Policy
Turkmenistan and the UAE have agreed on steps for joint railway projects
01.03.2026The Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Turkmenistan to the UAE, Bayram Bayramov, met with the Executive Director for International Relations at ‘Etihad Rail’, Tariq Al Falahi. This was reported by the IIC. The discussion focused on joint infrastructure projects aimed at strengthening transport links between Central and South Asia. The parties discussed the practical implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding between the railway authorities of the two countries, signed in October 2025 at the ‘Global Rail’ exhibition in Abu Dhabi, and agreed on steps for technical coordination. Strategic aspects of the partnership and the preparation of roadmaps for further integration of transport systems were also discussed. Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their readiness to continue regular expert consultations.
Turkmenistan prepares for exhibition and international investment forum
01.03.2026On 27 February, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan Nokerguly Atagulyev presented a report on preparations for an exhibition dedicated to the 18th anniversary of the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs and the International Forum ‘Investments in the Future of Turkmenistan’ during a government meeting. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. According to the Deputy Prime Minister, about 70 foreign companies and international organisations have confirmed their participation, and registration is ongoing. The Turkmen side will be represented at the forum by representatives of ministries, industry departments and the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs. After hearing the report, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov emphasised the importance of developing the private sector and instructed the Deputy Prime Minister to ensure a high level of organisation for the exhibition and forum.
Turkmenistan to develop a strategy for scientific and medical diplomacy for 2026–2052
01.03.2026Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers Batyr Mammedov reported on the progress of scientific and medical diplomacy in the country during a government meeting on 27 February. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. Under the leadership of President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov, experience is being introduced in the field of health care, construction of modern medical facilities, development of science and international cooperation, which contributes to improving the health of the population and strengthening the country's international authority. The Deputy Prime Minister presented a proposal to the President of Turkmenistan in this regard. After hearing the report, the Head of State instructed to prepare a National Strategy for the Development of Scientific and Medical Diplomacy in Turkmenistan for 2026-2052.
Transport and trade in focus of negotiations between Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan
28.02.2026On 27 February, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan Ahmet Gurbanov held a meeting with Foreign Affairs Minister of Azerbaijan Jeyhun Bayramov. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. During the negotiations, the parties noted the high level of bilateral relations. It was emphasised that due to the consistent efforts of the leadership of the two states, the friendly and fraternal ties between the peoples of Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan have reached a qualitatively new level. The interlocutors pointed to the significant role of regular high-level contacts in maintaining a sustainable political dialogue, strengthening mutual understanding on key issues of the regional and international agenda, as well as in mutual support for initiatives in international structures. Particular attention was paid to the development of trade and economic cooperation, which is identified as one of the priority areas of partnership. In this context, issues related to strengthening transport and logistics links, expanding multimodal corridors and simplifying cross-border procedures were discussed, which should contribute to the growth of mutual trade. The importance of cooperation in the fields of culture, science, education and sport was noted separately. The diplomats emphasised the significance of joint events, creative exchanges and educational programmes for further strengthening friendship and mutual understanding between the peoples.
Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan held inter-ministerial consultations in Baku
28.02.2026On 27 February, inter-ministerial consultations between the foreign ministries of Turkmenistan and the Republic of Azerbaijan took place in Baku. 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 A. Gurbanov and Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan S. Sharifov. The parties discussed a wide range of issues of bilateral cooperation and topical issues on the regional and international agenda. Particular attention was paid to the development of political and diplomatic dialogue, the expansion of trade and economic ties, cooperation in the transport, logistics and energy sectors, and the strengthening of cultural and humanitarian contacts. It was noted that high-level negotiations remain a key factor in strengthening the partnership. In this context, issues related to the preparation of upcoming meetings were discussed. The interlocutors emphasised the importance of interparliamentary cooperation and the role of the Turkmen-Azerbaijani Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation as a mechanism for promoting joint initiatives. The strategic potential of Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan as transit hubs between Asia and Europe for the implementation of international transport corridors was highlighted.
Mothers with many children in Turkmenistan will be given keys to new flats
28.02.2026In Turkmenistan, preparations are underway for International Women's Day in the cities of Ashgabat and Arkadag. In particular, work is underway to organise high-level ceremonies to honour mothers who have given birth to and raised eight or more children and have been awarded the honorary title of Turkmenistan ‘Ene mähri’, as well as to present them with the keys to new flats, reports TDH. This information was announced by the Chair of the Mejlis, D. Gulmanova, on 27 February during a regular meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers. In addition, it was reported that draft laws are currently being prepared covering the political, economic and cultural spheres, as well as aimed at further improving the living standards of the population. At the same time, work is continuing on amendments and additions to the current legislation. The Head of Parliament also presented information on the results of the visit of the Turkmenistan delegation to Georgia, which took place on 23–24 February this year.
