Policy
Chinese Ambassador: Relations with Turkmenistan have reached the level of a strategic partnership
30.03.2026Ji Shumin, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to Turkmenistan, emphasised that Chinese-Turkmen relations have reached the level of a comprehensive strategic partnership. He noted that the visit to Beijing by the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, had opened a new chapter in the development of bilateral cooperation. This was reported by the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The Ambassador recalled that from 17 to 19 March, at the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov paid a friendly visit to China. This was the first visit by a foreign leader following the conclusion of the annual sessions of the National People’s Congress and the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, key events in the socio-political life of the PRC. ‘The visit of the National Leader of the Turkmen people to Beijing was an important step which, by linking the past and the future, opened a new chapter in bilateral relations. President Xi Jinping held a cordial meeting with Hero Arkadag. The sides discussed in detail the strengthening of cooperation in various fields, reached broad consensus and gave a powerful impetus to joint work,’ emphasised Ji Shumin. The Ambassador also spoke highly of the current level of relations between the two countries, noting that the dynamic development of Chinese-Turkmen relations serves as a model of political cooperation. ‘Political mutual trust between China and Turkmenistan is steadily strengthening. The friendly ties between our peoples have deep historical roots. Our countries are good friends, brothers and partners who support one another. Over the 34 years of diplomatic relations, Chinese-Turkmen ties have maintained steady, sound and consistent development, reaching a new level of comprehensive strategic partnership,’ noted Ji Shumin.
Judges of Turkmenistan discussed the development of the judicial system and legal reform
29.03.2026On March 28, the VIII Conference of Judges of Turkmenistan was held at the “Adalat” Palace, with participation from representatives of the Supreme Court, the Arbitration Court, as well as judges from provincial, city, and district courts. The main topic of discussion was the challenges facing the country’s judicial system, AsmanNews reports. Conference participants reviewed the implementation of the Action Plan for the Development Program of the Judicial System for 2022–2028. In particular, discussions focused on improving judicial proceedings, ensuring transparency in the administration of justice, and aligning court decisions with national legislation and international standards. The event also summarized the results of the “Exemplary Court” competition of the International Year of Peace and Trust, examined the “Exemplary Court” review among courts across the country, and considered the “Best Judge” award for first-instance judges. Other topics included enhancing judicial procedures, amending legal acts, preparing methodological guides, and improving the qualifications of judges and court staff. Special attention was given to implementing the directives of the country’s President, adopting advanced practices and modern methodologies, and organizing specialized training courses. Among the discussed subjects were the implementation of the 2026 Work Plan and the new edition of the Code of Judicial Ethics. Following the conference, corresponding decisions were adopted.
The President of Turkmenistan received congratulations on Nowruz and Eid al-Fitr
29.03.2026President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov received congratulations from foreign leaders, reports TDH. President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko congratulated the Turkmen leader on the National Spring Holiday – International Nowruz Day. The letter noted that the holiday symbolizes warmth, joy, and hope for the future. Lukashenko emphasized Belarus’s readiness to develop friendly and partnership relations with Turkmenistan and expressed confidence that bilateral dialogue would serve the interests of citizens and stability in Eurasia. King Mohammed VI of Morocco congratulated the President of Turkmenistan on Eid al-Fitr, wishing him good health and happiness.
Hero-Arkadag congratulated the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Foundation on its fifth anniversary
29.03.2026National Leader of the Turkmen People, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov delivered remarks on March 28 on the occasion of the 5th anniversary of the establishment of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship. This was reported by AsmanNews. In his address, he congratulated the President of Turkmenistan, the Foundation’s members, and the entire nation on the significant date, noting that the principles of Turkmen humanism are rooted in deep antiquity and continue today under the leadership of the head of state. The National Leader of the Turkmen people emphasized that ensuring a happy life and comprehensive development for children remains a priority in the current era of national revival, as does the creation of conditions for their physical, intellectual, and spiritual growth. Hero-Arkadag noted that since the Foundation’s establishment, thousands of children have received the necessary support and medical assistance, enabling them to actively engage in education, creativity, and sports. He also stressed the importance of intergenerational ties and the role of the Council of Elders in fostering respect for traditions and promoting mentorship. In conclusion, Hero-Arkadag wished the younger generation good health, a quality education, and all-round development, and expressed his hope that the Foundation’s members would achieve new success in their noble work for the benefit of children and in strengthening the prestige of the Motherland.
