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The Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan discussed cooperation with the Asian Development Bank within the framework of CAREC
16.05.2026A working meeting was held at the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan with representatives of the Asian Development Bank, where the implementation of initiatives under the CAREC program was discussed, as well as the integration of “green” skills and principles of a just transition into the education system. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan. The parties also considered prospects for further cooperation. The ADB presented plans to develop environmental competencies in vocational and higher education, strengthen institutional capacity, and align these measures with the goals of the nationally determined contribution under the Paris Agreement. Particular attention was paid to cooperation with educational institutions and the business community to develop skills in demand on the labor market. The participation of specialized universities and the training of teachers in “green” topics were also discussed. The parties noted successful cooperation with the Turkmen Agricultural University and the development of projects in the field of agricultural “green” technologies. Deputy Minister of Education of Turkmenistan Azat Ataev emphasized the connection between the initiatives and the state strategy, including the development of digital solutions in education and the idea of creating a regional climate technology center. ADB representatives positively assessed these steps and outlined the potential for expanding cooperation in the areas of digitalization, training personnel for the knowledge economy, and the tourism sector. Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their readiness to further develop the partnership within the framework of CAREC projects.
Turkmenistan has been granted observer status in ICESCO
16.05.2026The National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, took part in a forum of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation during his visit to Kazan. The event was held in connection with the city being declared the cultural capital of the Islamic world, according to the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. Hero-Arkadag noted that the meeting provided an opportunity to develop multilateral dialogue in the cultural and humanitarian sphere, strengthen mutual understanding between peoples, and promote a culture of peace. It was also emphasized that during the 15th session of the General Conference of Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, Turkmenistan was granted observer status in the Organization dedicated to education, science, and culture across the Islamic world. ICESCO Director-General Salim bin Mohammed AlMalik stated that the possibility of declaring Ashgabat the cultural capital of the Islamic world in 2028 is currently under consideration. Work in this direction has already begun.
The President of Turkmenistan expressed support to India’s leadership
16.05.2026President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov has extended condolences to President of the Republic of India Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the casualties and destruction caused by severe storms and heavy rainfall in the state of Uttar Pradesh. This was reported by TDH. On behalf of the people and Government of Turkmenistan, as well as personally, the head of state expressed sympathy to the families of the victims and wished a speedy recovery to those injured.
Turkmenistan and Nepal discussed cooperation within the framework of ECOSOC
15.05.2026The Permanent Representative of Turkmenistan to the United Nations, Vepa Hajiyev, held a meeting with the Permanent Representative of Nepal and President of the 2026 ECOSOC session, Lok Bahadur Thapa, according to the IIC. During the talks, the sides discussed cooperation within the framework of ECOSOC, focusing on key areas of sustainable development, the development of transport connectivity, strengthening energy security, as well as support for countries facing intersecting energy and governance challenges. Separately, they addressed the implementation of the “Avaza” programme initiated by Turkmenistan, as well as the upcoming UN Decade of Sustainable Transport for 2026–2035. In addition, the parties exchanged views on preparations for the 2026 High-Level Political Forum, including a planned side event dedicated to sustainable transport development, which Turkmenistan intends to organize.
The Chairperson of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan met with the Speaker of the Parliament of Azerbaijan
15.05.2026During a visit to Bukhara, the Chairperson of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan, Dunyagozel Gulmanova, held a meeting with the Speaker of the National Parliament of Azerbaijan, Sahiba Gafarova. The sides noted the importance of interparliamentary cooperation in strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries, according to the news website Turkmenportal. At the meeting, it was emphasized that Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan are connected by shared historical, cultural, and spiritual values, and that the partnership—based on mutual respect and trust—is actively developing across various areas. The parties also discussed cooperation in the international legal sphere, the exchange of experience in legislative activity, and further work of interparliamentary friendship groups. The Turkmen side invited Azerbaijani colleagues to take part in international events in Avaza within the framework of Turkmenistan’s chairmanship in the CIS and the Consultative Meeting of Heads of State of Central Asia and Azerbaijan.
Turkmenistan is represented at the 72nd session of the UN Tourism Commission in Malta
15.05.2026The delegation of Turkmenistan, led by the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to the Federal Republic of Germany and Permanent Representative of Turkmenistan to UN Tourism, Turizm B. Rejepov, is taking part in the 72nd session of the UN Tourism Commission for Europe, held from 12 to 14 May 2026 in St. Julian’s (Malta). This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The event is organized by the UN Tourism Secretariat in cooperation with the Government of Malta. It is attended by member states of the Commission, as well as representatives of international organizations and relevant institutions. During the session, participants are discussing global and regional approaches in the field of tourism, the activities of UN Tourism, and the implementation of the Europe work programme for 2025–2026. Cooperation with affiliated members of the organization is also being considered. Special emphasis is placed on preparations for the International Year of Sustainable and Resilient Tourism 2027, the development of international cooperation, and current challenges facing the tourism industry. Turkmenistan is participating in the work of the Commission and is developing cooperation with the UN Tourism Secretariat in the field of tourism. The country notes growing interest in its tourism potential, based on natural sites, cultural and historical heritage, and modern infrastructure.
Turkmen students took part in a youth festival in Beijing
15.05.2026On May 14 in Beijing, the opening ceremony of the 22nd International Youth Cultural Festival was held at Chengxin Square of the University of International Business and Economics (UIBE) under the motto “Lead the Tide, Embrace the World.” Turkmen students studying at the university, with the support of the Embassy of Turkmenistan in the PRC, took part in the event and presented their national culture, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. As part of the festival, a national pavilion of Turkmenistan was organized and prepared by Turkmen students. The exhibition showcased the country’s culture and traditions and became part of the international student platform. The pavilion was visited by diplomats, representatives of various organizations, and international students. The program also included artistic performances. Students presented traditional dances and showcased elements of Turkmen culture and national cuisine. Separately, it was noted that Turkmen students participated on the eve of the festival in the Symposium on High-Quality Development of Higher Energy Education within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative, held at China University of Petroleum. Participation in these events formed part of Turkmenistan’s international student engagement and is aimed at strengthening humanitarian ties and promoting intercultural exchange.