Serdar Berdimuhamedov signed a Decree awarding the title of ‘Ene mähri’
28.02.2026On 27 February, at a meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov signed a Decree awarding mothers of large families the honorary title of ‘Ene mähri,’ according to TDH. The Head of State emphasised the importance of mothers' role in preserving family values and raising children. According to him, their work strengthens the country's authority, which is why mothers in Turkmenistan are always treated with respect and honour. The President noted that International Women's Day will be widely celebrated. The Head of State emphasised the high level of organisation of the celebrations, including the honouring of women with the title ‘Ene mähri’ and the presentation of keys to new apartments.
Turkmen and British universities expand academic cooperation
28.02.2026On 26 February 2025, during a working visit to the United Kingdom by a delegation from Turkmenistan led by the Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister of Foreign Affairs Rashid Meredov, several bilateral documents were signed in the field of education, science and training. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. Memoranda of Understanding were signed between the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan and the following organisations: AQA Assessment Services Ltd; Pearson National Computer Systems on skills development, certification and qualifications; Norwich Institute of Language Education; Nottingham Trent University with the Dovletmammet Azadi Turkmen National Institute of World Languages on cooperation in science and education. The documents are aimed at expanding academic cooperation, introducing modern educational standards and strengthening partnerships between educational and scientific institutions in Turkmenistan and the United Kingdom.
Turkmenistan presented its investment potential to British businesses
28.02.2026On 26 February, at Lancaster House, a Turkmen delegation led by Rashid Meredov, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, took part in a business reception with representatives of the British business community. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. British Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy delivered a welcoming speech. He emphasised the importance of strengthening economic ties with Central Asia and developing sustainable partnership projects. The Foreign Ministers of the Central Asian countries then made brief statements. In his speech, Rashid Meredov noted that the global trade and energy system is undergoing a transformation. New transport corridors and centres of economic growth are being formed. According to him, Central Asia and Turkmenistan occupy a significant place in these processes. Special attention was paid to the country's energy potential. It was emphasised that Turkmenistan has large reserves of natural gas and has proven itself to be a reliable partner over many years. In the context of European countries revising their energy strategies, Turkmenistan has expressed its readiness for substantive dialogue on new supply routes, long-term contracts and joint projects, including renewable energy. The Turkmen side also noted the country's role in the development of the Middle Corridor and the modernisation of transport infrastructure, including the port of Turkmenbashi, which expands opportunities for British business. It is reported that Turkmenistan is consistently creating a favourable investment environment with legal guarantees, international arbitration mechanisms and special economic regimes. The priority areas include energy, petrochemicals, the agro-industrial sector, technology and infrastructure. In conclusion, the readiness for long-term partnership based on mutual respect and mutual benefit was confirmed.
The Ambassador of Turkmenistan met with the Chairman of the Senate of Pakistan
28.02.2026On 25 February, Atajan Movlamov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to Pakistan, met with Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani, Chairman of the Senate of Pakistan, in Islamabad. This was reported by the IIC. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of inter-parliamentary cooperation, emphasising their interest in developing dialogue between parliaments. The focus was also on joint infrastructure and energy projects of mutual interest. Following the meeting, the participants expressed confidence that deepening bilateral cooperation would contribute to strengthening regional stability and expanding mutually beneficial ties between the peoples of Turkmenistan and Pakistan.
Turkmenistan and Germany discussed prospects for cooperation and the agenda for 2026
27.02.2026The Embassy of Turkmenistan in Belarus hosted a meeting between Nazarguly Shagulyev, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan, and Katrin aus dem Siepen, the newly appointed Chargé d'Affaires of Germany in Belarus. This was reported by the Orient news agency. The parties discussed bilateral cooperation and the international agenda, noting the positive dynamics of Turkmen-German relations in the political, economic, cultural and humanitarian spheres. Special attention was paid to the theme of 2026 in Turkmenistan, which is being held under the motto ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’. Preparations for key events, including the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan's independence, were also discussed. Ashgabat's readiness to further expand cooperation and implement mutually beneficial initiatives with European partners was emphasised.
Areas of Turkmen-British economic cooperation discussed
27.02.2026On 26 February, Turkmenistan's Foreign Affairs Minister Rashid Meredov took part in a meeting with London Stock Exchange Chief Executive Julia Anne Hoggett and UK Treasury Economic Secretary Lucy Rigby. This was reported by the press service of the Turkmenistan Foreign Affairs Ministry. During the negotiations, the Turkmen side noted the importance of London as one of the world's leading financial centres and expressed interest in expanding practical economic cooperation with British partners, including attracting long-term capital for infrastructure and energy projects. It was emphasised that Turkmenistan attaches particular importance to the development of economic cooperation with the United Kingdom. Currently, there are about 30 companies with British capital registered in the country, operating in construction, industry, trade and services. The parties also noted the positive dynamics of trade and economic relations and the role of the Turkmen-British Trade and Industry Council as an important coordination mechanism. In conclusion, the Turkmen side expressed interest in expanding cooperation in the areas of sustainable finance, banking, auditing, insurance and digital solutions.
Read also
Advertising
Read us in Zen
