mass cycling event in Ashgabat. Representatives of government institutions, the diplomatic corps, youth, and athletes joined the initiative. On June 4, a meeting of the State Security Council was held, summarizing the results of the work of military and law enforcement agencies for January–May of the current year. Issues related to strengthening national security and improving the performance of security structures were also considered. On the same day, the President of Turkmenistan held meetings with Eric Stewart, Executive Director of the Turkmen–U.S. Business Council, and Cevdet Yılmaz, Vice President of the Republic of Türkiye. The parties discussed prospects for developing trade, economic, and investment cooperation. On June 5, at a Cabinet of Ministers meeting, the results of the country’s socio-economic development for the first five months of 2026 were summarized. According to the government, GDP growth amounted to 6.3 percent, industrial output increased by 10.4 percent, retail turnover by 10 percent, and foreign trade turnover by 8 percent. During the past week, the President of Turkmenistan signed documents approving the National Program for Transforming Turkmenistan into a Tobacco-Free Country for 2026–2030 and the National Forestry Program for 2026–2030. A meeting was also held between the head of state and Adil Kerimli, Minister of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan. The focus was on cultural and humanitarian cooperation. Days of Azerbaijani Culture were held in Ashgabat and Arkadag. Among the key events of the week were the start of the grain harvest campaign in the Ahal, Lebap, and Mary velayats, the international exhibition-fair “Turkmentextile Expo–2026,” and an international environmental conference dedicated to World Environment Day. The events discussed issues of industrial development, expansion of international cooperation, environmental protection, and the implementation of “green” economy principles.
Rustam Minnikhanov Congratulates the President of Turkmenistan on Kurban Bayram
08.06.2026Rustam Minnikhanov, the Head of the Republic of Tatarstan of the Russian Federation, sent a congratulatory message to the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, on the occasion of Kurban Bayram. This was reported by AsmanNews. In his message, Rustam Minnikhanov emphasized the significance of the holiday as one of the most important celebrations in the Muslim world and expressed his hope that it would contribute to strengthening mercy, justice, mutual understanding, and good-neighborly relations. The Head of Tatarstan also wished the President of Turkmenistan good health, well-being, a festive spirit, and success in his state activities, while wishing the people of the country continued prosperity.
Turkmenistan Participates in C5+1 Meeting of Culture Ministers
07.06.2026On June 5, a meeting of the culture ministers of the Central Asian countries and the United States was held in Tashkent in the C5+1 format. The event took place at the JW Marriott Hotel, according to the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The participants discussed further cooperation in the preservation, study, and promotion of cultural heritage. Particular attention was given to joint projects involving museums, research centers, and specialized institutions, as well as the expansion of professional exchange programs. The sides also reviewed issues related to the digitalization of historical and cultural heritage sites and the introduction of modern technologies for their research, documentation, and preservation. Speaking at the meeting, Deputy Minister of Culture of Turkmenistan G. Muradaliyev emphasized the importance of cultural cooperation in fostering dialogue between the countries of Central Asia and the United States. He also highlighted Turkmenistan’s experience in working with international partners on cultural heritage preservation projects, including initiatives supported by the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation. The meeting followed up on agreements reached at the C5+1 Summit in Washington in November 2025, which resulted in the adoption of a Joint Statement of Intent on cultural heritage preservation.
Turkmenistan delegation holds a series of meetings during the ILC session
06.06.2026In Geneva, on the sidelines of the 114th session of the International Labour Conference, a meeting was held between the chairpersons of national trade union centers of Central Asian countries and representatives of the Bureau for Workers’ Activities of the International Labour Organization (ACTRAV). This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. Representatives of trade unions from Mongolia and Azerbaijan also took part in the meeting. The participants discussed the development of the trade union movement, strengthening social dialogue, and expanding cooperation between trade union organizations in the region. They also exchanged information on planned activities for the current year. Separately, preparations were discussed for an upcoming meeting in November in Ashgabat of the chairpersons of trade unions from Central Asian countries and Azerbaijan, as well as a scientific and practical conference. These events are included in the 2026–2027 Joint Action Plan signed in May between the ILO Bureau for Workers’ Activities and the National Center of Trade Unions of Turkmenistan. The parties confirmed their readiness to continue regional cooperation and further develop interaction in the interests of workers. Also, on June 4, on the sidelines of the session, a meeting took place between the Chairperson of the National Center of Trade Unions of Turkmenistan, Oguldzhanet Berdiliyeva, and the Chairperson of the Federation of Trade Unions of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Satybaldy Dauletalin. The sides discussed the development of cooperation between the trade unions of the two countries, the protection of workers’ labor rights, and the strengthening of social partnership. The Chairperson of the Federation of Trade Unions of the Republic of Kazakhstan invited Oguldzhanet Berdiliyeva to visit Kazakhstan for a bilateral meeting and the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the national trade union centers. The Turkmen side also received an invitation to a regional trade union conference in Almaty. Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their interest in further developing cooperation between the trade unions of the two countries.
Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan aim to expand cultural ties
06.06.2026On June 5, Turkmenistan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Rashid Meredov held a meeting with the Minister of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Adil Karimli, who arrived in Turkmenistan to take part in the Azerbaijani Culture Days. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The two sides discussed issues of cultural and humanitarian cooperation and emphasized the role of culture in strengthening ties between the peoples of the two countries. Special attention was paid to expanding cooperation between cultural institutions, museums, libraries, creative groups, and specialized educational organizations. Participants of the meeting highlighted the importance of the Azerbaijani Culture Days in Turkmenistan for the development of bilateral contacts. The program includes screenings of feature films, lectures on Azerbaijan’s literary and artistic heritage, exhibitions, and a gala concert featuring Azerbaijani artists. The events are taking place over three days in Ashgabat and Arkadag. During the talks, the sides also discussed prospects for implementing joint cultural projects, organizing exhibitions, and expanding contacts between representatives of the creative intelligentsia of both countries. In addition, the parties exchanged views on cooperation within international organizations and cultural platforms, and considered new directions for Turkmen-Azerbaijani cultural and humanitarian partnership. At the end of the meeting, mutual interest in further developing bilateral relations was reaffirmed.
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