Results of the Charitable Foundation’s activities discussed in Arkadag City
29.03.2026On March 28, the National Leader of the Turkmen People and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, paid a working visit to the city of Arkadag, where he chaired a meeting of the Board of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship, dedicated to the fifth anniversary of its establishment. This was reported by TDH. In the morning, Hero-Arkadag was warmly welcomed at the headquarters of the Charitable Foundation, after which the Board meeting began with the participation of its members, the chairman of the State Committee for the Construction of Arkadag City under the President of Turkmenistan, and the city’s hyakim (mayor). During the meeting, reports were presented on the Foundation’s activities aimed at providing social support to children in need of guardianship, safeguarding their health, and creating conditions for their comprehensive development. O. Atabayeva, Vice President of the Foundation for Medical Activities, congratulated Hero-Arkadag and President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov on the Foundation’s anniversary. She noted that young citizens who had received treatment and regained their health thanks to the Foundation are actively engaged in their studies, creative pursuits, and the acquisition of new skills. Since the Foundation’s establishment, 758 surgeries have been performed, while 2,467 children have received comprehensive treatment at the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Children’s Health and Rehabilitation Center using innovative technologies and natural remedies of local origin. In addition, the Foundation organized visits to the Principality of Monaco, the Republic of Uzbekistan, the Republic of Azerbaijan, the People’s Republic of China, the Russian Federation, and the State of Qatar, which resulted in the adoption of important decisions. In 2025, memoranda of understanding were signed with the UNICEF Office in Turkmenistan, the Soong Ching Ling Foundation of China, and the Heydar Aliyev Foundation. The National Leader of the Turkmen People emphasized the importance of expanding international cooperation and intensifying the exchange of experience. He also focused attention on awarding winners of international competitions, modernizing the Bazar Amanov State Children’s Library, and strengthening the material and technical base of the “Jahan” Creative Center. R. Bazarov, Vice President of the Foundation, noted in his report the measures being taken to ensure the right of children in need of guardianship to full participation in society, including medical and material support. In particular, pediatric hospital departments were supplied with hemodialysis machines manufactured by B. Braun (Germany), which have significantly improved children’s recovery outcomes. R. Bazarov also reported on the construction of a mosque in the city of Fuzuli (Republic of Azerbaijan) as an example of the humanitarian principles of the people, while the Council of Elders under the Foundation is engaged in introducing the younger generation to national spiritual values. D. Orazov, Chairman of the State Committee for the Construction of Arkadag City, informed participants about the progress of the second phase of the city’s construction, including facilities of the medical cluster. Products of “Arkadag Medisina Klasteri Menejment”, including baby food, have received international recognition, winning the “Product of the Year” gold medal and a diploma at a trade exhibition in Moscow in September last year. The National Leader stressed the need to adhere to the implementation schedule for these projects. G. Mammedova, the city’s hyakim, highlighted the significance of the Foundation as a stronghold of humanism and spoke about preparations for festive celebrations at “Arkadag Binasy” Square, which will be attended by children, their parents, heads of ministries and agencies, representatives of diplomatic missions, and young people. Hero-Arkadag underscored the importance of coordinated work among all involved structures and the active participation of different generations. During the meeting, specific instructions were given to Board members and Foundation staff: to monitor the implementation of assigned tasks, introduce innovative technologies, ensure the effective use of financial resources, strengthen the legislative framework, and actively promote the Foundation’s activities at both the national and international levels. Concluding the event, Hero-Arkadag once again congratulated all participants on the fifth anniversary of the Foundation, emphasizing the importance of its activities for the future of Turkmenistan’s children, and then departed the venue.
Turkmenistan and Japan discussed digital transformation and green technologies
28.03.2026The Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Japan, A. Bayramov, held a meeting with Taro Kono, Director-General of the International Bureau of the Liberal Democratic Party of Japan, the IIC reports. The parties discussed the development of bilateral relations and the potential establishment of direct contacts between the Democratic Party of Turkmenistan and the Liberal Democratic Party of Japan. Special attention was given to cooperation in artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and green technologies. They also addressed issues of youth diplomacy, participation in international leadership programs, scientific and innovative collaboration, and trade and economic policy. The Ambassador expressed his gratitude for the contribution to the development of Turkmen-Japanese relations. Taro Kono has previously held the positions of Minister of Digital Transformation, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Minister of Defense of Japan.
