Policy
Turkmenistan has set out the agenda for the Central Asian and Azerbaijan summit in Awaza
03.08.2026At an informal consultative meeting of the leaders of the Central Asian countries and Azerbaijan in Cholpon-Ata, the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, outlined the main points of the agenda for the forthcoming summit, which is to be held on 8 October 2026 in the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone. This was reported by the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. According to the Head of State, Ashgabat has already sent a draft agenda to its partners. The document includes five main areas of cooperation. The first concerns regional and international security, political and diplomatic cooperation, trade and the economy, energy and transport. The second area relates to the environment. Discussions are planned on environmental protection, adaptation to climate change, the rational use of the waters of the Amu Darya and Syr Darya rivers, and the restoration of the Aral Sea. A separate section will be devoted to humanitarian cooperation. This will cover cultural, educational and scientific ties, as well as youth and student exchanges. Serdar Berdimuhamedov noted the relevance of the proposed topics for all participating states. The summit at ‘Awaza’ is also set to be accompanied by international forums and cultural events.
‘Awaza’ will host a summit of leaders from Central Asia and Azerbaijan
03.08.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, took part in an informal consultative meeting of the leaders of the Central Asian countries and Azerbaijan, which took place in Cholpon-Ata (Kyrgyz Republic). This was reported by the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. During the meeting, the Head of State announced that the next summit in this format would take place on 8 October 2026 in the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone. Serdar Berdimuhamedov stated that Turkmenistan was ready to ensure the necessary organisational standards for the upcoming event. Appropriate measures are already being taken in the country to prepare for it. The summit in Awaza will aim to further strengthen cooperation between the countries of Central Asia and Azerbaijan, develop political dialogue and expand economic ties.
Rashid Meredov presented a report on the work of the MFA of Turkmenistan for January–July
03.08.2026At a meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan on 1 August, the Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Rashid Meredov, presented a report on the activities of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for January–July 2026. This was reported by TDH. Over the course of seven months, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, undertook visits to the United States, China, Austria, the Republic of Tatarstan in the Russian Federation, the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland, as well as Iran. The President of Turkmenistan paid visits to Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Georgia and Kyrgyzstan. As part of Turkmenistan’s chairmanship of the CIS in 2026, meetings of the Commonwealth’s relevant bodies were held in the country, including a meeting of the heads of government of the CIS states on 22 May in Ashgabat. During the reporting period, 428 foreign delegations arrived in Turkmenistan, whilst 761 delegations were sent abroad. A total of 287 meetings at various levels were held via video conferencing, and 1,376 official negotiations and meetings involving foreign states and international organisations were organised. The international legal framework was expanded with the addition of 137 documents. Work also continued on holding political consultations with the foreign ministries of other countries. The Minister for Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan held talks with the heads of the UN, the FAO, the EBRD, the International Maritime Organisation and the Organisation for the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty. Between January and July 2026, Turkmenistan accepted the credentials of new Ambassadors Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary from a number of states, as well as those of the UN Resident Coordinator in the country. Diplomatic representatives of Turkmenistan also took up their duties following the presentation of their credentials in foreign states and international organisations. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov emphasised the importance of further developing Turkmenistan’s cooperation with countries around the world and international organisations. The Minister for Foreign Affairs has been instructed to continue work on expanding external relations and to ensure preparations for upcoming international events.
Turkmenistan will draw up a plan to implement the UN resolution on international law
03.08.2026At a meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan on 1 August, the Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Rashid Meredov, reported on the adoption by the UN General Assembly of the Resolution ‘International Year of Law, 2028’, proposed by Turkmenistan. This was reported by the news agency TDH. The resolution was adopted unanimously on 24 July during the 106th plenary meeting of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly. The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, highlighted the importance of the adopted document and congratulated those present at the meeting on this occasion. During the meeting, Rashid Meredov presented proposals for implementing the initiative. In particular, it is proposed to draw up a National Action Plan for 2026–2028 and to establish an Interdepartmental Working Commission to coordinate the preparation of events. The plan provides for the organisation of political, diplomatic, scientific, educational, cultural and informational events in Turkmenistan and abroad. It is also proposed to draw up a National Concept on ‘International Law and the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan’ for distribution amongst UN member states. Between 2026 and 2028, it is planned to hold regional and international forums on issues of international law, with the participation of national and foreign experts. Educational programmes, the development of teaching materials and digital resources, as well as competitions for young people and awareness-raising events, are also envisaged. It is proposed to establish the Ashgabat International Platform on ‘International Law’ at the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. Furthermore, a high-level World Forum on International Law is planned to be held in Ashgabat in 2028 under the auspices of the UN. The Head of State approved the proposals put forward and instructed the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs to carry out the necessary work.
