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Hero Arkadag gave an interview to representatives of the Turkmen media
12.04.2026During his visit to the Republic of Austria, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, gave an interview to representatives of the Turkmen media. This was reported by TDH. During the conversation, the situation in the Middle East and the possible consequences of an escalation, including the risk of the use of weapons of mass destruction, were discussed. Hero Arkadag noted that Turkmenistan is concerned about developments in the region, given its geographical proximity and the potential impact on neighbouring countries. He emphasised that the country’s foreign policy is based on the status of permanent neutrality and advocates the resolution of conflicts exclusively through peaceful, political and diplomatic means. According to him, Turkmenistan has for decades participated in international efforts to reduce military tensions and opposes the use of force as a political tool. Turkmenistan’s position on weapons of mass destruction was highlighted separately. Hero Arkadag declared his categorical rejection of their use and recalled the country’s participation in key international treaties in the field of arms control, including the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons and the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty. Commitment to the Central Asian Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone was also emphasised. According to him, the consequences of using such weapons are far-reaching and long-term, affecting the population, the environment and the socio-economic development of the regions. In the second part of the interview, Hero Arkadag commented on reports of strikes on territories in the Caspian region against the backdrop of the Middle East conflict. He noted that the Caspian states have been developing cooperation and building a regional security system for over three decades. It was recalled that in 2018, the Caspian states signed the Convention on the Legal Status of the Caspian Sea, establishing it as a zone of peace, good-neighbourliness and security. The document stipulates that military activity by third states is inadmissible. Hero Arkadag stated that Turkmenistan considers any military action in the Caspian region unacceptable and expresses concern regarding such incidents. It was also noted that the country is considering a draft joint statement by the Caspian states, which highlights the risk of further escalation and threats to regional stability should the conflict widen.
The negotiations with the IAEA took place during Hero Arkadag’s visit to Austria
12.04.2026During his visit to the Republic of Austria, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, held a meeting with the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, Rafael Grossi. This was reported by the online publication AsmanNews. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of cooperation with the IAEA. Turkmenistan’s commitment to the principles of the peaceful use of nuclear energy and the strengthening of global security was emphasised. The development of cooperation in recent years was noted. Key areas of focus include healthcare, where, with the Agency’s support, modern diagnostic and treatment methods are being introduced and the disease control system is being improved. Issues relating to the expansion of the international legal framework were discussed. Turkmenistan’s participation in relevant international conventions was noted, including mechanisms for rapid notification and mutual assistance in emergencies. The parties reviewed the preparation of a new Country Framework Programme for 2026–2030. The document will define the priorities for technical cooperation, including the development of nuclear medicine and the enhancement of safety standards. Particular attention was paid to supporting landlocked developing countries. The role of peaceful nuclear energy as a tool for development was emphasised. Hero Arkadag proposed holding a high-level regional forum in Ashgabat to mark the anniversaries of the Treaty on a Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone in Central Asia and Turkmenistan’s accession to the IAEA. Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their readiness for further cooperation and exchanged best wishes.
Negotiations were held in Vienna between Hero Arkadag and Rabab Fatima
12.04.2026During his visit to the Republic of Austria, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, held a meeting with Rabab Fatima, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. The parties discussed Turkmenistan’s cooperation with the UN and its specialised agencies. The role of the country’s policy of positive neutrality in ensuring peace and sustainable development was emphasised. Rabab Fatima conveyed greetings from UN Secretary-General António Guterres to the Hero Arkadag. It was noted that Turkmenistan’s initiatives, announced at the International Vienna Energy and Climate Forum, are in line with the UN’s priorities, including the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. Hero Arkadag reaffirmed Turkmenistan’s commitment to expanding cooperation with the UN. At the conclusion of the meeting, the parties exchanged best wishes.
Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov discussed cooperation with the Head of UNIDO
12.04.2026During his visit to the Republic of Austria, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, held a meeting with Gerd Müller, Director-General of the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO). This was reported by AsmanNews. The parties discussed the development of cooperation and Turkmenistan’s participation in UNIDO projects. The country’s contribution to promoting initiatives in the field of sustainable industrial development and energy security was noted. Hero Arkadag emphasised the importance of cooperation with UNIDO. In this context, it was noted that on 29 June 2023, the city of Arkdag received a Certificate of Appreciation from UNIDO for the implementation of digital technologies and the development of a ‘smart’ city. Prospects for cooperation in industry were discussed. Among the priorities are the development of the carpet industry, the expansion of textile exports, and UNIDO’s participation in the implementation of the second phase of the Arkadag city development project. Particular attention was paid to the creation of a medical cluster in the city of Arkadag utilising modern technologies. The parties reviewed issues on the climate agenda. Turkmenistan confirmed its readiness to develop a Roadmap for cooperation with UNIDO for 2026–2030 in the field of ‘green’ industry and the fight against climate change. Turkmenistan’s regional initiatives were discussed, including the establishment of a Centre for Combating Desertification in Central Asia, the development of mechanisms for managing transboundary water resources, and the promotion of environmental projects in the Caspian Sea region. The initiative to establish a UN Regional Centre for Climate Technologies in Central Asia was also noted. UNIDO confirmed its interest in further developing its partnership with Turkmenistan. Following the meeting, the parties exchanged best wishes.
