News
The conference in Ashgabat brought together experts in international law
13.05.2026On May 12, a scientific and practical conference titled “Turkmenistan and International Law: the Experience of Neutrality and Cooperation” was held at the International University for the Humanities and Development. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The event brought together representatives of Turkmen ministries and agencies, members of the diplomatic corps, international organizations, foreign experts in the field of international law, as well as lecturers and students. During the conference, it was noted that the initiative to proclaim 2028 as the “Year of International Law,” first announced by the President of Turkmenistan at the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, is aimed at strengthening the legal foundations of international security and supporting the supremacy of the UN Charter. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan M. Byashimova emphasized that the country consistently advocates for strengthening international law, developing multilateral cooperation, and promoting peaceful dialogue and preventive diplomacy. At the conclusion of the conference, participants noted that observing 2028 under the auspices of international law would be an important step toward strengthening the legal framework of interstate relations and expanding cooperation.
The Turkmen cargo vessel Gadamly has entered international service
13.05.2026A ceremonial reception was held at the Baku International Sea Trade Port for the cargo vessel Gadamly — the first ship of this class built in Turkmenistan. The commissioning of the vessel marks an important milestone in the development of the national shipbuilding industry and in strengthening the country’s position within the regional transport system, according to the IIC. The 6,100-ton cargo ship is designed to carry 240 twenty-foot containers. It will operate regular services between the ports of Turkmenbashi and Baku, which will help accelerate cargo flows and improve the efficiency of logistics in the Caspian Sea region. The vessel’s maiden voyage, which took place on May 8, was ceremonially launched under the leadership of the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov. During the ceremony in Baku, officials noted that the commissioning of Gadamly would serve as an additional factor in the development of the Middle Corridor and Eurasian transport routes. The ship is expected to strengthen the region’s transit potential and enhance the resilience of logistics chains in the Caspian basin. The development of Turkmenistan’s merchant fleet through domestically built vessels is seen as part of a broader strategy to expand international cooperation and increase the capacity of transport corridors between East and West.
The Turkmenistan delegation held meetings in Tokyo on science and education issues
13.05.2026On May 12, a delegation from Turkmenistan led by the vice-rector of the International University for the Humanities and Development of Turkmenistan, N. Shykhlyyev, held a series of meetings in Tokyo with representatives of academic and educational circles, as well as international organizations. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. During a meeting with the President of the Turkmen–Japanese Science and Technology Association, G. Koinuma, the parties discussed areas of cooperation. The discussion was also attended by an advisor from the Directorate for Project Development and Implementation of the organization Asia SEED, A. Futohashi. The talks focused on the development of scientific and educational ties between the two countries. Key topics included humanities education, language studies, exchange programs, specialist training, the introduction of the KOSEN education system, as well as cooperation in the field of artificial intelligence. A separate meeting was held with the Deputy Director of the East Asia, Central Asia and Caucasus Department of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Y. Sonoyama. The parties discussed cooperation between Turkmen universities and JICA in areas of mutual interest. They also addressed a specialist exchange program for Japanese language teaching, which is being implemented with JICA’s support. In addition, JICA invited students from Turkmen universities to participate in a short-term online course on artificial intelligence and data science.
Turkmen films received awards at the “Turan” film festival
13.05.2026Turkmen films have received awards at the international film festival “Turan,” held in Izmir (Republic of Turkey), according to TDH. The competition program featured more than 2,000 films from over 90 countries. Turkmenistan was represented by works from the “Türkmenfilm” Association named after Oguz Khan of the State Committee of Turkmenistan for Television, Radio Broadcasting and Cinematography, as well as the “Mahabat” department. The film by Batyr Batyrov, “Ýeňişli ädimler,” received the “Red Apple” award in the “Best Feature Film” category. In the short film category, Mekan Gurbanaliev’s work “Mahir terbiýesi” was recognized. The Special Jury Prize was awarded to the animated film by Rovshen Velmiev, “Meniň oýnum.” The “Turan” film festival is organized by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Turkey in cooperation with the International Organization of Turkic Culture (TÜRKSOY). The forum aims to develop cooperation in the field of cinematography and promote the culture of Turkic peoples. Film industry representatives, actors, and experts from various countries participated in the event. The festival included screenings, discussions, and professional networking meetings. The participation of Turkmen films and the awards received reflect the expansion of international cooperation in the field of culture and cinema.
