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Representatives of Turkmenistan discussed environmental initiatives at the OTS forum
21.05.2026On May 16, the II Forum on Cooperation of NGOs of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) was held in Baku as part of the “Baku Urban Planning Week.” The event brought together representatives of civil society, environmental organizations, and experts from OTS member countries, according to the news website Turkmenportal. Turkmenistan was represented at the forum by Mergen Kepbanov, Director of the Project Office of the Regional Environmental Centre for Central Asia (CAREC); Orazgul Isgenderova, Assistant at the CAREC Project Office; Berkeli Ataev, Director of the public organization “Tebigi Kuvvat”; and Mubarak Gurbanova, Director of the NGO “Taze Zaman.” During the forum, participants discussed issues related to sustainable development, ecology, urbanization, youth cooperation, and public diplomacy. Special attention was given to the First Azerbaijani-Turkmen Forum on NGO Cooperation, where prospects for joint environmental, educational, and humanitarian projects were considered. The Director of the CAREC Project Office in Turkmenistan emphasized the important role of NGOs in promoting sustainable development initiatives and international cooperation. At the Young NGO Leaders Forum, Orazgul Isgenderova presented the Central Asian Youth for Climate Leadership (CYCL) program implemented by CAREC with the support of the OSCE. At the conclusion of the event, participants confirmed their interest in expanding partnerships and cross-sector cooperation within the Turkic world.
Turkmenistan held a series of meetings at Education World Forum 2026 in London
21.05.2026At the Education World Forum 2026 in London, the Turkmen delegation led by Deputy Minister of Education of Turkmenistan Azat Ataev held a series of meetings focused on international cooperation. This was reported by the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan. During talks with Classera, the parties discussed a pilot project in the areas of analytics, personalized learning, and teacher support. Meetings with representatives of ClassLink focused on integrating educational data, managing access to digital platforms, and the use of analytical tools in the education system. At a meeting with Times Higher Education, participants discussed the possibility of selecting one of Turkmenistan’s universities for preparation to participate in international rankings. Discussions with Pearson covered the establishment of certification centers and the introduction of international qualification programs. During negotiations with Educational Testing Service (ETS), the sides exchanged experience in the field of educational assessment and testing. Representatives of the Project Management Institute proposed holding an introductory seminar in Turkmenistan on managing educational reforms and digital projects. Talks with Matific focused on implementing a pilot project to support mathematics education for schoolchildren. During meetings with the British Council, the parties reviewed the results and future prospects of the AELLCA project aimed at accelerating English language learning in Central Asia. Deputy Minister of Education of Turkmenistan Azat Ataev also met with the United Kingdom’s Secretary of State for Education and Minister for Women and Equalities, Bridget Phillipson. The sides discussed the development of Turkmen-British cooperation in the field of education.
Ashgabat and Beijing Strengthen Strategic Partnership
21.05.2026President of the People’s Republic of China Xi Jinping has accepted the invitation of the President of Turkmenistan to visit the country. In his reply message, the Chinese leader confirmed his readiness to arrive in Turkmenistan at a time convenient for both sides. This was reported by TDH. In a letter addressed to the President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov, Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of developing a comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries and expressed interest in maintaining close working contacts. The Chinese President also stressed that the Chinese side supports the expansion of mutually beneficial cooperation with Turkmenistan in various fields. According to him, proposals for new joint projects may be considered by the China–Turkmenistan Cooperation Committee. The message notes that relations between Turkmenistan and China have been steadily developing on the basis of mutual respect and equality. Recent high-level meetings held during the visit of the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov to China gave additional momentum to bilateral cooperation.
Turkmenistan discussed regional security issues at a meeting in Kazakhstan
20.05.2026Turkmenistan’s Minister of Internal Affairs, Muhammet Hydyrov, took part in the second meeting of heads of law enforcement agencies in the “Central Asia – China” format in Astana. This was reported by the IIC. The event was attended by China’s Minister of Public Security Wang Xiaohong, as well as the interior ministers of Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. The heads of delegations were received by the President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. The parties discussed regional security issues, coordination of law enforcement activities, and cooperation in the context of developing transport and trade corridors in Central Asia. Particular attention was paid to cybersecurity and preventing the use of information technologies for illegal purposes. Participants of the meeting confirmed their readiness to expand interstate cooperation, strengthen the exchange of operational information, and develop professional contacts to respond to cross-border threats.
