News
Turkmenistan and Afghanistan have reaffirmed their close historical ties
13.08.2026The National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, held bilateral negotiations with Abdul Ghani Baradar, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Afghanistan for Economic Affairs. This was reported by the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. During the meeting, the Afghan side emphasised that the good-neighbourly relations between the two states are based on shared cultural and spiritual values, as well as the close historical ties between the Turkmen and Afghan peoples. Abdul Ghani Baradar noted that Turkmenistan’s peaceful foreign policy contributes to sustainable development in the region, and expressed his gratitude for the regular humanitarian aid provided to Afghanistan by the Turkmen side.
A conference on the protection of the Caspian ecosystem has begun in Turkmenistan
13.08.2026A scientific and practical conference entitled ‘Protection of the Caspian Sea Ecosystem: Regional Cooperation and Sustainable Development’, held to mark Caspian Sea Day, has begun at the ‘Berkarar’ Hotel in the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. The forum is being attended by specialists, environmentalists, experts and representatives of international organisations. They are discussing issues relating to the conservation of the Caspian Sea ecosystem, the protection of biodiversity, the prevention of pollution and adaptation to climate change. The conference opened with the reading of a welcome address from the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov. The message was read out by Foreign Affairs Minister Rashid Meredov. The message highlighted the importance of strengthening inter-state cooperation, implementing the Caspian Environmental Initiative and ensuring the region’s sustainable development. Conference participants are considering joint approaches to environmental protection, the development of scientific research and the conservation of the Caspian Sea’s natural potential.
The MFA of Malaysia discussed cooperation with Turkmenistan with PETRONAS
12.08.2026On 10 August 2026, Dato' Syed Mohamad Hasrin Tengku Hussin, Deputy Secretary-General for Bilateral Affairs at the Malaysian Foreign Affairs Ministry, received Ismadi Ismail, Managing Director of PETRONAS Carigali (Turkmenistan) Sdn. Bhd. (PC(T)SB), on a courtesy visit. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The parties discussed PETRONAS’s main areas of activity in Turkmenistan, as well as the progress made in implementing bilateral agreements in the oil and gas sector, which were reached during the Malaysian Prime Minister’s official visit to Turkmenistan. Particular attention was paid to the participation of Malaysian companies in the 31st International Exhibition and Conference ‘Oil and Gas of Turkmenistan’ (OGT 2026).
Turkmenistan and ASEAN: The Malaysian Embassy as a bridge between the regions
12.08.2026The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has marked the 59th anniversary of its founding. The group, established on 8 August 1967 by five member states, now comprises 11 countries with a combined population of around 700 million people. The Philippines, which holds the chairmanship in 2026, is marking the year under the motto ‘Navigating Our Future, Together’, with a focus on strengthening security, expanding economic corridors and promoting integration, reports the news agency Orient. The celebrations coincided with the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia, signed in Bali in 1976. The principles of mutual respect for sovereignty, non-interference in internal affairs and the peaceful settlement of disputes have transformed the treaty from a regional document into an international platform for dialogue. Malaysia has traditionally regarded ASEAN as the cornerstone of its foreign policy. The culmination of Malaysia’s recent chairmanship of the organisation was the adoption of the Kuala Lumpur Declaration ‘ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future’, which set out the framework for the bloc’s development up to 2045. In the economic sphere, ASEAN aims to become one of the world’s four largest economies by 2030; this is set to be facilitated by the conclusion of negotiations on the Framework Agreement on the Digital Economy, which is scheduled to be signed at the end of 2026. Speaking at a ceremony in Putrajaya, Malaysia’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Dato’ Seri Mohamad Hasan, emphasised that, amidst competition between major powers, ASEAN must maintain its central role and autonomy. The Malaysian Embassy in Ashgabat remains the only permanent diplomatic mission of an ASEAN member state in Turkmenistan. The diplomatic mission serves as a channel for communication and information on the bloc’s opportunities for Turkmenistan’s government bodies, business circles and academic communities. The Malaysian diplomatic mission notes Turkmenistan’s growing interest in developing ties with South-East Asia, highlighting trade and investment, transport infrastructure, energy, education, tourism, digitalisation and cultural and humanitarian exchanges as promising areas for cooperation. Deepening this dialogue is intended to build lasting bridges between Central and South-East Asia.