The delegation of Turkmenistan took part in the inauguration ceremony in Uganda
15.05.2026From May 10 to 15, 2026, a Turkmenistan delegation led by the Chairman of the Democratic Party Ata Serdarov visited Kampala to take part in the inauguration of the re-elected President of the Republic of Uganda, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The ceremony took place at Cololo Square in the capital. After the inauguration, the Turkmen delegation was received by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni at the presidential palace in Entebbe. The Turkmen side conveyed congratulations to President Museveni on his re-election and assumption of office on behalf of the President of Turkmenistan and the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan. A letter of thanks from President Serdar Berdimuhamedov for the invitation to the ceremony was also presented. Yoweri Museveni thanked the leadership of Turkmenistan for the congratulations and for the participation of the delegation. The parties noted the potential for developing political and economic ties between the two countries. During the visit, a meeting took place between Ata Serdarov, Chairman of the Democratic Party of Turkmenistan, and Richard Todwong, the General Secretary of the ruling party of Uganda. The Ugandan side was informed about the activities, goals, and the role of the Democratic Party of Turkmenistan in strengthening public unity and patriotic upbringing of youth. The parties expressed their willingness to develop inter-party and inter-parliamentary contacts and to exchange experience. Meetings also took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Uganda at the level of heads of structural divisions. Prospects for cooperation were discussed in political-diplomatic, trade-economic, and cultural-humanitarian areas. Specific attention was given to issues related to political consultations between the foreign affairs agencies, as well as the organization of business forums and cultural events. In addition, the Turkmen delegation was received by Henry Oryem Okello, Uganda’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs. The sides exchanged views on key areas of bilateral cooperation.
Prospects for Turkmen–Korean cooperation were discussed in Ashgabat
15.05.2026On May 14, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Akhmet Gurbanov met with His Excellency Li Won-je, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Korea to Turkmenistan. This was reported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the development of political-diplomatic cooperation, including regular inter-ministerial consultations, inter-parliamentary contacts, and cooperation within international organizations—primarily the United Nations. Mutual support for initiatives at international platforms was noted, and the importance of contacts at the highest and senior levels was emphasized for developing Turkmen-Korean relations. Cooperation in the format “Central Asia — Republic of Korea” was also considered. The parties noted the stable nature of trade and economic cooperation. The contribution of Korean companies to projects in the gas-chemical sector, transport infrastructure, and shipbuilding was highlighted. In the cultural and humanitarian sphere, cooperation in education, science, sports, and the study of the Korean language in Turkmenistan was emphasized. According to both sides, such contacts help strengthen mutual understanding between the peoples of the two countries.
Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov proposed initiatives in the field of cultural heritage
15.05.2026The National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, during his speech at the OIC forum, emphasized the special importance of preserving and enhancing the cultural and historical heritage of Islamic countries, as well as strengthening humanitarian cooperation based on shared spiritual and civilizational values, TDH reports. The Hero-Arkadag noted that cultural diversity and respect for traditions are key factors in sustainable development and mutual understanding between peoples. Particular attention was paid to the role of international organizations in supporting the cultural agenda. In this context, the activities of ISESCO were highlighted as an important platform for developing cooperation in the fields of education, science, and culture. The National Leader of the Turkmen people stressed that Turkmenistan attaches great importance to the preservation of historical and cultural heritage, including sites inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, as well as intangible forms of traditional art such as carpet weaving, musical performance, and horse breeding culture. It was proposed to develop long-term international initiatives aimed at studying, preserving, and promoting the cultural heritage of the Islamic world, including the creation of joint scientific, educational, and digital projects, as well as expanding cultural exchange between countries.
Turkmenistan presented initiatives at a women’s forum in Uzbekistan
15.05.2026On May 14, 2026, a delegation led by the Chairperson of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan, D. Gulmanova, took part in the Second Asian Women’s Forum in Bukhara (Uzbekistan). This was reported by the press service of the Mejlis. The forum was dedicated to expanding the economic, social, and political opportunities for women and strengthening their role in public administration and civic life. Speaking at the opening ceremony, D. Gulmanova emphasized the importance of international cooperation in protecting women’s rights and enhancing their social security. It was noted that Turkmenistan is implementing policies to increase women’s participation in socio-political and economic spheres in line with its international human rights commitments. Attention was also drawn to the participation of Turkmen women in government bodies and various sectors of the economy, as well as their contribution to the country’s development. Information was separately presented on Turkmenistan’s international initiatives within the framework of the United Nations, including a proposal to declare 2028 the “International Year of International Law.” In conclusion, D. Gulmanova invited forum participants to attend international events to be held in Turkmenistan in 2026 as part of the country’s chairmanship of the CIS.
Turkmenistan and Cyprus discussed the development of bilateral relations
15.05.2026On May 14, a meeting was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan between the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, A. Gurbano, and the Ambassador of the Republic of Cyprus (resident in Moscow), Kypros Yorgallis. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The sides discussed the development of bilateral relations. They noted the potential for expanding cooperation in the political-diplomatic, trade-economic, and cultural-humanitarian spheres. Particular attention was given to interagency contacts, which, as emphasized, contribute to strengthening cooperation between the two countries. Cooperation between Turkmenistan and the Republic of Cyprus within international organizations was also highlighted. At the end of the meeting, both sides confirmed their readiness to further develop mutually beneficial partnership between the two countries.
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