South Korea is considering participation in projects to modernize Turkmenistan’s infrastructure
13.05.2026South Korean companies are exploring participation in the modernization of the Karakum Canal in Turkmenistan, according to the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Turkmenistan, Lee Won-jae, as reported by the online publication “Business Turkmenistan”. He said that South Korean businesses are also showing interest in upgrading railway infrastructure and establishing production facilities for fiber-optic cables and steel pipes in the country. Seoul aims to expand cooperation with Turkmenistan across several sectors, including energy, transport, IT, shipbuilding, healthcare, and culture. Promising areas include hydrogen-powered public transport, electric vehicle infrastructure, and autonomous driving technologies. In shipbuilding, the company Koryo Shipbuilding Industry Technology is already working with Turkmenistan’s Balkan plant on a project to build cargo ships, with potential expansion into railway ferries. Separately, the phosphorous fertilizer plant project in Turkmenabat, implemented by Daewoo Engineering & Construction, was highlighted as a foundation for further development of bilateral industrial cooperation.
An evening was held in Ashgabat to mark the 30th anniversary of the partnership between Turkmenistan and Petronas
13.05.2026A gala evening dedicated to the long-standing cooperation between Turkmenistan and the Malaysian energy company “Petronas” was held in Ashgabat. This was reported by the Orient news agency. The event brought together representatives of the government, the diplomatic corps, and the oil and gas industry, becoming a symbol of partnership and professional collaboration. The meeting was attended by Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan Guvanch Agadjanov and the leadership of the country’s oil and gas sector, as well as senior management of “Petronas,” including Group CEO Tan Sri Tengku Muhammad Taufik and representatives of the exploration and production division. During the event, the parties noted that over 30 years of cooperation, “Petronas” has become one of the key investors in the Caspian region, having invested about $11.7 billion in the economy of Turkmenistan. Special emphasis was placed on the transition of the partnership to a new stage — the introduction of innovative and environmentally friendly technologies. Significant attention was also given to the humanitarian aspect: more than 300 Turkmen students have studied at the Petronas University of Technology, contributing to the development of the national energy sector. A key outcome of the visit was the signing of a protocol on new terms for the development of licensed blocks 19 and 20 on the Caspian Sea shelf, confirming the further expansion of cooperation. The delegation also plans to visit Kiyanly to acknowledge the contribution of employees at production facilities to the overall success of the partnership.
Hero-Arkadag held talks with Malaysian representative
13.05.2026On May 12, a meeting was held in Ashgabat between the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, and Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Political Affairs to the Prime Minister of Malaysia, Tan Sri Mohd Hassan Marican. This was reported by TDH. The parties discussed the development of Turkmen-Malaysian cooperation in the fields of economy, energy, transport, education, and culture. Particular attention was paid to trade and economic ties, as well as cooperation in the fuel and energy sector. Hero-Arkadag highlighted the contribution of Malaysian companies to the development of bilateral partnership. Special emphasis was placed on the role of Petronas in the development of Turkmenistan’s sector of the Caspian Sea and in training personnel for the oil and gas industry. The sides also discussed prospects for further cooperation in the Caspian region and the participation of the Malaysian side in projects related to the development of the Galkynysh gas field. Opportunities for implementing new initiatives in the gas chemical industry were also considered. The significance of signing the Protocol on Commercial Terms between the State Concern Türkmennebit and Petronas Carigali (Turkmenistan) Sdn. Bhd was emphasized. During the upcoming visit of the Prime Minister of Malaysia, the parties plan to conclude a Production Sharing Agreement. The interlocutors also touched upon issues of educational and humanitarian cooperation, including the education of Turkmen students at Malaysian universities, as well as collaboration in the fields of digital technologies and ecology. The guest conveyed greetings from the leadership of Malaysia. In conclusion, the parties reaffirmed their intention to develop partnership and strengthen bilateral ties.
