On May 26, a meeting took place in New York between the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Rashid Meredov, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Jeyhun Bayramov. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The sides discussed the current state and prospects for the development of Turkmen–Azerbaijani relations across key areas. Particular attention was paid to strengthening political and diplomatic dialogue, expanding high-level contacts and visits, as well as implementing previously reached agreements. The ministers noted the importance of further developing the legal and contractual framework of cooperation between the two countries. They also exchanged views on cooperation within international and regional organizations, primarily the United Nations, emphasizing the high level of mutual support in international structures. Separately, they discussed preparations for upcoming high-level events and coordination of joint efforts on international platforms. Following the meeting, the parties reaffirmed their commitment to further developing friendly, fraternal, and good-neighborly relations between Turkmenistan and the Republic of Azerbaijan.
On May 26, within the framework of a visit to the United States, a meeting took place between the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Rashid Meredov, and the UN Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, Rosemary DiCarlo, according to the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the development of cooperation between Turkmenistan and the United Nations. Turkmenistan’s commitment to the policy of permanent neutrality and its course toward preventive diplomacy, peaceful settlement of disputes, and adherence to international law was emphasized. The Turkmen side highly appreciated the work of the UN Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia in Ashgabat. Possible directions for expanding its activities were discussed in order to strengthen regional cooperation and confidence-building measures. Issues of regional security and mechanisms for the peaceful settlement of conflicts based on dialogue were also considered. The initiative of Turkmenistan to develop a Global Security Strategy was also discussed. Its role in shaping a more sustainable international security system was emphasized. The proposal to establish a University of Peace and Neutrality in cooperation with the UN was also addressed. As a first step, the establishment of the Department of Peace and Neutrality at the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan was noted. On this basis, a master’s program is planned, along with the development of partnership with the United Nations University for Peace. In conclusion, the sides highlighted the importance of joint projects in infrastructure and regional connectivity. Among them is the Turkmenistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan–India (TAPI) gas pipeline project, seen as a factor of energy security and economic cooperation.
On May 26, a meeting was held in Ashgabat between the Minister of Foreign Affairs Rashid Meredov and the UN Under-Secretary-General, High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States (UNOHRLLS), Rabab Fatima. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. At the beginning of the talks, Rashid Meredov conveyed greetings and best wishes to Rabab Fatima on behalf of the President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov and the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. The sides discussed Turkmenistan’s role as co-chair of the Group of Friends of Landlocked Developing Countries. It was noted that the country will continue to support the interests of these states and promote international cooperation. Special attention was paid to the Avaza Programme of Action for 2024–2034 and the Avaza Political Declaration. The participants discussed steps for their practical implementation. Key areas for LLDC countries were also addressed, including climate change, sustainable energy, water diplomacy, digitalization, and the development of a circular economy. At the end of the meeting, Rashid Meredov thanked UNOHRLLS for its long-term cooperation and reaffirmed readiness for further collaboration.
On May 26, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Rashid Meredov held a meeting with United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The sides discussed the development of the strategic partnership between Turkmenistan and the United Nations, as well as current international and regional issues. Rashid Meredov conveyed greetings and best wishes to António Guterres on behalf of the President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov and the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. Particular attention was given to the UN General Assembly resolution adopted on May 20, 2026, entitled “The Role and Importance of the Policy of Neutrality in Maintaining and Strengthening International Peace, Security and the Process of Sustainable Development.” The Turkmen side emphasized the significance of the resolution as confirmation of the role of neutrality in strengthening trust and preventing conflicts. In turn, the UN Secretary-General noted the relevance of the document and thanked Turkmenistan for the initiative. The parties also discussed Turkmenistan’s initiative to establish a University of Peace and Neutrality under the auspices of the UN. The sides noted that the project could become a platform for promoting the ideas of neutrality and developing international dialogue. The discussion also covered Turkmenistan’s proposals, including the development of a Global Security Strategy, the creation of a Chamber of Peace Mediation under the auspices of the UN, and the expansion of preventive diplomacy. The parties highly appreciated the work of the UN Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia and reaffirmed the importance of cooperation within the framework of the Sustainable Development Goals. Following the meeting, the sides confirmed their readiness to further strengthen the partnership between Turkmenistan and the United Nations in the interests of peace and sustainable development.