Turkmen gas workers are entering the final stage of the TAPI pipeline’s construction
12.08.2026Construction of the 153-kilometre ‘Serhetabat–Herat’ gas pipeline — a key section of the ‘Turkmenistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan–India’ (TAPI) project, known as ‘Arkadagyň ak ýoly’ — is nearing completion. This was reported by the online publication ‘Business Turkmenistan’. Surveying work along the route has been fully completed. The technical design documentation and construction drawings have been prepared in accordance with international standards. 120 kilometres of 1,422-millimetre-diameter pipes, out of the total required for the entire route, have been delivered to the construction site, and deliveries are continuing. Of the 25 contracts for the project’s logistical support, the majority have been fully executed. The bulk of the certified equipment has cleared customs and been delivered to the site in Afghanistan. Around 300 units of specialised machinery are being used in the construction and installation works. The route of the gas pipeline has been surveyed over a distance of 140 km, and a 123-km-long access road has been constructed. Welding and installation work on the pipeline has been completed over a distance of 117 km, and the welded sections are undergoing hydraulic pressure testing in stages. The necessary facilities have been provided for workers involved in the construction: temporary accommodation camps No. 1 and No. 2 have been built at the 12th and 86th kilometres of the gas pipeline.
Turkmenistan is strengthening its transport and transit capacity
12.08.2026Turkmenistan is continuing to modernise its transport and communications infrastructure and to develop international transport and transit corridors. The main focus is on increasing passenger and freight traffic, expanding the capacity of transport systems and improving the quality of services, according to the news agency TDH. At an extended meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers on 10 July to review the results of the first half of the year, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov emphasised the need to further improve the transport and communications sector. As part of the ‘Programme for the Socio-Economic Development of Turkmenistan and Investment in 2026’, the reconstruction of roads connecting the country’s regions and neighbouring states is continuing. Particular attention is being paid to rail transport. The rolling stock is being modernised, and diesel locomotives, passenger carriages, tankers and specialised carriages for the transport of various goods are being procured. One of the priorities remains the modernisation of the ‘Ashgabat–Turkmenbashi’ railway line, which links the country’s regions with the Turkmenbashi International Seaport and the ‘Lapis Lazuli’, ‘TRACECA’, ‘North–South’ and ‘East–West’ international corridors. The modernisation of road infrastructure is continuing. A major project has been the 600-kilometre ‘Ashgabat–Turkmenabat’ motorway. Construction began on 24 January 2019 and was carried out in three sections: ‘Ashgabat–Tejen’, ‘Tejen–Mary’ and ‘Mary–Turkmenabat’. The final section was opened on 10 April 2026 in the presence of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov. Transport infrastructure is also being developed in the west of the country. As part of the ‘Turkmenbashi–Garabogaz–Kazakhstan’ border road, a 207-kilometre section is currently under construction. A 354-metre-long road bridge has also been built across Garabogaz Kol Bay. These projects are aimed at expanding regional transport links and transit capacity. The Ministry of Road Transport of Turkmenistan continues to strengthen its material and technical base and improve the quality of passenger services. At the same time, work is underway to bring national legislation in the field of road transport into line with international standards. Civil aviation plays an important role in the transport system. The country’s aircraft fleet is being renewed, specialist personnel are being trained and airports are being modernised. ‘Turkmenistan’s National Civil Aviation Development Programme up to 2030’ provides for the introduction of modern technologies and international best practice. Turkmenbashi International Airport has undergone a major refurbishment, whilst a new international airport has been built and brought into operation in Balkanabat. At the same time, measures are being taken to expand the transit capacity of the airports. ‘Turkmenistan’s State Programme for Ensuring Civil Aviation Flight Safety’ sets out the main directions of state policy in this area, taking into account the international standards of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). In addition, the development of maritime transport is continuing. Port infrastructure is being modernised, freight and passenger traffic volumes are increasing, and safety and navigation systems are being improved. At the ‘Balkan’ Shipbuilding and Ship Repair Yard, domestic and foreign vessels are being repaired, and ships are being built for the national fleet. The plant has built and