Policy
Turkmenistan and the United States aim to expand business cooperation
25.02.2026The National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov held a meeting with the Executive Director of the Turkmenistan-US Business Council Eric Stewart during his visit to the United States, reports TDH. During the talks, Eric Stewart noted his positive impression of the National Leader's visit and emphasised the high level of interest among American companies in developing cooperation with Turkmenistan, which has significant economic potential. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov emphasised the dynamic development of bilateral relations and the active participation of business structures of both countries in the implementation of joint projects. The parties noted the existence of broad opportunities for further strengthening the partnership based on mutual respect and trust. Investment dialogue was identified as a priority area of cooperation. The National Leader also emphasised the importance of regular contacts between representatives of the business communities of the two countries, which are a key tool for promoting joint initiatives. Particular attention was paid to the long-standing participation of major American companies such as ‘Boeing’, ‘General Electric’, ‘John Deere’, ‘CASE’ and ‘Nicklaus Companies’ in the implementation of significant projects in Turkmenistan. Eric Stewart confirmed the Business Council's readiness to support the expansion and strengthening of contacts between economic entities of both countries. Following the meeting, the parties expressed confidence in the further development of mutually beneficial and long-term cooperation between Turkmenistan and the United States.
Turkmenistan and the SCO aim to expand cooperation
25.02.2026Parahat Durdyev, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to China, held a meeting with Nurlan Yermekbayev, Secretary General of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. This was reported by IIC. The parties discussed opportunities for expanding cooperation in trade, transport, logistics and the humanitarian sphere. The Ambassador highlighted the wide range of activities of the SCO and the high level of interaction with Turkmenistan. The Diplomat also spoke about the events planned for 2026 and preparations for the 35th anniversary of the country's independence. In turn, the SCO Secretary General expressed his gratitude for the invitation to the forum dedicated to the International Year of Peace and Trust, International Day of Neutrality and the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's Permanent Neutrality, and warmly recalled his meeting with the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov.
A meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the CIS will be held in Ashgabat
25.02.2026A meeting of the CIS Council of Heads of Government will be held on 22 May in Ashgabat. This was announced by First Deputy Secretary General of the CIS Igor Petrishenko at a meeting of permanent representatives in Minsk. This was reported by IIC Turkmenistan. There are 11 items on the agenda, the key ones of which concern economic cooperation, transport corridors, digitalisation and congress and exhibition activities. There are also plans to consider a decision on granting Minsk the status of CIS Youth Capital in 2027. At the same time, the CIS is completing the three-year plan to update the regulatory framework and is developing new mechanisms for coordination between national agencies. Particular attention is being paid to security issues and the implementation of initiatives by Heads of State. In addition, the CIS will send an observer mission to Kazakhstan to monitor the referendum on constitutional changes scheduled for 15 March. The mission headquarters will begin work in the near future.
Turkmenistan and Zimbabwe held political consultations in Ashgabat
24.02.2026On 23 February, political consultations between the foreign ministries of Turkmenistan and the Republic of Zimbabwe took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The delegations were led by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Serdar Muhammetdurdyev and Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs and International Trade of the Republic of Zimbabwe Albert Ranganai Chimbindi. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of bilateral relations. Particular attention was paid to intensifying political and diplomatic dialogue. Interest in developing contacts at the highest and high levels, regular inter-ministerial consultations and strengthening inter-parliamentary ties was confirmed. They exchanged views on topical issues on the regional and international agenda. They confirmed their readiness for further cooperation within international structures, including the United Nations, and for mutual support for initiatives in multilateral forums. Opportunities for expanding trade and economic partnership were considered. The potential for cooperation in energy, agriculture, textiles and other industries was noted. The advisability of intensifying contacts between business circles, holding joint business forums and participating in exhibitions and fairs was emphasised. In the cultural and humanitarian sphere, the parties expressed interest in developing cooperation in the fields of education, sports and tourism, as well as in expanding direct contacts between relevant institutions. Following the meeting, a Protocol on Political Consultations between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade of the Republic of Zimbabwe was signed.
