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Turkmenistan and Tatarstan discussed ways to strengthen cooperation
16.04.2026On 15 April, negotiations were held at the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan between Ahmet Gurbanov, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan, and Vasily Shaikhraziev, Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Tatarstan, Russian Federation. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed current cooperation and its prospects, including in the cultural and humanitarian sphere. Separate attention was given to preparations for the final stage of the ‘Tatar Kyzy’ International Competition, which will take place in Turkmenistan in October 2026. It was noted that the contest contributes to the preservation of national traditions and the development of intercultural dialogue. The Turkmen side expressed its readiness to ensure a high standard of organisation for the event. Following the meeting, the intention to continue interaction and develop cooperation was confirmed.
A Chinese delegation visited the Medical University of Turkmenistan
16.04.2026A meeting was held at the Myrat Garryev State Medical University of Turkmenistan with a delegation from Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, with Rector Tang Zhishu as Head of the delegation. This was reported by TDH. The parties discussed current cooperation in the healthcare sector and prospects for its expansion. An increase in cooperation in medicine and education was noted. Following the negotiations, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed on the establishment of the Turkmen-Chinese Centre for Traditional Chinese Medicine. As part of the visit, a ‘Centre for Alternative Medicine’ was opened at the university. The participants familiarised themselves with its facilities and areas of work. The delegation was shown an exhibition on the national healthcare system, including information on medicinal plants and medical infrastructure. Tang Zhishu, Rector of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, was awarded the title of Honorary Professor of the Myrat Garryev State Medical University of Turkmenistan. The parties confirmed their readiness to further develop cooperation in the fields of medicine and staff training.
A delegation from the People's Republic of China visited the Charitable Foundation in Arkadag
16.04.2026On 15 April, a delegation from Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, led by Rector Tang Zhishu, visited the headquarters of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship in the city of Arkadag as part of their visit to Turkmenistan. This was reported by the website AsmanNews. A meeting was held with Oguljahan Atabayeva, Vice-President of the Fund for Medical Activities. Issues relating to the development of cooperation in the field of healthcare, including paediatrics and rehabilitation, were discussed. The significance of the memorandum signed between the Myrat Garryev State Medical University of Turkmenistan and Beijing University of Chinese Medicine on the establishment of the Turkmen-Chinese Centre for Traditional Chinese Medicine was noted. The parties emphasised the potential for expanding cooperation in the humanitarian sphere and healthcare. Special mention was made of the activities of the Charitable Foundation aimed at the treatment and support of children. The delegation visited the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Children’s Health and Rehabilitation Centre, where they familiarised themselves with the medical services and equipment. The use of comprehensive treatment methods, including modern technologies and therapeutic physical education, was highlighted. The guests also visited the State Equestrian Circus named after Gorogly, where they were introduced to the possibilities of hippotherapy and the activities of the ‘Galkynysh’ National Equestrian Games Group. Following the visit, the parties expressed their readiness to further develop cooperation and implement the agreements reached.
Serdar Berdimuhamedov received the Italian Ambassador
16.04.2026On 15 April, the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, received Martin Brook, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Italian Republic to Turkmenistan, who presented his credentials to the Head of State. This was reported by TDH. The Ambassador conveyed greetings from the President of Italy, Sergio Mattarella. The Head of State congratulated the diplomat on his appointment and reaffirmed his interest in developing cooperation. The parties noted the importance of cooperation with European Union member states, including Italy. They emphasised cooperation within the framework of the UN, the EU and the OSCE, as well as the significance of the ‘Central Asia–Italy’ format. Prospects for partnership in the trade, economic, energy, transport, logistics and agricultural sectors were discussed. Cooperation with the Italian company ENI, which is implementing projects in Turkmenistan, was noted. The transport and logistics sector was identified as a priority, including the development of the ‘North–South’ and ‘East–West’ international corridors. Issues of cooperation in education, science and culture were also discussed, including collaboration in archaeology and interest in learning the Italian language. Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their readiness to further strengthen bilateral ties.
The President of Turkmenistan received the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea
16.04.2026On 15 April, the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, received Lee Won-jae, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Korea to Turkmenistan, who presented his credentials to the Head of State. This was reported by the website AsmanNews. The diplomat conveyed greetings from the President of the Republic of Korea, Lee Jae-myung, and noted the high level of bilateral relations. The President of Turkmenistan congratulated the Ambassador on his appointment and reaffirmed his interest in the further development of cooperation. The parties emphasised that cooperation takes place both at the bilateral level and within the framework of international organisations, including the UN. The significance of the upcoming ‘Central Asia – Republic of Korea’ Cooperation Forum was noted. The Republic of Korea was described as an important economic partner of Turkmenistan. Cooperation with Korean companies was highlighted, including with ‘Daewoo’, which is implementing projects in the chemical industry. Prospects for cooperation in industry, science and education were also discussed. The activities of the King Sejong Korean Language Education Centre in Ashgabat were highlighted. Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their readiness to further strengthen bilateral ties.
Hero Arkadag held a meeting with the Deputy Prime Minister of the People’s Republic of China
16.04.2026On 15 April, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, held a meeting with Ding Xuexiang, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, who had arrived on a visit at the behest of Chinese President Xi Jinping. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. The parties noted the high level of Turkmen-Chinese cooperation and discussed its current state and prospects. The role of high-level visits in strengthening the strategic partnership was emphasised. It was noted that the countries coordinate their positions on the international stage, including cooperation within the UN and the ‘Central Asia–China’ framework, and support each other’s initiatives. The focus is on developing cooperation in the political-diplomatic, trade-economic, fuel-energy, transport-logistics and cultural-humanitarian spheres. The fuel and energy sector was highlighted separately. Projects to supply Turkmen gas to China are continuing, including the development of the next phase of the ‘Galkynysh’ field in partnership with CNPC. The prospects for cooperation within the framework of linking the ‘Revival of the Great Silk Road’ initiative with the ‘Belt and Road’ project were also discussed, as well as the development of cooperation in industry, agriculture and high technology. The Turkmen side confirmed its readiness to further expand the partnership. Following the meeting, the parties expressed confidence in the further strengthening of Turkmen-Chinese relations.
