News
The State Concern ‘Türkmengaz’ and ‘QazaqGaz’ have identified new areas for cooperation
19.04.2026Maksat Babayev, Chairman of the State Concern ‘Türkmengaz’, held negotiations in Ashgabat with Alibek Zhamauov, Chairman of the Board of ‘QazaqGaz’. This was reported by the online publication ‘Business Turkmenistan’. The parties discussed the current state of cooperation in the gas sector and prospects for its expansion. Opportunities for implementing new joint projects were also explored. Furthermore, as part of the conference ‘Turkmenistan – People’s Republic of China: 20 Years of Strategic Partnership in the Gas Sector’, A. Zhamauov met with the leadership of CNPC and SOCAR. Key issues regarding cooperation in the sector were discussed.
Turkmenistan and China discussed expanding trade cooperation
19.04.2026On 16 April 2026 in Ashgabat, Mergen Gurdov, Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan, held negotiations with a delegation led by Ren Hongbin, Head of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade. This was reported by the press service of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan. The meeting took place as part of the scientific and practical conference and exhibition ‘Turkmenistan – People’s Republic of China: 20 Years of Strategic Partnership in the Gas Sector’. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of trade and economic cooperation. The role of international exhibitions in expanding business contacts was also addressed. Issues relating to increasing trade turnover, developing investment cooperation and supporting entrepreneurship were examined. Following the negotiations, a commitment to further cooperation was confirmed.
Rashid Meredov presented Turkmenistan’s position at ADF-2026
19.04.2026On 17–18 April, a delegation from Turkmenistan led by Rashid Meredov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Foreign Affairs Minister, took part in the Fifth Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF-2026). This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The forum was held in Antalya under the motto ‘Mapping Tomorrow, Managing Uncertainties’. Participants discussed issues of international cooperation, sustainable development, security and economic ties. Speaking at the session on Central Asia, Rashid Meredov presented Turkmenistan’s position on strengthening regional stability and developing infrastructure. Projects in the fields of energy, international transport corridors and Eurasian cooperation were highlighted. It was emphasised that stability and security remain key conditions for the region’s development. In this regard, the role of the Consultative Meetings of the Heads of State of Central Asia, with the participation of Azerbaijan, was noted as a new format for political interaction. Particular attention was paid to energy strategy. Issues of supply diversification were discussed, including the TAPI gas pipeline project and the expansion of electricity exports. It was noted that Turkmenistan’s approach takes into account the interests of producers, transit countries and consumers. Initiatives within the UN framework on energy security were touched upon. It was noted that the UN General Assembly had adopted three resolutions on energy sustainability at the initiative of Turkmenistan. Their implementation is being carried out at the national level, including through existing export projects. Issues relating to the development of the transport and logistics sector were also discussed. The importance of Central Asia as a key hub on the ‘East–West’ and ‘North–South’ routes was noted. The need for coordination of efforts by countries in the region to ensure the effective operation of transport corridors between Asia and Europe was emphasised.
The President of Turkmenistan has signed a document establishing ‘Galkynyşgaz’
19.04.2026The President of Turkmenistan has signed a Resolution aimed at developing the oil and gas sector and developing the fourth phase of the ‘Galkynyş’ gas field. This was reported by AsmanNews. According to the document, the State Concern ‘Türkmengaz’ has been tasked with establishing the state-owned enterprise ‘Galkynyşgaz’ on a self-financing basis. The development and approval of the new enterprise’s articles of association are also provided for.
The Turkmen delegation took part in a meeting of the CIS Council of Foreign Ministers
18.04.2026On 17 April 2026, the regular meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) took place in Moscow. The Turkmen delegation was led by Ahmet Gurbanov, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The meeting was attended by the heads of the foreign ministries of Azerbaijan, Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, as well as representatives of the CIS Executive Committee. The parties discussed topical issues on the international and regional agenda, the current state and prospects of cooperation within the CIS, including in connection with the 35th anniversary of the organisation. The discussions took place in both a restricted and an expanded format. Ahmet Gurbanov outlined Turkmenistan’s priorities and noted the constructive nature of cooperation within the CIS framework, emphasising the potential for expanding joint efforts. Particular attention was paid to cooperation between the foreign ministries of the CIS countries. The results of the implementation of the Plan for Multilevel Inter-Ministerial Consultations for 2025 and the Programme for Strengthening Partnership between the Foreign Ministries of the CIS States were reviewed. Following the meeting, decisions were adopted aimed at strengthening foreign policy coordination and expanding cooperation in the political, trade and economic, and cultural and humanitarian spheres. The next meeting of the CIS Council of Foreign Ministers is scheduled for October 2026 in Turkmenistan.