The President of Turkmenistan has received a congratulatory message from Hero Arkadag
02.08.2026The National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, congratulated President Serdar Berdimuhamedov on the unanimous adoption by the UN General Assembly of the Resolution ‘International Year of Law, 2028’. This was reported by the TDH news agency. The message of congratulations noted that the adoption of the document served as confirmation of international support for Turkmenistan’s initiatives to strengthen peace, security and the role of international law. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov emphasised that Turkmenistan regards cooperation with the UN as one of the priorities of its foreign policy. Over the years of its membership in the Organisation, the country has sponsored more than 30 resolutions aimed at developing international cooperation and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. It was also noted that the initiative to declare 2028 the Year of International Law received the support of 78 states, which co-sponsored the resolution. The message of congratulations states that Turkmenistan will continue its work to strengthen the international legal system and implement measures in preparation for the Year of International Law. Hero Arkadag wished President Serdar Berdimuhamedov every success in his efforts to strengthen peace and trust and international cooperation.
Serdar Berdimuhamedov has sent his condolences to the Prime Minister of Japan
02.08.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, has sent his condolences to the Prime Minister of Japan, Sanae Takaichi, following the earthquake in Kumamoto Prefecture, which resulted in loss of life and injuries. This was reported by the online news site AsmanNews. On behalf of the people and Government of Turkmenistan, and on his own behalf, the Head of State expressed his support for the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives and wished those affected a speedy recovery.
Turkmenistan has reaffirmed its commitment to developing cooperation with the Republic of Korea
02.08.2026On 31 July in Astana, Ahmet Gurbanov, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan, took part in the third meeting of senior officials of the ‘Central Asia–Republic of Korea’ Cooperation Forum. This was reported by the press office of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The participants discussed preparations for the forthcoming ‘Central Asia–Republic of Korea’ Summit, including the draft final document. In his address, Ahmet Gurbanov reaffirmed Turkmenistan’s commitment to developing multilateral cooperation within the framework of the Forum and emphasised the importance of strengthening the partnership between the states of Central Asia and the Republic of Korea. It was noted that the ‘Central Asia–Republic of Korea’ Summit and Business Summit would contribute to the expansion of business contacts, the implementation of joint projects and the development of cooperation in industry, energy, transport and logistics, digital technologies, agriculture and other sectors. On the same day, Ahmet Gurbanov held a meeting with Chung Eui-hae, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of the Republic of Korea. The parties reaffirmed their interest in the further development of the Turkmen-Korean partnership and discussed preparations for the upcoming ‘Central Asia – Republic of Korea’ Summit, noting the important role of high-level contacts in the development of bilateral relations.
The Ambassador of Turkmenistan met with the Prime Minister of Thailand
01.08.2026During his visit to Bangkok, M. Mashalov, Turkmenistan’s Ambassador to Malaysia, attended a state reception to mark the birthday of King Maha Vajiralongkorn of Thailand. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. The event took place at the Government House of the Kingdom. As part of the programme, the diplomat held a meeting with the Prime Minister of Thailand, Anutin Charnvirakul, and extended an invitation to pay an official visit to Turkmenistan at a time convenient to both sides. The Ambassador also conveyed congratulations and best wishes on behalf of the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, and the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. The parties discussed the state of bilateral relations and the prospects for developing cooperation. The Prime Minister of Thailand expressed his gratitude for the congratulations and the invitation, noting his readiness to further strengthen the partnership.
The Head of Turkmenistan has sent a message of congratulations to the President of Switzerland
01.08.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, has sent his congratulations to the President of the Swiss Confederation, Guy Parmelin, on Swiss National Day. This was reported by the TDH news agency. In his message, the Head of State wished Guy Parmelin good health, happiness and well-being, and the people of Switzerland peace, continued progress and prosperity.