Uganda showcased its tourism potential at the ‘Turkmentravel – 2026’ exhibition
15.04.2026Uganda showcased its tourism potential for the first time at the international exhibition ‘Turkmentravel – 2026’ in Ashgabat. The country invited tourists from Turkmenistan to go on safaris, visit the source of the Nile and discover the culture of more than 52 ethnic groups, according to the news website Turkmenportal. Herman Olimi, a representative of the Uganda Tourism Board, highlighted the country’s rich natural and ethnocultural heritage, emphasising the opportunity to see gorillas, chimpanzees, giraffes and rare birds, as well as to visit the source of the Nile and one of the world’s largest freshwater lakes. He added that participation in the exhibition is aimed at developing partnerships with the Turkmen side and expanding mutual tourism exchanges. ‘Turkmentravel – 2026’ is taking place in Ashgabat from 14 to 16 April and brings together companies from various countries presenting tourism opportunities and international cooperation projects.
Turkmenistan and ICMPD discussed the development of migration policy
15.04.2026During its visit to Vienna, a delegation from the State Migration Service of Turkmenistan held a meeting with Susanne Raab, Director General of the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD). This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The parties discussed the development of integrated border management, the digitalisation of migration processes and the improvement of migration policy. They also discussed Turkmenistan’s participation in the BOMCA programme and regional platforms, including the Prague and Budapest processes. The importance of expanding cooperation through training, data exchange and pilot projects was also emphasised. Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their intention to promote safe and orderly migration and to continue working together on specific initiatives.
A Turkmen delegation is taking part in a border security conference in Vienna
15.04.2026A delegation led by the Deputy Head of the State Migration Service of Turkmenistan is taking part in the World Congress on Border Security, which began on 14 April in Vienna. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The forum highlights systematic efforts to strengthen international cooperation in the field of border security, improve border management within the framework of regional initiatives, and introduce modern technological solutions and innovative approaches into the border control system. The congress will run until 17 April.
Stoichkov highlighted Turkmenistan’s contribution to the development of the FIFA initiative
15.04.2026Hristo Stoichkov, winner of the 1994 Ballon d’Or, visited Turkmenistan to learn about FIFA’s ‘Football for Schools’ programme. This was reported by Turkmenportal. According to him, the initiative continues to grow, expanding children’s access to football. It is also used as a tool for developing education, teamwork and life skills. Stoichkov noted the level of implementation of the project in Turkmenistan and thanked the Football Federation of Turkmenistan for their hospitality. Hristo Stoichkov is one of Bulgaria’s most decorated footballers. Over the years, he played for ‘Barcelona’ and ‘Parma’. His honours include victories in the European Cup and the UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup, as well as four Spanish league titles. FIFA’s ‘Football for Schools’ programme aims to promote football among children and young people and to develop social skills through sport.
Ashgabat hosted an event to mark Turkish Tourism Week
15.04.2026On 14 April, an event marking Turkish Tourism Week was held at the Turkish Cultural Centre in Ashgabat. It was attended by representatives of the diplomatic corps, the tourism industry, cultural circles and the media, as well as Turkey’s Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism, Nadir Alpaslan, according to the Orient news agency. In his speech, he emphasised the role of tourism as a tool for strengthening international ties and noted the importance of cultural dialogue between Turkey and Turkmenistan. According to him, cooperation between the two countries is based on historical and cultural proximity and opens up opportunities for the development of the Great Silk Road routes. He also stated that Turkey is developing a multi-faceted tourism sector — ranging from archaeology and gastronomy to medical and religious tourism — and is interested in expanding investment and transport accessibility. Ahmet Demirok, Turkish Ambassador to Turkmenistan, in turn, highlighted the country’s significance on the global tourism map and described tourism as a ‘bridge between cultures’, emphasising Turkey’s popularity among Turkmenistan’s citizens and the diplomatic mission’s readiness to facilitate travel. As part of the programme, a photo exhibition showcasing Turkey’s natural and cultural attractions was presented, along with a display of historical artefacts. Guests at the event sampled dishes from the national cuisine and traditional sweets.
Young people from Turkmenistan discussed climate and security as part of the ‘Model OSCE’
15.04.2026A two-day ‘OSCE Model’ event was held in Ashgabat, during which students from the country’s leading universities discussed global environmental challenges and their impact on regional security. From 13 to 14 April, lecture theatres became venues for diplomatic discussions on the climate and its consequences, according to the news agency Orient. Participants from relevant universities practised the OSCE’s key principle – consensus-building – whilst learning to seek compromises at the intersection of economics, the environment and international interests. An international expert, joining remotely, emphasised that environmental degradation requires a combination of political experience and the energy of young people. William Leaf, Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat, noted that climate change affects the political, economic-environmental and humanitarian dimensions of security. According to him, such initiatives help to shape a new generation of leaders focused on dialogue and practical solutions. Under the guidance of trainers, the students simulated the decision-making process on climate-related case studies. The outcome of the discussions was the need for innovative and inclusive approaches to ensure sustainable environmental solutions. For the 25 participants, the project proved to be a valuable experience in the field of climate diplomacy.
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