Turkmenistan and the ILO are strengthening inter-agency coordination of projects
18.04.2026On 18 April 2026, a meeting took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan between Deputy Foreign Minister Myahri Byashimova and a delegation from the International Labour Organisation (ILO) led by Miranda Fajerman. Representatives of relevant ministries and agencies of Turkmenistan also took part in the meeting. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. During the meeting, practical activities within the framework of the ILO delegation’s visit were discussed, including the holding of joint round-table discussions in the country’s regions with the participation of state bodies and social partners. The parties noted the consistent nature of Turkmenistan’s cooperation with the ILO, including work to improve the regulatory framework and implement international labour standards. The importance of inter-agency coordination in the implementation of joint initiatives was emphasised. The Roadmap for Cooperation for 2026 was reviewed, identified as the main tool for achieving concrete results. The outcomes of previously held events were noted, including the presentation of the results of the 2025 survey and the receipt of feedback from the field. The need to increase media coverage of Turkmenistan’s cooperation with the ILO on international platforms was also emphasised. Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their readiness to continue the dialogue and develop cooperation.
Minnikhanov spoke about negotiations with Turkmenistan at ‘KazanForum-2026’
18.04.2026Preparations for the International Economic Forum ‘Russia – Islamic World: KazanForum-2026’ are drawing to a close in Kazan. The Head of Tatarstan, Rustam Minnikhanov, presented the results of these preparations at a meeting of the organising committee chaired by Russian Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin, reports Turkmenportal. Minnikhanov announced that three intergovernmental commissions with Indonesia, Nigeria and Mali will take place as part of the forum. Tatarstan is also ready to host meetings of the co-chairs of intergovernmental commissions with Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan and Palestine, as well as a working group meeting with Malaysia. The key themes of ‘KazanForum-2026’ will be Islamic finance, investment, the halal industry, culture, sport and the role of women in modern society. Kazan’s status as the cultural capital of the Islamic world lends particular significance to the forum. The programme includes a congress of culture ministers from the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). According to Minnikhanov, OIC member states account for around half of Tatarstan’s foreign trade turnover. Anton Kobyakov, an adviser to the Russian President, announced that from 10 to 20 May, 24-hour consular offices for foreign participants will be operating at Moscow and Kazan airports. The forum will take place from 12 to 17 May at venues in Kazan. The main business programme, comprising over 120 events, will be held on 14–15 May at the ‘Kazan Expo’ International Exhibition Centre. Representatives from over 60 countries and around 20 regions of Russia are expected to attend. According to the organisers, Turkmenistan will present a national pavilion as part of the forum’s exhibition programme, showcasing investment projects and areas of bilateral cooperation.
Turkmenistan took part in the 59th session of the UN Commission on Population and Development
18.04.2026A delegation from Turkmenistan took part in the 59th session of the UN Commission on Population and Development, which was held at the UN headquarters in New York. This was reported by IIC of Turkmenistan. The UN Commission on Population and Development is responsible for monitoring the implementation of the Programme of Action of the International Conference on Population and Development. It examines demographic trends and their impact on the socio-economic development of countries, and formulates recommendations for member states. During the session, issues relating to the quality of life of the population, access to education and healthcare, and the effective management of resources against the backdrop of global demographic changes were discussed. Particular emphasis was placed on incorporating the demographic agenda into sustainable development strategies. Turkmenistan’s participation in the Commission’s work facilitates the exchange of experience in the areas of family support, maternal and child health, and the promotion of equal opportunities. The development of cooperation with international organisations, including the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), was also noted. The outcomes of the session will be taken into account when formulating long-term national strategies within the framework of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Turkmenistan is developing its transit capacity and transport infrastructure
18.04.2026Turkmenistan, historically situated on the Great Silk Road, continues to develop its transport infrastructure and strengthen its transit potential. The country is regarded as a key hub for modern routes between Europe and Asia and is working to expand its trade and economic ties, reports TDH. On 10 April, the ‘Mary–Turkmenabat’ section of the ‘Ashgabat–Turkmenabat’ high-speed motorway was officially opened. The Head of State attended the ceremony. The project forms part of a large-scale road construction programme and the strengthening of the transport system. The ‘Ashgabat–Turkmenabat’ motorway is one of the country’s largest infrastructure projects. It ensures the rapid movement of transit cargo and connects the domestic road network with routes leading to the Asia-Pacific region. The route is designed to speed up transport and reduce logistics costs. Turkmenistan regularly raises transport issues at the UN as well. The country advocates for the development of global transport cooperation. On Turkmenistan’s initiative, the UN General Assembly adopted a number of relevant resolutions, including the document on the ‘Decade of Sustainable Transport (2026–2035)’, adopted on 15 December 2025. Particular attention is being paid to the development of Central Asia as a transport hub on the Great Silk Road. Multimodal corridors are being established in the region, providing access to the Black and Baltic Seas, as well as to the countries of South and South-East Asia, including China, India and Pakistan. Turkmenistan supports international initiatives, including the ‘Modal Highway for Central Asia’ project and the ‘Afghanistan–Turkmenistan–Azerbaijan–Georgia–Turkey’ transport corridor. The country also participates in the TRACECA programme. The sector’s development is enshrined in long-term strategies — the socio-economic development programme up to 2026 and the national programme up to 2052. These provide for the modernisation of roads, growth in transit traffic and the expansion of logistics routes. In 2025, construction also began on the ‘Turkmenbashi–Garabogaz–Kazakhstan’ border section, and the bridge across Garabogazköl Bay was opened. The project strengthens the region’s transport connectivity and opens up additional international routes. At the same time, the transport fleet is being renewed and bus services modernised, including the purchase of new buses for the capital. Urban and regional transport systems are being developed, including in the new city of Arkadag. Particular attention is being paid to the legal regulation of the sector and improving the quality of services. The Ministry of Road Transport of Turkmenistan is working to modernise standards and transport safety controls. Overall, the country’s transport strategy is aimed at expanding transit opportunities, attracting investment and integrating into international logistics chains.