On May 26, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Rashid Meredov addressed the UN Security Council’s high-level open debate with a statement on behalf of the Group of Friends of Neutrality for Peace, Security and Sustainable Development. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The debate focused on upholding the goals and principles of the UN Charter and strengthening the international system based on the central role of the United Nations. In his speech, the head of Turkmenistan’s foreign ministry emphasized the special importance of dialogue, diplomacy, and international cooperation under current conditions. On behalf of the Group of Friends of Neutrality, four key priorities were outlined. Among them was support for the central role of the UN and the principles of the UN Charter as the foundation of international relations. The statement also highlighted the importance of diplomacy, mediation, and dialogue in resolving international issues. In this context, participants welcomed the adoption by the UN General Assembly of a resolution on the role of neutrality policy in strengthening peace, security, and sustainable development, initiated by Turkmenistan. Rashid Meredov stated that neutrality is viewed as a tool for preventing conflicts, strengthening trust, and promoting peaceful interaction among states. In addition, support was expressed for the use of the territories of neutral countries for negotiations and mediation processes. Special attention was also paid to the interconnection between peace, security, and sustainable development, as well as issues of transport connectivity and economic cooperation. In conclusion, the Group of Friends of Neutrality reaffirmed its commitment to supporting international efforts aimed at strengthening peace, trust, dialogue, and multilateral cooperation under the coordinating role of the United Nations.
On May 26, Turkmenistan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Rashid Meredov, took part in the high-level open debate of the United Nations Security Council dedicated to upholding the goals and principles of the UN Charter and strengthening the international system based on the central role of the United Nations. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The meeting was held at the invitation of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China, which currently holds the presidency of the UN Security Council. Speaking at the debate, the head of Turkmenistan’s foreign ministry stated that Turkmenistan consistently promotes the principles of peace, trust, and preventive diplomacy, and advocates for strengthening the role of the UN in international relations. The minister emphasized the importance of international initiatives put forward by the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, and the President of Turkmenistan. In particular, he highlighted the “Peace through Development” initiative, which is based on the interconnection between peace, security, and sustainable socio-economic development. During the speech, special attention was also paid to the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC-3), held in Turkmenistan in August last year. Participants of the forum discussed issues related to security, transport, energy, and climate change. Rashid Meredov called for the implementation of the Awaza Political Declaration and the ten-year Awaza Programme of Action for Landlocked Developing Countries. Particular attention was also given to the “Dialogue — Guarantee of Peace” initiative, which envisions resolving international issues through dialogue and cooperation. The minister also recalled that, at the initiative of Turkmenistan, the UN General Assembly declared 2025 the International Year of Peace and Trust. In addition, he noted the establishment of the University of Peace and Neutrality, which will train specialists in peacebuilding and preventive diplomacy. In conclusion, Turkmenistan reaffirmed its readiness to participate in international efforts aimed at strengthening peace, security, and sustainable development based on the principles of the UN Charter.
On May 26, Turkmenistan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Rashid Meredov, arrived in New York on a working visit to participate in the high-level open debate of the United Nations Security Council. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The meeting focused on adherence to the goals and principles of the UN Charter, as well as strengthening the international system based on the central role of the United Nations. As part of the visit, bilateral meetings are scheduled. The parties will discuss issues on the international agenda related to maintaining peace and security, developing multilateral cooperation, and strengthening the role of the UN in contemporary international relations.