Hero Arkadag held negotiations with the Federal President of Austria
12.04.2026During his visit to the Republic of Austria, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, held a meeting with the Federal President of Austria, Alexander Van der Bellen. This was reported by TDH. The two sides exchanged greetings. Hero Arkadag conveyed greetings from President Serdar Berdimuhamedov. In response, Alexander Van der Bellen extended his best wishes to the Head of Turkmenistan and recalled their previous meeting in New York on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. The current state and prospects of bilateral cooperation were discussed. It was emphasised that the visit is seen as a step towards expanding cooperation in the political, economic and cultural-humanitarian spheres. The convergence of the two countries’ approaches on issues of neutrality was noted. The Turkmen side expressed its gratitude to Austria for its support of international initiatives, including participation in UN General Assembly resolutions. Separate mention was made of the support for Turkmenistan’s candidacy for the UN Security Council for the period 2031–2032. The parties also discussed cooperation within the framework of the Group of Friends of Neutrality and collaboration with the European Union. The development of contacts between the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan and the intensification of inter-parliamentary dialogue were noted. In the economic sphere, opportunities to increase trade turnover were discussed. The role of the Joint Turkmen-Austrian Commission was emphasised. It was proposed to hold its next meeting in June in Ashgabat. ‘Green’ energy, digitalisation and artificial intelligence were identified as promising areas. Turkmenistan is interested in Austria’s experience in the development of urban infrastructure, water treatment and the banking sector. The development of humanitarian cooperation, including academic exchanges, was noted. Cooperation continues with Graz University of Technology and the Vienna Diplomatic Academy. The parties also emphasised the importance of cultural ties. Vienna balls and concerts by the Turkmen-Austrian symphony orchestra ‘Galkynysh’ are held regularly in Ashgabat. Hero Arkadag invited the Federal President of Austria to visit Turkmenistan. Alexander Van der Bellen confirmed his readiness to further develop bilateral relations. At the conclusion of the meeting, the parties exchanged best wishes.
An inclusive run was held in Ashgabat to mark Europe Day
12.04.2026A mass inclusive run, the ‘Wings of Friendship’ EU–Turkmenistan race, took place in Ashgabat to mark Europe Day. Over 800 people took part in the event, including children, older people, professional athletes, amateurs and people with disabilities, reports Turkmenportal. Participants were offered 2, 5 and 10 km routes. The routes ran around Independence Park. Winners and active participants received prizes and commemorative gifts. According to Beata Peksa, the European Union’s Ambassador to Turkmenistan, the run is part of the programme of events for Europe Day, which is traditionally celebrated in May. The event was brought forward in view of the weather conditions. The event also coincided with World Health Day and brought together participants from various countries, including members of the diplomatic corps and residents of Turkmenistan’s regions. Europe Day is celebrated annually on 9 May in honour of the 1950 Schuman Declaration, which marked the beginning of the formation of the European Union. In 2025, the EU delegation, together with the State Committee for Physical Culture and Sport and the Ashgabat City Administration, organised the Peace and Trust Marathon. The race was organised by the State Committee for Physical Culture and Sport of Turkmenistan, the Ashgabat City Administration and the ‘Run-Rush’ running community, with the support of sponsors.
Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan discussed cooperation in the fields of education and science
11.04.2026On 9 April, a meeting was held at the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan with a delegation from the Ministry of Science and Education of Azerbaijan, headed by Deputy Minister Firudin Qurbanov. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of cooperation in the fields of education and science, noting the steady development of bilateral relations based on friendship and mutual trust. The focus was on expanding links between universities, developing academic mobility, introducing networked educational programmes, as well as cooperation in the fields of STEM education, digitalisation, innovation and scientific research. Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their intention to strengthen their partnership and develop joint educational initiatives.
