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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.
Turkmenistan and the EU discuss cooperation in the field of ecology and energy
28.02.2026Sapar Palvanov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to Belgium, met with Jan Dusik, Deputy Director-General of the European Commission's Directorate-General for Climate Action. This was reported by the IIC. During the meeting, issues of cooperation in the field of ecology and energy were discussed. The parties noted that cooperation with the EU remains a priority of Turkmenistan's foreign policy for 2026, and that the climate agenda serves as the basis for bilateral dialogue. The Turkmen side confirmed its commitment to international obligations, including the Global Methane Pledge and the Paris Agreement, and expressed its readiness to develop cooperation in reducing methane emissions, adapting to climate change and introducing environmental technologies. Particular attention was paid to the potential of solar energy, the development of electricity interconnections and the implementation of the ‘EU for a Green Turkmenistan’ programme. The parties agreed that joint projects create opportunities for sustainable and mutually beneficial cooperation in the long term.
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.
Turkmen boxers to hold training camp in Kazakhstan
28.02.2026The Turkmenistan youth boxing team (U19) has begun intensive preparations for the international season. From 8 to 15 March, the team will hold training camps in Almaty at the ‘Zhanasar’ centre, where they will train jointly with their peers from the Kazakhstan national team, according to the IIC of Turkmenistan. This stage of preparation is aimed at successful performance at the World Cup in Bangkok. During the training camp, special attention will be paid to the exchange of experience between coaches. The coaches of the Turkmen national team, together with their Kazakh colleagues, will discuss modern training methods, which will contribute to the growth of the coaching staff's professionalism and improve the technical and tactical level of young boxers. The World Cup in Thailand is a qualifying tournament for the Summer Youth Olympic Games, which will take place in November 2026 in Dakar (Senegal). Training at one of the world's leading boxing centres is aimed at ensuring that Turkmen athletes are as ready as possible to compete for Olympic tickets.
The Turkmen equestrian group ‘Galkynysh’ will take part in the ‘Oriental Circus’ show in Baku
27.02.2026From 14 to 30 March, the ‘Circus Sea Breeze’ venue in Baku will host a major show called ‘Oriental Circus’. The centrepiece of the show will be a performance by the ‘Galkynysh’ national equestrian group from the State Circus of Turkmenistan, according to the online publication ‘Business Turkmenistan’. The artists will present a well-known equestrian act that has gained international recognition. In 2025, the troupe won the highest award at the International Circus Festival in Monte Carlo, confirming their high level of skill. The programme includes acrobatic stunts on Ahal-Teke horses, as well as a demonstration of the traditions of Turkmen equestrian art. The show will also feature performances by acrobats, artists of the original genre and acts with animals. The ‘Galkynysh’ tour is timed to coincide with the celebration of International Nowruz Day.
Turkmen customs officials took part in a global meeting of the World Customs Organisation
27.02.2026Employees of the Training Centre of the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan took part in the 21st Global Meeting of Regional Structures of the World Customs Organisation, held on 23–24 February at the organisation's headquarters in Brussels. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The event was held in a hybrid format. Participants discussed the exchange of best practices between regional training and expert centres, as well as current mechanisms for strengthening the capacity of customs administrations. Among the priority topics were the development of e-learning, the introduction of digital solutions and the expansion of the use of distance learning for specialists.
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.
New agreement will strengthen research into Turkmenistan's archaeological heritage
27.02.2026During their visit to the United Kingdom, a Turkmen delegation led by Rashid Meredov, Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan, met with Professor Timothy Williams of the Institute of Archaeology at University College London. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. During the conversation, the Turkmen side noted the scientist's long-standing contribution to the study and preservation of the archaeological heritage of Turkmenistan, in particular ancient Merv. The importance of expanding joint scientific research and museum and exhibition cooperation was emphasised. Following the meeting, an Agreement was signed between the Ministry of Culture of Turkmenistan and the UCL Institute of Archaeology, providing for the further development of partnership, joint expeditions, in-depth scientific research and the training of specialists in the field.
Ashgabat and London aim to give practical substance to their partnership
27.02.2026On 26 February, a bilateral meeting between Turkmenistan's Foreign Affairs Minister Rashid Meredov and the UK's Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs Yvette Cooper took place at Lancaster House. The Minister of State for Europe, North America and Overseas Territories in the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, Stephen Doughty, also participated in the negotiations, according to the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed a wide range of issues related to bilateral cooperation, the regional agenda and current international topics. The importance of the first ministerial meeting in the ‘Central Asia-UK’ format was noted and the readiness to fill it with practical content was confirmed. The Turkmen side once again emphasised its commitment to the peaceful political and diplomatic settlement of international issues on the basis of international law and the UN Charter. Particular attention was paid to the development of economic partnership, including cooperation in the fields of ‘green’ technology, digitalisation, transport, and the expansion of cultural and humanitarian ties. The meeting confirmed the mutual interest in further strengthening the Turkmen-British partnership. On the same day, a working lunch was held between the Foreign Affairs Ministers of Central Asia and the United Kingdom, organised by the British side. The participants discussed issues of regional security, sustainable development and interregional cooperation. In his speech, Rashid Meredov presented a number of initiatives to develop practical cooperation and strengthen regional security, including the launch of joint educational programmes and the creation of a ‘Turkmenistan-UK Cultural Dialogue’ format. The importance of assisting Afghanistan through the implementation of infrastructure projects, including the TAPI gas pipeline, power lines and railway construction, was noted. It was also proposed to expand technical and advisory cooperation with the involvement of British companies and the introduction of digital solutions to increase the transparency of cross-border trade.
Turkmenistan has confirmed its readiness for practical dialogue with the United Kingdom
27.02.2026On 26 February, Lancaster House hosted a meeting of Foreign Affairs Ministers from Central Asia and the United Kingdom, which discussed prospects for deepening political dialogue, as well as trade, economic and investment cooperation. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. Speaking at the meeting, Turkmenistan's Foreign Affairs Minister Rashid Meredov expressed his gratitude to the British side for the initiative to hold the first ministerial meeting in the ‘Central Asia-UK’ format, noting its relevance against the backdrop of strengthening regional consolidation in Central Asia. The participants emphasised the interest of the countries in the region in forming a sustainable and competitive economy capable of responding effectively to global challenges. The priority areas for cooperation with the United Kingdom include energy and decarbonisation, the development of renewable energy sources, financial and trade technologies using the experience of London as one of the world's leading financial centres, as well as cooperation in the field of professional services and transport and logistics infrastructure. In conclusion, the Turkmen side confirmed its readiness for active practical cooperation both within the new format and on a bilateral basis. Regional and other topical international issues were also discussed during the meeting.
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