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The MFA of Turkmenistan offers convenient access to information via smartphone
18.02.2026The Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan has launched a mobile application for smartphones. This was reported on the website of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The programme provides daily news and information about the work of the Foreign Affairs Ministry and its subordinate agencies, including diplomatic missions abroad, consular services and permanent missions to international organisations. Users can sign up for consular services online. The app centralises access to official information and is available in Turkmen, Russian and English.
Hero Arkadag congratulated the President of Turkmenistan on receiving the WHO award
18.02.2026The National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov sent congratulations to the President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov on the occasion of him being awarded a special award by the World Health Organisation ‘For contribution to the promotion of peace, unity and diplomacy in healthcare’. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. The congratulatory message emphasises that this high international award is recognition of the peaceful, humane and multi-vector state policy, as well as consistent work to strengthen the healthcare system and form a culture of healthy lifestyles in the country. It is noted that under the leadership of the President of Turkmenistan, large-scale state programmes are being implemented in the field of healthcare, including the ‘Saglyk’ (‘Health’) State Programme, the development of medical infrastructure, the construction of modern clinics, rehabilitation centres and enterprises for the production of medicines. The congratulatory message also states that Turkmenistan's active cooperation with specialised UN agencies, including the World Health Organisation, contributes to the development of medical and scientific diplomacy, the expansion of international partnerships and the introduction of best practices into the national healthcare system. In conclusion, the Hero Arkadag expressed confidence that the activities of the Head of State will continue to contribute to enhancing the authority of Turkmenistan on the world stage, wishing the President good health, longevity and success in his state activities.
The President of Turkmenistan congratulated the diplomatic service employees
18.02.2026President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov sent congratulations to the country's diplomatic service employees on the occasion of Turkmenistan's Diplomatic Workers' Day. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. In his address, the Head of State noted that in 2026, the diplomatic corps will face new responsibilities aimed at further strengthening the country's international authority and expanding political, diplomatic, trade, economic, cultural and humanitarian cooperation. Emphasising the fundamental principles of Turkmenistan's foreign policy – neutrality, equality and good neighbourliness – the President recalled that the country has consistently adhered to these values since the early years of independence, confirming its commitment to the goals and principles of the United Nations. The Head of State pointed out that a vivid testimony to Turkmenistan's peacekeeping policy is the threefold recognition of its status of permanent neutrality by resolutions of the UN General Assembly, as well as the activities of the UN Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia, located in Ashgabat. It was particularly noted that the adoption, on the initiative of Turkmenistan, of a package of resolutions in the field of peace, security and sustainable development, as well as the declaration of 2025 as the International Year of Peace and Trust, confirm the country's high level of cooperation with the UN and its contribution to strengthening global stability. The congratulatory message noted that, in the context of contemporary international challenges, the diplomatic service is faced with high demands to improve mechanisms for political dialogue, international legal cooperation and trade and economic consultations. In conclusion, Serdar Berdimuhamedov expressed his confidence that Turkmen diplomats will continue to perform their duties with dignity in protecting national interests and strengthening Turkmenistan's position on the world stage, wishing them good health, prosperity and success in their service.
A meeting with the new Indonesian Ambassador took place in Ashgabat
18.02.2026On 17 February, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan Ahmet Gurbanov held a meeting with the newly appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Indonesia to Turkmenistan (residing in Tehran) Rolliansyah Soemirat. The Diplomat presented copies of his credentials. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The Turkmen side congratulated the Ambassador on his appointment and expressed its readiness to assist in his activities to develop bilateral relations. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of cooperation in the political-diplomatic, trade-economic and cultural-humanitarian spheres. Particular attention was paid to interaction in the international arena. The willingness to continue mutual support for initiatives within the framework of the UN was confirmed. Following the meeting, the interlocutors confirmed their intention to strengthen and expand mutually beneficial partnership.
Turkmen cinema became the subject of international discussion in Ankara
18.02.2026An International panel discussion ‘Turkmen Cinema: From Past to Present’ was held in Ankara, organised by TURKSOY in cooperation with the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Turkey. This was reported by the IIC. The forum brought together leading film industry experts, art historians and diplomats from Turkic-speaking countries to discuss the development of national cinema. The Turkmen delegation was headed by the country's Minister of Culture, Atageldi Shamyradov. The delegation also included Deputy Chairman of the State Committee for Television, Radio Broadcasting and Cinematography Annasahet Kakayev. Participants discussed the history of the Turkmen film school, its artistic features and current trends, including the digital transformation of the industry. Representatives of Turkmenistan noted the importance of preserving national traditions through cinema and expanding the presence of Turkmen films on the international arena with the help of modern technologies. Delegates from other countries expressed their readiness for joint projects, festival exchanges and educational programmes for young filmmakers. The forum strengthened cultural ties and humanitarian cooperation, creating a platform for the integration of Turkmen cinema into the global space and long-term partnership between Turkic-speaking states.
Turkmenistan and Kuwait agree to establish a platform for direct business
17.02.2026On 16 February, the first official meeting between the economic delegation of Turkmenistan and the Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry took place in Kuwait City. The creation of a direct platform for business and investment in energy, textiles and food was discussed, according to the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The visit of Mergen Gurdov, Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan, underscored the country's desire to diversify its foreign economic ties. The Kuwaiti side noted the strategic importance of Turkmenistan as a partner with an advantageous geographical location and resource potential. Turkmenistan proposed cooperation in three areas: food – supplies of high-quality agricultural products; industry – textiles and building materials for the Middle East markets; energy and petrochemicals – joint development of high-tech industries. The main outcome was a proposal to create a permanent platform for direct interaction between companies, which would simplify logistics and legal procedures. According to Gurdov, Turkmen products are valued for their quality and environmental characteristics, which are in demand in the Gulf countries.
