News
Expansion of partnership with European Investment Bank discussed in Ashgabat
24.02.2026On 23 February, the Ministry of Finance and Economy of Turkmenistan held a meeting with a delegation led by Edvardas Bumsteinas, Head of the European Investment Bank's Division for Asia, Central Asia and the Pacific, who arrived in the country on a working visit. This was reported by the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The parties expressed interest in further expanding mutually beneficial cooperation. It was reported that the main purpose of the delegation's two-day visit was to hold final negotiations on the draft Framework Agreement between Turkmenistan and the EIB. It was noted that the relevant ministry had reviewed the document over the past year and this year and submitted its proposals. Confidence was expressed that the final version of the agreement would be agreed during the current visit. Among the priority areas of cooperation with the EIB is the transport sector, in particular the financing of the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor, the creation of which is intended to increase the interconnectedness of Central Asian and European countries. The progress of the Roadmap for the digitalisation of the corridor within the framework of the SPECA Programme was also noted. Special attention was paid to digital transformation and the development of energy and water management. It was emphasised that, along with the diversification of the fuel and energy complex, Turkmenistan is systematically working to develop environmentally friendly ‘green’ energy. In this regard, broad prospects for the participation of European banks in the implementation of sustainable energy projects were noted. The Turkmen side also emphasised the importance of developing agriculture and the rational use of water resources, including cooperation with the EIB on the construction of irrigation facilities and the introduction of high-tech equipment. It was noted that, with its significant hydrocarbon reserves, the country is interested in projects for their extraction and deep processing. Following the meeting, confidence was expressed in the further effective development of the partnership between Turkmenistan and the European Investment Bank.
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 strengthens cooperation with ESCAP in key areas
24.02.2026Turkmenistan and the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) discussed prospects for cooperation in the transport and energy sectors. This was reported by the online publication ‘Business Turkmenistan’. Cooperation issues were discussed at a meeting between Turkmenistan's Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov and ESCAP Deputy Executive Secretary Shombi Sharp. In addition, the meeting discussed sustainable development issues in the context of implementing the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Earlier, Sharp noted that cooperation between Turkmenistan and ESCAP is entering a new phase of targeted implementation in key areas, including trade, transport and energy connectivity, energy transition and digitalisation.
The British Embassy in Turkmenistan held a formal reception
24.02.2026On 20 February, the British Embassy in Turkmenistan held a formal reception in honour of the birthday of Scottish poet Robert Burns. This was reported by the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The meeting was attended by representatives of Turkmenistan's state authorities, diplomats and international organisations. The official part of the event was opened by British Ambassador Stephen Conlon and Turkmenistan's Minister of Culture Atageldi Shamyradov. In their welcoming speeches, they noted the active development of bilateral cooperation in politics, economics and culture, emphasising the importance of cultural diplomacy in strengthening ties between nations. The evening included a reading of Robert Burns' poetry, Scottish ‘Ceili’ dancing and a presentation of the national dish ‘Haggis’, symbolising the Scottish spirit. The event demonstrated the role of the embassy in promoting British culture and strengthening trust between the countries.
Young tennis player from Turkmenistan becomes ITF Asia champion
23.02.2026The ITF Asia 14&U Development Championships, the Western and Central Asia tennis championship, took place in the capital of Bahrain. Turkmenistan was represented at the tournament by young athletes Nazli Hudaykuliyeva and Sulgun Ishankuliyeva, according to IIC. The competition lasted two weeks and served as a qualifying stage for this year's Asian Championship finals. The winners earned the right to compete in the main continental tournament. Nazli Hudaykuliyeva, trained by Meylis Orazmuhammedov and Yuri Rogussky, won two gold medals in the singles. In the doubles competition, she and Sulgun Ishankuliyeva (‘Jahan’ Creativity Centre, coaches Jennet Hallyeva and Yuri Rogussky) won four gold medals. As a result of the tournament, N. Hudaykuliyeva became the absolute champion of the two-week cycle and secured her place in the final of the Asian Championship. Currently, the 13-year-old athlete ranks 9th in the Asian rankings. The tennis player intends to represent Turkmenistan in the junior Grand Slam tournaments — the Wimbledon Championships and the Australian Open — in the under-14 age category.
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 Seychelles discuss tourism and cultural development
22.02.2026On 16 February, the Embassy of Turkmenistan in the UAE hosted a meeting between Bayram Bayramov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan, and Gervais Moumou, Ambassador of the Republic of Seychelles to the UAE. This was reported by the press service of the Turkmen diplomatic mission. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of bilateral cooperation, paying particular attention to tourism, visa procedures and tourist exchange. Representatives of the Seychelles emphasised the favourable conditions for Turkmen citizens, and both sides expressed their readiness to develop cooperation between tourist organisations. In addition, issues of cultural cooperation were discussed, including the organisation of events and the arrival of creative groups, with Turkmenistan confirming its readiness to hold cultural days abroad. The interlocutors also considered diplomatic relations, cooperation in the field of education, student programmes and the establishment of contacts between chambers of commerce and industry.
The Ambassador of Turkmenistan proposed a platform for cooperation with a Belgian university
22.02.2026Sapar Palvanov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to Belgium, met with Bart Hendrickx, Head of Academic Diplomacy at the KU Leuven. This was reported by the press service of the Turkmen diplomatic mission. They discussed the university's international and research profile, its participation in European programmes, including ‘Horizon Europe’, as well as opportunities for cooperation with universities in Central Asia. The Ambassador of Turkmenistan spoke about the region's role in the international agenda, Turkmenistan's historical and cultural heritage, and the country's initiatives to strengthen peace and trust. The opening of the International University of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs was noted as an example of a practice-oriented approach. The Turkmen side proposed creating a sustainable platform for cooperation with the University of Leuven, including possible formal agreements. Hendrickx supported the idea and stressed the importance of defining common areas of cooperation for a structured assessment of opportunities for joint work. The parties also positively noted the Ambassador's lecture on Turkmenistan's permanent neutrality, delivered to university students, which contributed to the strengthening of humanitarian ties and academic dialogue.
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