Turkmenistan hosts the 44th session of the EAG
20.05.2026In Ashgabat, on May 19, the “Ýyldyz” Hotel hosted the 5th Forum of Parliamentarians of member states of the Eurasian Group on Combating Money Laundering and Financing of Terrorism (EAG). The event was held within the framework of the 44th session of the EAG, according to the TDH news agency. Forum participants discussed the development of national systems for combating money laundering and financing of terrorism, issues of interagency cooperation, and the improvement of legislation. At a meeting between the EAG Chair and the Minister of Finance and Economy of Turkmenistan, measures to enhance the effectiveness of the relevant system were reviewed. Special attention was paid to the work of the coordinating Interagency Working Group. Within the forum, a meeting of the Working Group on Technical Assistance for EAG member states was held. Participants summarized the results of current activities and outlined priority areas for further cooperation. A separate meeting was also held on mutual evaluations and legal aspects. The sides discussed mechanisms for combating money laundering and financing of terrorism, exchanged experience, and reviewed plans for joint work in the near future. It was noted that Turkmenistan participates in international conventions and UN programs to combat organized crime and terrorism, and also develops cooperation with foreign countries and relevant organizations. In addition, a general meeting of members of the International Association of Training and Methodological Centers of EAG member states took place. The focus was on reducing terrorist threats, as well as ensuring transparency and stability of financial systems. For guests of the forum, a cultural program was organized, including visits to the National Museum of Turkmen Carpet and the State Museum of the State Cultural Center of Turkmenistan. The work of the 44th session of the Eurasian Group continues.
Members of the Parliament of Turkmenistan visited the United States under the open world program
20.05.2026A delegation of Turkmen parliamentarians visited the United States as part of the Open World program. During the visit, they met with U.S. House of Representatives member Sydney Kamlager-Dove, Turkmenportal reports. The parties discussed the outcomes of the C5+1 summit held last year, as well as prospects for interparliamentary cooperation between Turkmenistan and the United States. According to Kamlager-Dove, special attention was given to the development of contacts between the legislative bodies of the two countries. The Open World program is implemented with the support of the U.S. Congress and aims to expand interaction between the parliaments of the United States and foreign countries.
Turkmenistan has reaffirmed its commitment to the “One China” policy
20.05.2026Turkmenistan has confirmed its adherence to the “One China” policy and stated its support for the territorial integrity of the People’s Republic of China. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. As noted, Turkmenistan, which holds the status of permanent neutrality, conducts its foreign policy in accordance with international law and the Charter of the United Nations. In this regard, the country has once again confirmed that the Government of the People’s Republic of China is the sole legal government representing all of China, and that Taiwan is considered an inseparable part of China’s territory. Turkmenistan also opposes any form of “Taiwan independence,” supports the peaceful development of relations between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait, and supports the efforts of the Government of the People’s Republic of China toward national reunification.
Turkmenistan at the Education World Forum 2026: Digital Development of Education
20.05.2026From 17 to 21 May, a delegation from the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan, led by Deputy Minister Azat Ataev, is participating in the Education World Forum 2026 in London—one of the key international platforms focused on education policy, digital transformation, and human capital development, according to the press service of the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan. Within the forum, the Turkmen delegation presented initiatives on climate and environmental education, including the National Climate Plan, the “Green School” project, and cooperation with UNICEF on developing STEM approaches and digital learning tools. The delegation also participated in sessions on the digital transformation of education and held a series of meetings with international organizations and companies, including Classera, ClassLink, Times Higher Education, Pearson, ETS, Project Management Institute, Matific, and British Council. Discussions covered the digitalization of schools and universities, the introduction of AI in education, international certification, development of management KPIs, participation of universities in global rankings, and improving the quality of educational data. Special attention was given to pilot projects in personalized learning, educational data analytics, and digital infrastructure, as well as the development of English language education within the AELLCA program. A meeting was also held with representatives of the British government, discussing prospects for further cooperation between Turkmenistan and the United Kingdom in education. Participation in the forum contributes to strengthening international partnerships, sharing experience, and promoting digital and analytical approaches in the management of Turkmenistan’s education system.