Efforts to develop gas fields are being stepped up in the Lebap velayat
11.04.2026On 10 April, during a government meeting, Guvanch Agajanov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan, reported on efforts to improve the oil and gas sector in the Lebap velayat. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. It was noted that measures are being taken in the region to ensure a consistent supply of natural gas to the population, including the maintenance of gas pipelines, distribution stations and regulating equipment by the ‘Türkmengaz’ State Concern. The ‘Türkmengeologiýa’ Corporation is carrying out large-scale drilling operations aimed at discovering new deposits and increasing groundwater reserves. Development of the ‘Bagtyýarlyk’ concession area and a number of gas fields, including ‘Malaý’, ‘Naýyp’, ‘Kükürtli’ and others, is also continuing, as is the supply of gas to the domestic market and for export. In addition, work is underway to improve the efficiency of the Seydi Oil Refinery and liquefied natural gas production facilities in the region. Having heard the report, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov emphasised the need for further modernisation of the industry, the introduction of modern technologies, improved efficiency of drilling operations and the timely repair of gas production wells.
The Lebap velayat is seeing positive trends in economic development
11.04.2026On 10 April, during a government meeting, Hojamyrat Geldimyradov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan, presented a report on measures for the socio-economic development of the Lebap velayat for January–March 2026. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. At the end of the period, growth was recorded across a number of indicators: industrial production increased by 0.2%, bread output by 0.8%, flour output by 13.9%, vegetable output by 28.9%, fruit by 8.8%, milk by 3.1%, eggs by 2.4% and canned goods by 2.1%. Freight turnover rose by 3.9%, passenger turnover by 0.6% and retail trade by 11.3%. Revenue targets for the local budget were met at 113.4%, whilst expenditure targets were met at 98.8%. As part of the National Rural Programme, construction of social infrastructure facilities continued, including 20 buildings, water treatment plants and housing. Revenues from bank branches in the region exceeded the target by 24%. Having heard the report, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov emphasised the need for further socio-economic development and instructed that the timely utilisation of investments be monitored.
Russia intends to develop cooperation with Turkmenistan in the space sector
11.04.2026Russia is ready to develop cooperation with Turkmenistan in the space sector, including the training of a Turkmen cosmonaut for spaceflight. This was stated by Ivan Volynkin, Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Turkmenistan, according to the news website Turkmenportal. According to the diplomat, promising areas for cooperation include the manufacture and launch of satellites, navigation technologies, and scientific research and development. The diplomat also noted that, should the Turkmen side be interested, Russia is ready to prepare a Turkmen cosmonaut for flight. The Ambassador also recalled the contribution of cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko. He emphasised that during his latest mission, O. Kononenko set a record for the total duration of time spent in space — over 1,110 days.
Turkmenistan is represented at the Congress of Oncologists of Turkic States
11.04.2026A delegation from Turkmenistan is taking part in the 2nd International Congress of Oncologists of Turkic States, which is being held from 8 to 11 April in Samarkand. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The forum has become a platform for exchanging experience and strengthening cooperation in the fields of oncology and radiology. Participants are discussing modern methods of cancer diagnosis and treatment, innovative technologies, as well as programmes for prevention and early detection of diseases. The programme includes plenary sessions, scientific sessions, discussions and practical workshops. In addition, a Forum for Young Oncologists was held as part of the congress, aimed at the training and professional development of junior specialists. Turkmen oncologists are actively participating in all key events, exchanging experiences and exploring new approaches in oncology.
Turkmenistan took part in the preparations for the ‘Central Asia–Republic of Korea’ Summit
11.04.2026On 10 April 2026 in Seoul, Ahmet Gurbanov, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan, took part in the Senior Officials’ Meeting of the ‘Central Asia–Republic of Korea’ Cooperation Forum. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The participants discussed preparations for the First ‘Central Asia–Republic of Korea’ Summit. The meeting was chaired by Ms Eui-hae Cecilia Chung, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of the Republic of Korea. The Turkmen side noted the significance of the forum as a platform for the development of multilateral cooperation. It was confirmed that Turkmenistan was one of the first to support the initiative to hold the Summit in Seoul. Drafts of the final documents and organisational matters, including the preparation of side events, were discussed. Turkmenistan expressed its readiness for further joint work on their coordination. On the same day, Ahmet Gurbanov took part in a meeting of Deputy Foreign Affairs Ministers of Central Asian countries with the Foreign Affairs Minister of the Republic of Korea, Cho Hyun. The parties discussed issues of bilateral and regional cooperation. Particular attention was paid to cooperation within the framework of the ‘Central Asia – Republic of Korea’ Forum. It was noted that the upcoming Summit is viewed as an important stage in the development of dialogue and the expansion of cooperation in the diplomatic, trade and economic, investment and humanitarian spheres. The Turkmen side confirmed its readiness to actively participate in the preparation and conduct of the Summit.
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