CNPC plans to introduce new technologies in Turkmenistan’s gas industry
18.04.2026As part of the fourth phase of the ‘Galkynysh’ field development, plans are in place to establish a demonstration facility featuring cutting-edge technologies, efficient management, environmentally friendly solutions and mutual benefit. This was stated by Dai Houliang, Chairman of the China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC), at the International Scientific and Practical Conference ‘Turkmenistan – People’s Republic of China: 20 Years of Strategic Partnership in the Gas Sector’, reports the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. He noted that against the backdrop of global changes and the transformation of the world energy market, deepening cooperation between Turkmenistan and China in the energy sector is of strategic importance. According to him, CNPC is ready, with the support of the leadership of both countries, to develop an energy partnership and strengthen cooperation. The company will adhere to an approach of high standards and continuous improvement in the implementation of the ‘Galkynysh’ project. There are also plans to expand cooperation in the fields of new energy sources, oil refining, petrochemicals and engineering. Particular attention will be paid to the exchange of technologies in exploration and production, as well as the implementation of solutions based on artificial intelligence and big data in the gas industry. The forum in Ashgabat served as a platform confirming the development of long-term energy cooperation between Turkmenistan and China.
Ashgabat hosted a session of the FIFA's ‘Football for Schools’ project
18.04.2026A training session was held in Ashgabat on the main pitch of the ‘Ashgabat’ Multifunctional Stadium as part of the international FIFA's ‘Football for Schools’ initiative. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. The project is being implemented by the Football Federation of Turkmenistan and the Ministry of Education. It aims to develop sport for children and young people and to introduce football into the school curriculum. The session was attended by representatives of the relevant federation, PE teachers from all regions of the country and young footballers from leading clubs. The highlight was a masterclass featuring the renowned footballer Hristo Stoichkov, who arrived in Ashgabat as part of a delegation of FIFA experts. He presented practical and theoretical recommendations, demonstrated tactical formations and the basic elements of preparation for professional-level matches. A separate session was held for teachers. They were shown FIFA’s modern methods for developing playing skills and leadership qualities in schoolchildren. The FIFA's ‘Football for Schools’ programme aims to identify talent, strengthen social ties and promote team sports. Lessons on the rules of the game and discipline are provided for students. The initiative is expected to influence the physical education system and support the development of football in the country.
Turkmenistan to step up IT workforce training in partnership with ‘Huawei’
18.04.2026Deputy Minister Azat Atayev and ‘Huawei’s Vice President for Central Asia, Xu Hai, held negotiations at the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Education. The parties discussed expanding cooperation in the field of digitalisation of education, training personnel for the digital economy, and the implementation of artificial intelligence technologies. The development of the ‘Huawei ICT Academy’ was discussed separately. This refers to a training programme offering international certification (HCIA, HCIP and HCIE) in the fields of cloud technologies, AI and cybersecurity. Preliminary agreements were reached on launching pilot vouchers for students for ‘Huawei’ certification, drafting a memorandum on establishing an ICT Academy in Turkmenistan, localising AI training materials, and providing universities with access to a resource centre and courses. The achievements of Turkmen students in the ‘Huawei ICT Competition’ were also highlighted. The parties plan to involve lecturers more actively in international academic programmes. They agreed to move towards the practical implementation of joint projects.
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