A meeting of the working group with the USA was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan
28.03.2026On March 27, a meeting of the Working Group on Trade and Economic Cooperation with the United States of America was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, the press service of the Turkmen MFA reports. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of bilateral cooperation. The importance of regular dialogue and the effectiveness of existing mechanisms, including the work of the Turkmen-American Business Council, was noted. Special attention was given to expanding investments and implementing joint projects involving American companies. It was emphasized that positive trends in cooperation were observed last year. Meeting participants also highlighted the significant potential of the bilateral economic agenda and stressed the need to coordinate efforts for the growth and diversification of mutual trade.
Chinese Ambassador: Gas Cooperation with Turkmenistan Enters a New Stage
28.03.2026On March 27, a briefing was held in Ashgabat by the Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to Turkmenistan, Ji Shuming. The main topic was the results and prospects of cooperation in the oil and gas sector, reports the publication “Turkmenistan: Golden Age”. In 2026, the gas partnership between the two countries marks its 20th anniversary. According to the diplomat, energy remains a key area of collaboration. As of March 1, 2026, Turkmen gas exports to China reached 460 billion cubic meters. China remains Turkmenistan’s largest trading partner and primary gas importer for 14 consecutive years. Ji Shuming highlighted the mutual benefits of the cooperation: energy security for China and stable revenues and jobs for Turkmenistan. The diplomat also addressed the development of the Galkynysh field. The winner of the tender was the China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC). The contract between Turkmengaz and CNPC was approved by Turkmenistan’s President Serdar Berdimuhamedov. The project’s implementation will increase gas production, expand exports, and create new jobs. According to the Chinese side, energy cooperation is expected to continue developing.
The cooperation between Turkmenistan and UNFPA will continue in the new program cycle
28.03.2026On March 27, a meeting took place between the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Myahri Bashimova, and the Regional Director of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) for Eastern Europe and Central Asia, Florence Bauer, along with the UNFPA Country Director in Turkmenistan, Chinwe Ogbonna. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The parties noted the steady cooperation between Turkmenistan and UNFPA, with particular focus on the implementation of the Country Programme for 2026–2030. Projects in the fields of reproductive and maternal health, gender equality, and the promotion of healthy social norms among youth were discussed. The outcomes of the National Action Plan on Gender Equality for 2021–2025 were reviewed, along with preparations for the new cycle covering 2026–2030. At the conclusion of the meeting, both sides confirmed their readiness to continue joint work under the new Country Programme.
Turkmenistan and the CIS have agreed on the preparation of the meeting of the Council of Heads of Governments
28.03.2026On March 27, a Protocol on coordinating the preparation of the meeting of the CIS Council of Heads of Governments was signed at the building of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The meeting was attended by Turkmenistan’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs S. Mukhammetdurdiyev and CIS Deputy Secretary General D. Trefilov, the press service of the Turkmen MFA reports. The document establishes the procedure for coordinating organizational and substantive matters. The meeting of the CIS Council of Heads of Governments is scheduled for May 22, 2026, in Ashgabat.
The President of Turkmenistan approved a series of decrees
28.03.2026The President of Turkmenistan has signed a decree “On Rice Production in 2026 in Turkmenistan.” The document is aimed at increasing agricultural output and boosting crop yields, reports AsmanNews. The Ministry of Agriculture, the State Association “Türkmengallaönümleri,” as well as the khyakimliks of the Dashoguz and Lebap provinces have been tasked with ensuring rice production in compliance with agronomic requirements and a scientific approach to crop rotation. A separate decree approved the Concept for the Development of the Intellectual Property System in Turkmenistan for 2026–2052 and an Action Plan for 2026–2030. The document provides for the improvement of the legal framework, the implementation of international standards, and the strengthening of intellectual property rights protection. The Ministry of Finance and Economy, along with relevant agencies, has been tasked with ensuring its implementation.
Serdar Berdimuhamedov received congratulations from foreign leaders
28.03.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, received congratulatory messages on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr from the leaders of Jordan and Algeria, according to the state news agency TDH. King Abdullah II bin Al Hussein of Jordan sent a congratulatory message on behalf of the people and government of his country. He wished the Turkmen people continued progress and prosperity. The President of the People's Democratic Republic of Algeria, Abdelmadjid Tebboune, also congratulated the head of Turkmenistan on the holiday. In his message, he expressed wishes for health and well-being to the President, as well as peace and development for the Turkmen people. The Algerian leader highlighted the significance of Eid al-Fitr and expressed hope that the holy month would be marked by good deeds.
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