President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov received congratulatory messages on the occasion of Kurban Bayram from a number of foreign leaders. This was reported by AsmanNews. Congratulatory messages were sent to the head of state by President of the Republic of Türkiye Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, President of the Republic of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon, President of the Kyrgyz Republic Sadyr Japarov, President of the United Arab Emirates Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, King of Bahrain Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, Emir of the State of Kuwait Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, and President of the State of Palestine Mahmoud Abbas. In their messages, the heads of state wished the President of Turkmenistan good health and success, and wished the Turkmen people peace, well-being, and prosperity. Several leaders also highlighted the importance of Kurban Bayram as a holiday based on the values of humanity, mercy, mutual assistance, and unity. The congratulatory messages emphasized the development of friendly and brotherly relations between Turkmenistan and foreign countries.
President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov congratulated the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and the people of the country on Azerbaijan’s Independence Day. This was reported by TDH. In his congratulatory message, the head of state noted Azerbaijan’s development in the fields of economy, infrastructure, and culture, as well as its role in strengthening international cooperation. The President of Turkmenistan emphasized that Turkmen-Azerbaijani relations, based on the principles of good neighborliness, friendship, and mutual understanding, continue to develop consistently. Readiness for further cooperation in the interests of the two peoples was also reaffirmed. President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov wished President Ilham Aliyev good health and success, and wished the people of Azerbaijan peace, well-being, and prosperity.
The 25th International Multi-Industry Exhibition and Conference “White City Ashgabat – 2026” was held in Ashgabat. The forum was dedicated to architecture, innovation, and sustainable development, according to the publication “Turkmenistan: The Golden Age”. On the sidelines of the forum, Erfan Ali, Director of the Regional Office of UN-Habitat for Eastern Europe and Central Asia, spoke about prospects for cooperation with Turkmenistan. According to him, the parties are working on a comprehensive partnership programme in the field of sustainable urban development. Key areas of the programme were discussed during the conference. Priorities include urban planning development, support for climate initiatives, improvement of energy efficiency, modernization of public utilities, and the introduction of Smart City digital solutions. Erfan Ali said that UN-Habitat representatives held meetings at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, the Ministry of Energy, the Ministry of Construction and Architecture, as well as at the Ashgabat city administration to discuss future projects. The UN representative noted that the forum served as a platform for exchanging experience in sustainable development and discussing issues related to the modern urban environment.
A meeting between the Prosecutor General of Turkmenistan, Begmurat Muhamedov, and the Executive Secretary of the Coordinating Council of Prosecutors General of the CIS member states, Yuri Zhdanov, took place in Ashgabat. This was reported by IIC. During the talks, the Turkmen side was invited to the 36th meeting of the Coordinating Council of Prosecutors General of the CIS, which will be held on September 30 – October 1, 2026, in Kazan. The parties discussed cooperation between the prosecution services of CIS countries in the fields of security and sustainable development, as well as joint activities during Turkmenistan’s CIS chairmanship in 2026. Begmurat Muhamedov also expressed interest in the agenda of the 14th St. Petersburg International Legal Forum, which will take place on June 24–26, 2026. In addition, the Prosecutor General of Turkmenistan received an invitation to the 24th meeting of the Prosecutors General of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization member states. The meeting will be held in Kazan following the CIS Prosecutors General Coordinating Council session.
The XXV International Multi-profile Exhibition and Conference “White City Ashgabat – 2026” has concluded in Ashgabat. The forum was dedicated to architectural innovation and sustainable development. This was reported by the publication “Turkmenistan: Golden Age”. On the sidelines of the forum, the Director-General of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), Francesco La Camera, spoke about prospects for cooperation with Turkmenistan in the field of green energy. According to him, the country’s climatic conditions create strong opportunities for the development of solar energy. He noted that more than 200 sunny days per year make Turkmenistan a promising location for renewable energy projects. The head of IRENA emphasized that the development of renewable energy is linked not only to environmental goals but also to economic benefits. In his view, the renewable energy sector contributes to job creation and the growth of related industries. Francesco La Camera also stated IRENA’s readiness to cooperate with relevant institutions in Turkmenistan. The agency intends to provide expert and technological support for projects aimed at developing a sustainable energy system in the country.