Turkmenistan has set its priorities for human rights work for 2026
24.02.2026On 23 February, under the chairmanship of Rashid Meredov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, a regular meeting of the Interdepartmental Commission on Ensuring the Implementation of Turkmenistan’s International Obligations in the Field of Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law was held. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The meeting was attended by heads and representatives of relevant ministries and departments, the Ombudsman of Turkmenistan, representatives of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan, the Institute of State, Law and Democracy of Turkmenistan, the National Red Crescent Society of Turkmenistan and public organisations. The participants summarised the Commission's work for 2025 and set priorities for 2026. They noted the strengthening of Turkmenistan's cooperation with the United Nations and its structures, the development of dialogue with the European Union, the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe, the International Labour Organisation and the International Committee of the Red Cross. The implementation of the Roadmap for cooperation with the International Labour Organisation was considered separately. It was decided to extend its validity until the end of 2026. The completion of the National Action Plan on Human Rights and the National Action Plan on Gender Equality for 2021-2025 was also reported. Drafts of new plans for 2026–2030 have been prepared, taking into account the recommendations of UN treaty bodies, the fourth cycle of the Universal Periodic Review and the Sustainable Development Goals. During the meeting, issues related to improving the work of the Commission, enhancing the quality of national reports and further developing cooperation with international partners were discussed.
Turkmenistan outlined its foreign policy priorities at an international conference
23.02.2026The Institute of International Relations of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan hosted an international conference dedicated to the professional holiday of diplomats. The forum brought together representatives of foreign ministries and experts to discuss the key vectors of the country's diplomacy. This was reported by the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. One of the central speeches was delivered by Rashid Meredov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan. He outlined the priorities of modern Turkmen diplomacy and emphasised the importance of permanent neutrality as the basis for foreign policy. The Head of the Foreign Affairs Ministry stressed that in the context of global change, Turkmenistan is forming its positions based on the historical experience, culture and ethical norms of its people. He highlighted new challenges and opportunities, including issues of global governance and international alliances, and noted that the country's foreign policy takes these realities into account. The forum paid particular attention to respect for the national characteristics of states, non-interference in internal affairs and the prevention of the imposition of external development models. In this context, R. Meredov emphasised the role of the United Nations, expressing support for the initiatives of the UN Secretary-General – the ‘Pact for the Future’ and ‘UN-80’. ‘The UN must remain the basis for equal dialogue between peoples and states,’ the Minister said. He also noted the importance of international law as a key condition for global security and announced that Turkmenistan had proposed declaring 2028 the Year of International Law. The conference confirmed that Turkmenistan's foreign policy combines loyalty to traditions and a readiness for renewal. The country's principled position, aimed at humanising international relations, remains an important factor for stability in the world.
Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov held a meeting on Ahal-Teke horses in Germany
23.02.2026The National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, stopped in Germany on his way from the United States to Turkmenistan and held a working meeting on the participation of Ahal-Teke horses in international competitions, according to TDH. The event was held in accordance with a Resolution signed by President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov on 13 February 2026 at an expanded meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers, in connection with the declaration of the current year as the Year of ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’. Participants discussed the organisation of competitions in Turkmenistan and abroad. Turkmenistan's Ambassador to Germany, B. Rejepov, reported on the state of Turkmen-German relations and the promotion of the Ahal-Teke breed in Europe. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov stressed the need for Turkmen horses to perform well at the FEI World Equestrian Championships 2026 in Aachen (11–23 August), the beauty contest in the Netherlands in September, and events in France and the United Kingdom. The National Leader of the Turkmen people noted that the high level of competition will strengthen the international authority of Turkmenistan, which will celebrate its 35th anniversary of independence in 2026, and increase the popularity of the Ahal-Teke breed. Following the meeting, specific instructions were given to the participants. After the negotiations, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov flew to Ashgabat. The airliner of the Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty landed at the capital's International Airport.