“Çalık Enerji” becomes general partner of the “White City Ashgabat 2026” exhibition
13.05.2026The organizing committee of the 25th International Exhibition and Conference “White City Ashgabat 2026” has announced “Çalık Enerji” as the general partner of the event, which will take place in Ashgabat on May 24–25. This was reported by the IIC. The partnership reflects the growing importance of the forum as a regional platform for discussing infrastructure development, energy, and sustainable urban planning. “Çalık Enerji,” an international energy and infrastructure company that has implemented projects in a number of countries, is actively involved in the modernization of Turkmenistan’s energy system and the development of modern energy solutions. The conference is expected to bring together more than 400 participants from 40 countries, including representatives of government agencies, businesses, and international organizations, and will serve as a platform for discussing investment and technological projects in the fields of industry and urban development.
The international exhibition “Agro Pack Turkmenistan – 2026” has opened in Ashgabat
12.05.2026In Ashgabat, the international exhibition “Agro Pack Turkmenistan – 2026” has opened at the building of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan and will run until May 14. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The event is dedicated to modern developments and innovations in agriculture, the food industry, and processing. Participants can explore new technologies and solutions, as well as discuss prospects for cooperation. President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov delivered a welcoming address to the participants, emphasizing the importance of the exhibition for the exchange of experience and the development of international cooperation. The exhibition features companies from Belarus, the Netherlands, Russia, Azerbaijan, the United States, Turkey, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. Turkmen producers are showcasing achievements in agriculture, livestock farming, processing, and food production, while also strengthening their export positions. Within the framework of the exhibition, business meetings and negotiations are scheduled, aimed at developing mutually beneficial cooperation.
Turkmen entrepreneurs have been invited to Trans EXPO 2026 in Yerevan
12.05.2026Turkmen entrepreneurs have been invited to take part in the 25th International Specialized Exhibition of Transport and Logistics Trans EXPO 2026. It will be held on September 4–6, 2026, in Yerevan. This was reported by “Business Turkmenistan”, citing the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan. The exhibition will take place within the framework of the ARMENIA EXPO forum and will bring together representatives of the transport, logistics, and automotive industries. The venue will showcase solutions for road transport and logistics, new models of cars and motorcycles, repair and maintenance services, as well as transportation technologies. The exposition will include car and motorcycle dealerships, auto parts, automotive chemicals, transport and logistics companies, as well as telematics and communication solutions. The program will feature business meetings, negotiations with potential partners, and the exchange of experience among market participants.
Turkmenistan and Cambodia are considering new tourist routes
12.05.2026Turkmenistan and Cambodia have discussed the possibility of launching direct flights between Ashgabat and major tourist destinations in Cambodia. This was reported by “Business Turkmenistan”. The issue was reviewed during a meeting between the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Akhmet Gurbanoв, and the Minister of Tourism of Cambodia, Huot Hak, in Phnom Penh. The sides examined potential routes including Ashgabat–Phnom Penh and Ashgabat–Siem Reap. Separately, the parties discussed expanding cooperation in the tourism sector. This included organizing familiarization trips for investors, media representatives, and tourism companies, as well as promoting the tourism potential of both countries. They also considered accelerating the preparation and signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the relevant agencies. Akhmet Gurbanov confirmed Turkmenistan’s interest in strengthening cooperation with Cambodia. He highlighted the country’s cultural and historical sites, which are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, as well as the potential for medical tourism. As part of the visit of the Turkmen delegation, meetings were held in Phnom Penh on May 8–9 with representatives of the Cambodian government and business community, including talks with the Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ith Sophhea, and the President of the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce, Kith Meng.
Turkmenistan and Japan discussed cooperation in the field of education
12.05.2026On May 11 in Tokyo, a meeting took place between a Turkmen delegation and the President of Tokyo University of Foreign Studies, Nobuo Haruna. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. From the Turkmen side, the meeting was attended by the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to Japan, A. Bayramov, and the Vice-Rector of the International University for the Humanities and Development of Turkmenistan, N. Shykhlyyev. The parties discussed the development of cooperation in the fields of education, science, and culture. Particular attention was given to academic exchanges of students and faculty, as well as the expansion of foreign language study programs. The participants also considered opportunities for cooperation with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) within joint projects and research initiatives. Following the meeting, mutual interest was noted in further strengthening Turkmen-Japanese cooperation in humanitarian and educational spheres.
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