Turkmenistan was represented at the economic session in Brussels
17.02.2026Sapar Palvanov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to Belgium, took part in this year's first session of the ‘Ambassador Insider Series’, organised by ‘The Brussels Times’ in Brussels. The event was also attended by Heads of diplomatic missions accredited in Belgium, according to the IIC of Turkmenistan. The informal format of the meeting allowed for discussion of Brussels' financial prospects and the EU's economic strategy in the context of a complex geopolitical situation, including issues of public debt, budgetary sustainability and the impact of global processes on regional markets. Presentations were made by ‘BNP Paribas’ Chief Economist Koen De Leus and Brussels Chamber of Commerce and Industry Director General Thierry Geerts, who presented an assessment of current macroeconomic trends and potential risks to the region's financial stability. The participation of the Ambassador of Turkmenistan contributed to strengthening dialogue with diplomats and the business community, as well as the exchange of views on the prospects for international economic cooperation and investment.
Turkmenistan's Ambassador to Saudi Arabia has assumed the duties of Permanent Representative to the OIC
17.02.2026On 16 February, Turkmenistan's Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Saudi Arabia, Muhammetgeldi Ayazov, presented his credentials to the Secretary General of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Hissein Brahim Taha, becoming the country's Permanent Representative to the OIC. This was reported by the Orient news agency. The ceremony of presenting the credentials took place at the OIC headquarters in Jeddah (Saudi Arabia). The OIC Secretary General noted the significant role of Turkmenistan in the Islamic world, emphasising that the policy of permanent neutrality contributes to strengthening peace and trust within the Organisation. For Turkmenistan, which considers the OIC a key platform for humanitarian and peacekeeping initiatives, the development of cooperation in the fields of culture, education and economic mutual assistance remains a priority. The OIC also highly appreciated Turkmenistan's experience in the field of preventive diplomacy and expressed confidence that the activities of the new Permanent Representative will strengthen bilateral dialogue.
Turkmenistan and the EU have confirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation
17.02.2026In Brussels, Turkmenistan's Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Sapar Palvanov met with Anna-Maria Boura, Chief Foreign Policy Adviser to the President of the European Council António Costa, during which the parties confirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation, according to the IIC. The participants emphasised the strategic importance of cooperation between the EU and Central Asia as a basis for developing relations between Turkmenistan and European institutions, and noted the importance of regular dialogue at all levels. The results of previous high-level contacts were assessed positively. At the end of the meeting, the Turkmen side stated that strengthening ties with the EU remains one of the priorities of the country's foreign policy, expressing confidence in the prospects for the implementation of joint projects in the interests of sustainable development and regional stability.
Turkmenistan and ESCAP strengthen cooperation in energy and digital economy
17.02.2026Turkmenistan's cooperation with ESCAP is moving into the active implementation stage in key areas: trade, energy, digital development and regional connectivity. This was stated by ESCAP Deputy Executive Secretary Shombi Sharp, according to the online publication ‘Business Turkmenistan’. He noted that, together with the Economic Commission for Europe and the UN Country Team, ESCAP supports Turkmenistan in promoting the Sustainable Development Goals, with a particular focus on trade, innovation and ‘green’ energy. Turkmenistan plays a leading role in the development of sustainable transport and the digital economy, and also has the potential to participate in the ‘Green Energy Corridor’ initiative. In January 2026, an ESCAP delegation with Mr. Sharp as head visited Ashgabat to participate in the SPECA 2026 Economic Forum.
Specialists from the Ministry of Health of Turkmenistan visited Slovenia
17.02.2026A delegation of specialists from the Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan visited Ljubljana (Slovenia) to study the country's experience in the prevention and early diagnosis of cervical cancer. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. The visit was organised with the support of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Representative Office in Turkmenistan in conjunction with the Regional Alliance for Cervical Cancer Prevention. The focus was on the national ZORA programme, recognised as one of the most effective screening models in Europe. Turkmen experts studied the organisation of population screening, the work of centralised registries and modern standards for cytopathology laboratories, as well as international protocols for the introduction of HPV testing. The knowledge gained will form the basis for the standardisation of national screening protocols and the strengthening of the women's health monitoring system in Turkmenistan.
Turkmenistan took part in a conference on public administration in Tashkent
17.02.2026Begench Halnepesov, Head of the Academic Department of the Academy of Public Administration under the President of Turkmenistan, took part in the international scientific and practical conference ‘New Trends in Public Policy and Governance’ and the accompanying round table. This was reported by the Orient news agency. The event was held in Tashkent at the Academy of Public Policy and Management under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan. The forum brought together more than 120 scientists and practitioners from over 10 countries, allowing them to compare national approaches to public administration, discuss current challenges and exchange practical experience. The discussions focused on issues of institutional development, digitalisation and the introduction of artificial intelligence into management processes. The participants agreed that the digital transformation of public administration is a necessary condition for efficiency and requires intergovernmental coordination. Special attention was paid to the development of public service, human capital, diplomacy and political analysis. The plenary and sectional meetings were accompanied by active discussions and the development of practical solutions. During the round table of Central Asian public administration academies, priorities for cooperation for 2026–2030 were identified, including joint educational programmes, research projects and the creation of platforms for the exchange of experience. An initiative to create a forum of academies in the region was also announced. Participants noted that the Tashkent conference had become not only a platform for dialogue, but also a starting point for launching specific cooperation mechanisms that would contribute to the formation of a sustainable professional network and the modernisation of public administration systems in the region.
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