commissioned the dry cargo vessel ‘Gadamly’ – the first of its kind in the country. At the same time, the communications sector is being improved. At an extended meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers to review the results of the first six months of 2026, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov highlighted the need to modernise the sector and introduce new types of services. By a Resolution of the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, the ‘State Programme for the Development of the Digital Economy in Turkmenistan for 2026–2028’ and the Action Plan for its implementation have been approved. The documents provide for the wider application of information and communication technologies and innovations, the improvement of the quality of public services, the development of entrepreneurship and the creation of a digital ecosystem. One of the priority areas of digitalisation is artificial intelligence. Pilot projects are being implemented in Turkmenistan to apply AI in education, healthcare, agriculture and traffic management. Developments are also underway in the fields of big data, blockchain and cybersecurity. Work is continuing to improve the telecommunications infrastructure and the legal framework governing information and communications services. Following the launch of the country’s first national satellite, opportunities for the development of satellite communications, television and radio broadcasting have expanded. Work is underway on a programme of cooperation with foreign states and international organisations to ensure the cybersecurity of the digital system for the period 2025–2027. Particular attention is being paid to increasing the capacity of international communication channels and diversifying telephone traffic and data transmission. Opportunities are being explored to expand connections with neighbouring states and increase the transit of information flows between Asia and Europe. Turkmenistan also continues to put forward initiatives on the development of transport corridors and communications systems at international forums and high-level meetings. The implementation of projects in the transport, communications and digital sectors is aimed at enhancing the country’s transit potential, expanding international links and establishing a modern transport and communications infrastructure.
The President of Turkmenistan addressed the conference participants on Caspian Day
12.08.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, has sent a message of greeting to the participants of the scientific and practical conference ‘Protection of the Caspian Sea Ecosystem: Regional Cooperation and Sustainable Development’, held to mark Caspian Sea Day. This was reported by the TDH news agency. The Head of State noted the importance of the Caspian Sea for the development of trade, economic, cultural and humanitarian ties between the littoral states. Serdar Berdimuhamedov emphasised Turkmenistan’s role in strengthening regional cooperation and developing international partnerships in the field of marine environmental protection. The message highlighted the First Caspian Summit in Ashgabat in 2002, the First Caspian Environmental Forum in the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone in 2012, the First Caspian Economic Forum in 2019 and the Sixth Caspian Summit on 29 June 2022. The President of Turkmenistan also emphasised the importance of the Turkmenbashi International Seaport for the development of international transport routes. Serdar Berdimuhamedov highlighted the need to join forces in combating climate change, protecting water resources and preventing marine pollution. In this context, he highlighted Turkmenistan’s Caspian Environmental Initiative as an important area of cooperation. The President of Turkmenistan expressed his confidence that the conference would contribute to the protection and study of the Caspian Sea’s natural resources, the improvement of the environment and the further development of cooperation between the Caspian states.
A joint training camp for cyclists from Turkmenistan and the UAE is taking place in Ashgabat
12.08.2026Joint training camps involving the Turkmenistan national cycling team and representatives of the ‘Abu Dhabi’ club from the United Arab Emirates are continuing in Ashgabat. The athletes are carrying out training sessions and tactical drills at the Olympic Village, according to the IIC of Turkmenistan. As part of the programme, the foreign athletes underwent medical examinations at the Health and Rehabilitation Centre. Specialists carried out complete blood counts and electrocardiograms, assessing the athletes’ physical condition and their adaptation to training loads. Based on the results of the examinations, individual recommendations were drawn up for the athletes to adjust their training programmes. Representatives of the UAE delegation also noted the infrastructure of the Olympic Village, the medical care and the climatic conditions in Ashgabat. The joint training camp is aimed at developing international sporting cooperation and preparing athletes for upcoming competitions.