The TAPI project remains a priority in Turkmenistan's energy strategy
23.02.2026During his visit to the United States, the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, gave an interview to ‘Al Arabiya’ TV presenter Rizwan Khan. The main topic of the conversation was Turkmenistan's energy strategy and the promotion of major cross-border projects. It was reported by the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. As noted by the Hero Arkadag, Turkmenistan ranks fourth in the world in terms of proven natural gas reserves, which, according to him, imposes a special responsibility on the country in the current geo-economic conditions. He stressed that the priority is to diversify energy flows, ensure their balance, security and reliability of supply. Cooperation in the energy sector, according to him, is being built at the political and international legal levels, taking into account the requirements of global development and the principle of mutual benefit. The interview paid special attention to the construction of the ‘Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India’ (TAPI) gas pipeline. According to the National Leader of the Turkmen people, the project remains one of the country's largest international energy initiatives. It is reported that the construction of the first stage of TAPI, ‘Arkadagyň ak ýoly’, is continuing in Afghanistan. The project enjoys international support, including from the United States, and is seen as an important factor in meeting the growing demand for energy in South Asian countries, as well as expanding access to markets in the Asia-Pacific region, the Near and Middle East. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov also noted TAPI's potential in strengthening political stability and economic development. He emphasised that the project is open to interested companies, expressing hope for active interest from American partners.
The President of Turkmenistan congratulated the Sultan of Brunei on Independence Day
23.02.2026President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov sent congratulations to Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei Darussalam on the occasion of the country's Independence Day. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. The Head of State wished the Sultan good health, happiness and prosperity, and the people of Brunei Darussalam peace, progress and prosperity.
Turkmenistan and the OSCE discussed regional cooperation at the parliamentary level
22.02.2026The Permanent Representative of Turkmenistan to the OSCE, Hemra Amannazarov, met with the Special Representative of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly for Central Asia, Angelos Syrigos, at the OSCE PA Winter Meeting in Vienna. This was reported by the press service of the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Austria. The parties discussed priority areas of cooperation, focusing on parliamentary dialogue, confidence-building and the development of regional ties in Central Asia. H. Amannazarov emphasised Turkmenistan's support for constructive interaction and the importance of a consensus-based approach. During the discussion, practical steps for cooperation were considered: exchange of views on regional issues, development of contacts between parliamentarians of Central Asian countries and the role of parliamentary diplomacy in ensuring stability and sustainable development. Particular attention was paid to Turkmenistan's initiative to hold regional parliamentary meetings in Ashgabat. The Ambassador expressed his gratitude for the OSCE PA's support in organising the third conference, noting its importance for dialogue and the exchange of experience. The meeting reaffirmed the commitment to deepening cooperation, strengthening regional parliamentary networks and seeking solutions through dialogue.
Projects involving the United States in Turkmenistan are approaching $45 billion
22.02.2026The volume of joint economic projects between Turkmenistan and the United States is approaching $45 billion. This was announced by the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov in an interview with ‘Al Arabiya’ TV channel, according to the state news agency TDH. Hero Arkadag noted that hundreds of projects have already been implemented or are in the process of being implemented, and cooperation is based on mutual benefit and equality. Major American companies such as ‘John Deere’, ‘General Electric’, ‘Case’, ‘Boeing’, ‘Coca-Cola’, ‘Sikorsky’ and ‘Caterpillar’ are actively working in the Turkmen market in the fields of energy, transport, agriculture, electric power, software and the food industry. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov emphasised the importance of the Turkmen-American Business Council, established in 2008, which has become an effective instrument of bilateral partnership and whose recommendations are taken into account by government agencies in both countries. The Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty also outlined plans to expand cooperation, including through economic diversification, the introduction of high-tech industries and the implementation of major infrastructure projects, as well as attracting American investment and technology to develop Turkmenistan's innovative and knowledge-intensive economy.
Turkmenistan's Permanent Representative officially commenced work at the OIC
22.02.2026On 16 February, an official ceremony for the presentation of credentials took place at the headquarters of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation in Jeddah. The Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Saudi Arabia, Muhammetgeldi Ayazov, officially took office as the country's Permanent Representative to this international organisation, according to the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. OIC Secretary General Hissein Brahim Taha, accepting the credentials, emphasised the special role of Turkmenistan in the Islamic world. According to him, the country's policy of permanent neutrality serves as an effective tool for strengthening peace and trust both in the region and within the Organisation. As noted by the Permanent Representative, Turkmenistan intends to expand its contribution to the activities of the OIC, primarily in the areas of culture, education and economic mutual assistance. The Organisation highly appreciated Turkmenistan's experience in the field of preventive diplomacy, which is particularly relevant in the current international situation. The Secretary General expressed his confidence that the Permanent Representative's activities would give additional impetus to the development of dialogue between Turkmenistan and the OIC, which has remained a reliable and active member of the Islamic community for many years.
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