A key stage of the international Silk Way Rally was held in Turkmenistan
20.05.2026The key stage of the international rally “Silk Way: West – East”, which passes through 19 countries, has been completed in Turkmenistan. From 13 to 18 May, participants covered challenging sections of the route — ranging from extreme off-road terrain to modern highways, according to the IIC. The race passed through Turkmenbashi and Ashgabat deep into the Karakum Desert, reaching the gas crater known as Garagum ýalkymy gas crater. Delegations from Germany, Türkiye, Italy, and other countries observed this natural phenomenon at sunset and described it as one of the most impressive highlights of the route. Along the way, participants also saw modern infrastructure and environmental projects in the country, including Altyn Asyr Lake. Organizers and drivers highly praised the level of organization of the stage and the development of motorsport in the region. The final point of the Turkmen section was Dashoguz, where competitors were welcomed and provided with rest. On the morning of 18 May, crews continued their journey to Uzbekistan, heading toward the rally finale in Mongolia.
Turkmenistan explores electricity export via underwater cable in the Caspian Sea
20.05.2026Turkmenistan is studying the possibility of participating in a project to lay a power cable along the seabed of the Caspian Sea for electricity exports. This was stated by Abdulla Dzhelilov, a senior officer of the Department of Foreign Economic Relations and Export of the State Electric Power Corporation “Turkmenenergo” under the Ministry of Energy of Turkmenistan, on the sidelines of the 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13), according to the online publication “Business Turkmenistan”. According to him, construction of a combined-cycle power plant with a capacity of 1,574 MW is ongoing in Turkmenbashi, which in the future could become a base for electricity exports. After the facility is commissioned, the option of supplies via an underwater cable to Azerbaijan is being considered, with further access to external markets. The project could be economically beneficial for all parties, and Azerbaijan is seen as a key transit route for further exports.
Turkmenistan Presented the City of Arkadag as a “Smart City” Model at WUF13
20.05.2026Chairman of the State Committee for the Construction of the city of Arkadag, Deryageldi Orazov, speaking at the Leaders’ Summit within the framework of the 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku, stated that modern urbanization requires the integration of technology, architecture, and environmental solutions. This was reported by the Orient information agency. Orazov congratulated Azerbaijan and UN-Habitat on the opening of the forum, thanked President Ilham Aliyev for the hospitality, and noted that WUF13 opens new opportunities for sustainable urban development. As an example, he presented the city of Arkadag, describing it as a safe, environmentally friendly, and “smart” project that has quickly gained international recognition. Orazov emphasized that the city’s concept was developed at the initiative of the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, taking into account the region’s natural and climatic conditions, seismic activity, and infrastructure, which helped ensure environmental balance. According to him, the introduction of digital technologies integrated city services into a unified management system and improved the quality of life, making the experience of Arkadag of interest to the international community.
Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan Strengthen Parliamentary Ties
20.05.2026On May 18, a meeting of members of the Turkmen-Uzbek interparliamentary friendship groups was held at the Mejlis of Turkmenistan. During the talks, the parties discussed the current state and prospects of bilateral cooperation, noting that relations are actively developing thanks to the efforts of the leadership of both countries, including in the parliamentary sphere, according to the press service of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan. The Turkmen side presented the main directions of the country’s domestic and foreign policy, based on the principles of neutrality, peace, humanism, and trust, and also spoke about the structure of the Mejlis and its work on the legislative support of reforms. It was emphasized that Turkmen-Uzbek relations, founded on historical closeness and shared spiritual values, are reaching a new level of development. A special role in this process is assigned to interparliamentary dialogue, as well as cooperation between профиль committees and youth and women’s parliamentary groups. The parties also reviewed events organized within the framework of Turkmenistan’s chairmanship in the CIS, including the women’s dialogue and meetings of interparliamentary structures. Following the meeting, the sides expressed confidence in the further strengthening of friendly Turkmen-Uzbek relations and exchanged mutual good wishes.
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