A portrait of Nury Halmamedov has been in the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts for 60 years
12.08.2026The State Museum of Fine Arts of Turkmenistan houses the painting ‘Portrait of the Composer Nury Halmamedov’ by Mamed Mamedov, an Honoured Artist of Turkmenistan. In 2026, the work will celebrate its 60th anniversary, according to the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The portrait holds a special place amongst the numerous works of art dedicated to Nury Halmamedov. In the painting, the composer is depicted against a rural landscape, leaning against an old mulberry tree. His bright red shirt contrasts with the autumnal colours of nature and serves as a compositional focal point of the painting. Art historian and Honoured Worker of Culture of Turkmenistan Azat Annayev notes that the work is open to two interpretations. According to the first, the artist captured the composer in a moment of creative reflection. The second is linked to the recollections of Yevgeny Mikhelson, an Honoured Artist of Turkmenistan, who recounted how Nury Halmamedov stood in the courtyard, leaning against a tree, whilst awaiting the admissions committee’s decision. According to Azat Annayev, Mamed Mamedov portrayed the composer not only as an outstanding musician, but also as a man deeply invested in his creative work. The image of the mulberry tree in the painting also takes on symbolic significance, evoking notions of resilience and vitality. Mamed Mamedov and Nury Halmamedov were born in 1938. Both were brought up in a children’s home and received higher education at art universities in Russia. In 1964, Mamed Mamedov graduated from the I. Repin Leningrad Institute of Painting, Sculpture and Architecture and returned to Turkmenistan. In the 1960s, the artist became one of the leading figures of a new generation of Turkmen painters. He was a member of the ‘Magnificent Seven’ – a group of seven Turkmen painters so named by the art historian Galina Saurova. Mamed Mamedov’s works are on display at the State Museum of Fine Arts of Turkmenistan. These include ‘Prayer for Water’, ‘Wedding’, ‘Conversation about the Universe’, ‘Karakum’ and other pieces. Among these, ‘Portrait of the Composer Nury Halmamedov’ is considered one of the artist’s most famous works. Six decades on, the painting continues to hold its place in the museum’s exhibition, portraying the image of the outstanding Turkmen composer through a combination of portraiture and symbols of his native landscape.
Ashgabat and Kabul discussed the development of the ‘Lapis Lazuli’ corridor
12.08.2026On 10 August, as part of a working visit to Afghanistan, the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, discussed the development of the ‘Lapis Lazuli’ international transport corridor with Abdul Ghani Baradar, Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs of Afghanistan. This was reported by TDH. The parties noted the corridor’s importance for expanding transport and transit links between Central and South Asia, as well as the regions of the Caspian, Black and Mediterranean Seas. An agreement on the establishment of the ‘Afghanistan–Turkmenistan–Azerbaijan–Georgia–Turkey’ route was signed in Ashgabat in 2017. Turkmenistan had previously proposed measures to improve the corridor’s efficiency, including the creation of a Single Logistics Centre, the development of infrastructure at cargo dispatch and reception points, the harmonisation of tariff policies, the simplification of customs procedures based on the ‘Single Window’ principle, and the preparation of a digital atlas of the route.
Turkmenistan and Saudi Arabia discussed the development of bilateral relations
12.08.2026On 11 August, a meeting took place at the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan between Ahmet Gurbanov, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan, and Amer bin Ali Al-Shehri, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Turkmenistan. This was reported by the press office of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The parties reviewed the state of and prospects for Turkmen-Saudi relations, as well as issues of bilateral and multilateral cooperation. Particular attention was paid to political and diplomatic dialogue and the expansion of trade and economic cooperation. The participants also discussed cooperation within the framework of international organisations and current issues on the international and regional agenda. Following the meeting, the parties reaffirmed their readiness to continue regular contacts and joint efforts to strengthen friendly relations between Turkmenistan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The EU Delegation to Turkmenistan organised a ‘Back to School’ campaign
12.08.2026The Delegation of the European Union to Turkmenistan, in collaboration with the non-governmental organisation ‘Ýeňme’ and the Turkmenistan Centre for the Support of People with Disabilities, organised a ‘Back to School’ charity campaign. This was reported by the Orient news agency. The initiative is now in its fifth consecutive year and aims to support children with disabilities and those from socially vulnerable families ahead of the new school year. As part of the event, EU Ambassador Beata Peksa and staff from the diplomatic mission met with the children and presented them with school rucksacks containing essential school supplies. An interactive programme featuring games, music and competitions was also organised for the participants. ‘Always be curious, ask lots of questions, and never stop learning,’ said Beata Peksa. The EU Delegation to Turkmenistan continues to support inclusive education, equal opportunities for children and the activities of local civil society organisations.
Read also
Advertising
Read us in Zen