Serdar Berdimuhamedov presented the summit agenda at ‘Awaza’
01.08.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, addressed the informal Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia and the Republic of Azerbaijan, outlining the main areas of preparation for the summit, which is to be held on 8 October 2026 in the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone. This was reported by the online news site AsmanNews. The Head of State thanked the President of the Kyrgyz Republic, Sadyr Zhaparov, for organising the meeting and conveyed greetings to the participants from the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. The President of Turkmenistan also welcomed the participation of Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, noting that the decision for Azerbaijan to join the format had been taken at a consultative meeting in Tashkent in 2025. Serdar Berdimuhamedov reported that Turkmenistan had sent the participating states a draft agenda for the forthcoming summit in Awaza. The document covers five key areas: issues of peace, security and political and diplomatic cooperation; the development of trade and economic cooperation, energy, and transport and logistics corridors; joint measures in the fields of the environment, climate change and the restoration of the Aral Sea; and the expansion of cultural, educational, scientific and youth exchanges. The President of Turkmenistan noted that, during the run-up to and throughout the summit in Awaza, international forums and cultural events would also take place. Concluding his address, he expressed his gratitude to the Heads of State for their constructive approach to cooperation.
Turkmenistan took part in an informal consultative meeting in Kyrgyzstan
01.08.2026On 31 July, the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, paid a working visit to the Kyrgyz Republic, where he took part in an informal consultative meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia and the Republic of Azerbaijan. This was reported by the news agency TDH. The summit took place at the Congress Centre of the State Residence of the President of the Kyrgyz Republic in the city of Cholpon-Ata. The President of Turkmenistan was welcomed by the President of the Kyrgyz Republic, Sadyr Zhaparov. Opening the meeting, Sadyr Zhaparov thanked the participants for their visit and noted that Turkmenistan will hold the chairmanship of the ‘Central Asia–Azerbaijan’ format in 2026. The President of the Kyrgyz Republic also expressed his gratitude to President Serdar Berdimuhamedov for the invitation to take part in the forthcoming summit at the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone. The President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, thanked Turkmenistan for acceding to the Treaty on Friendship, Good-Neighbourliness and Cooperation for the Development of Central Asia in the 21st Century. In his address, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov thanked the Kyrgyz side for their hospitality and the high standard of organisation of the meeting, and also conveyed greetings to the participants from the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. The Head of State noted that on 8 October 2026, a Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia and the Republic of Azerbaijan will take place in the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone. According to him, Turkmenistan has already sent the participating states a draft agenda covering issues of regional security, political and diplomatic cooperation, trade and economic cooperation, energy, transport, the environment, water resources, the restoration of the Aral Sea, as well as the development of cultural, educational and scientific ties. The President of Turkmenistan emphasised that, as part of the preparations for the summit in Awaza, a number of international forums and cultural events are also planned. Following the meeting, the Heads of State signed the Cholpon-Ata Declaration, reaffirming their commitment to further strengthening cooperation, relations of friendship, good neighbourliness, mutual respect and trust. Following the conclusion of the summit, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, together with the other heads of state, took part in the opening ceremony of the ‘Baku’ hotel in the village of Kara-Oy in the Issyk-Kul region and toured the new hotel complex. Upon completion of the working visit programme, the President of Turkmenistan returned to Ashgabat.
Turkmenistan will host the first ‘Central Asia–Azerbaijan’ summit
01.08.2026The first ‘Central Asia–Azerbaijan’ summit will take place on 8 October in Turkmenistan. This was announced by the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, at an informal meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia and the Republic of Azerbaijan in the Kyrgyz Republic, according to IIC of Turkmenistan. The Head of Turkmenistan stated that the draft agenda for the summit had been prepared and sent to all participants in this new cooperation format. The document covers issues of regional and international security, the development of political and diplomatic cooperation, and collaboration in the energy, transport and logistics sectors. The parties also plan to discuss joint environmental protection activities, adaptation to climate change, the rational use of water resources, measures to save the Aral Sea, as well as the development of cultural, humanitarian, educational and youth exchanges.
Read also
Advertising
Read us in Zen
