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Turkmenistan strengthened its international ties in 2025
14.02.2026President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov has made 15 state, official, and working visits to countries in Asia, Europe, and the United States, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister of Foreign Affairs R. Meredov announced at an expanded meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers on February 13. This was reported by TDH. The Foreign Affairs Ministry noted that during the year, the tasks of the Concept of Foreign Policy of a Neutral State for 2022-2028 were implemented, and partnerships with international organisations were strengthened. In 2025, the country held 573 online meetings and 2,794 official negotiations with foreign states and international structures, and the international legal framework was supplemented with 264 documents. Inter-ministerial consultations and meetings were held with the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and the European Commissioner for International Cooperation. Letters of credence were presented to new ambassadors to Turkmenistan from 19 countries, and Turkmenistan sent 13 ambassadors and two consuls abroad. Fourteen meetings of bilateral inter-governmental commissions and major international events were organised, including the Third UN Conference for Landlocked Developing Countries and the International Conference on the Role of Women in Modern Society. Particular attention was paid to the International Forum in Ashgabat, timed to coincide with the International Year of Peace and Trust, International Neutrality Day and the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's Permanent Neutrality.
The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan held 22 exhibitions and 10 conferences in 2025
14.02.2026The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan held 22 exhibitions and 10 conferences in 2025, Deputy Prime Minister N. Atagulyev said at an extended meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers dedicated to the country's performance over the past year and plans for 2026. The information was published by TDH. According to the Deputy Prime Minister, trade turnover increased by 18.8% compared to 2024, and production increased by 1%. The Ministry of Textile Industry ensured growth of 6.3%, including cotton yarn – 11.7%, fabrics – 18.8%, and leather products – 11.4%. The state association ‘Türkmenhaly’ exceeded its plan by 102.2%. The State Commodity and Raw Materials Exchange held 299 auctions with almost 30,000 contracts registered, and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry ensured a 4% increase in work performed. The Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs increased the output of agricultural and food products by 8.1% and industrial goods by 6.7%. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov stressed that the key priorities remain the strengthening of trade and economic ties, the growth of high-quality production and the provision of food security.
Turkmen tennis players won two gold medals at the tournament in Manama
14.02.2026Turkmen tennis players won two gold medals at the first Western and Central Asia Junior Championships for players under 14, which concluded in Manama (Bahrain). This was reported by the state news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. Representatives from 13 countries participated in the ITF Asia 14&U Development Championships (West & Central Asia). Turkmenistan was represented by four athletes. In the singles competition, 12-year-old Nazli Hudaykuliyeva from Ashgabat School No. 87 won the title. In the final, she defeated Jordan's Ayasofia Gokashau in three sets, 0-6, 6-1, 6-3. In the doubles, Nazli Hudaykuliyeva and 12-year-old Sulgun Ishankuliyeva won the final against athletes from Lebanon 6:3, 7:5. Earlier, both tennis players successfully competed in the international category ‘A’ tournament in Isa Town (Bahrain). At that time, Sulgun Ishankuliyeva and Jordanian A. Gokashau won silver in doubles, while Nazli Hudaykuliyeva was among the top four in singles. Nazli trains under the guidance of Meylis Orazmuhammedov and Yuri Rogussky. Sulgun is a student of ‘Jahan’ Creativity Center and trains with distinguished coach Jennet Hallyeva, and in the national team under the guidance of Yuri Rogussky. The results of the second tournament of the West and Central Asia Championship for juniors under 14 will be announced in the coming days.
The President of Turkmenistan summarised the economic results and outlined the objectives for 2026
14.02.2026At an extended meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov summed up the country's performance in 2025 and outlined priorities for 2026. The Head of State noted that significant progress had been made due to the hard work of the people in the International Year of Peace and Trust, all planned targets had been met, and the pace of economic development remained high, reports AsmanNews. According to the President of Turkmenistan, GDP growth was 6.3%, with industry adding 1.8%, trade 9.6% and agriculture 7%. The volume of investment increased by 6%, and about 7,000 new jobs were created in large and medium-sized enterprises. Over the past year, 116 industrial and socio-cultural facilities and 645,000 square metres of housing were commissioned. Construction of the second phase of the Arkadag ‘smart’ city continued, and farmers ensured the country's food security. As part of international activities, a number of events were held to mark the International Year of Peace and Trust, as well as the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's legal status of neutrality. On International Neutrality Day, a forum was held with the participation of Heads of State and leaders of international organisations, at which important resolutions and documents were adopted that strengthened the country's authority. The President of Turkmenistan recalled that 2026 has been declared ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’. This motto sets the direction for work and places responsibility on all members of the Cabinet of Ministers and participants in the meeting. It inspires us to enhance the country's authority and further prosperity of the Motherland, the Head of State emphasised. In accordance with the Socio-Economic Development and Investment Programme for 2026, it is planned to commission more than 900,000 square metres of housing, open general education institutions with 3,380 places and pre-school institutions with 1,080 places. Construction of new residential areas, shopping centres, public service buildings, as well as cultural and medical facilities will begin in the capital and velayats. Among them are the International Paediatrics Centre, the Scientific and Clinical Oncology Centre, the Dental Centre, and the Archman sanatorium complex with 400 places. The President of Turkmenistan emphasised that a number of international events related to the motto of the year will be held during the year. A State Organising Committee has been set up to ensure a high level of preparation and implementation of all planned events. The Head of State also noted that the programme for 2026 includes a huge amount of work. He expressed confidence that through united and selfless work, together with the people, all the planned milestones and goals will be achieved.
Turkmenistan's participation in ‘EXPO 2030’ discussed in Riyadh
14.02.2026The Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to Saudi Arabia, Muhammetgeldi Ayazov, held a meeting with the Head of the department for work with interested countries of the ‘EXPO 2030 Riyadh’ company, Mohammed Bin Garad. This was reported by the online publication ‘Business Turkmenistan’. During the meeting, the interlocutors discussed Turkmenistan's participation in the ‘EXPO 2030’ World Exhibition. The exhibition will be held in Riyadh from October 2030 to March 2031. The parties emphasised that the country's participation will strengthen its international authority, promote achievements in various fields and expand trade and economic ties.
‘Rönesans’ aims to further develop its activities in Turkmenistan
13.02.2026The Turkish company ‘Rönesans’ has been operating in Turkmenistan since 2010, implementing a number of major projects in the field of civil construction and industrial infrastructure. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. According to the company's department head, Yigit Unsal, during this time, projects have been completed in the Mary and Lebap velayats, as well as in Ashgabat, significant experience has been gained, and strong partnerships have been built with local organisations and suppliers. The company is currently working on four projects: servicing a previously built facility in Lebap, reconstructing a facility implemented by another company, building a shopping and entertainment centre next to the ‘Garagum’ Hotel near the capital's airport, and constructing an additional block as part of the ‘JTG’ project, one of the key projects for ‘Rönesans’ in the region. The company intends to expand its presence in Turkmenistan, is developing new initiatives and strengthening cooperation with local partners. ‘Rönesans’ also took part in an Exhibition of Turkish Export Goods in Ashgabat, which, according to Y. Unsal, helped to strengthen business contacts and develop Turkmen-Turkish economic cooperation.
Turkmen film ‘The Composer’ to be shown in Ankara
13.02.2026On 17 February, the film ‘The Composer’ by the Oguzhan ‘Turkmenfilm’ Association will be screened at the Yashar Kemal Cultural Centre (İnce Memed Hall) in Ankara. The event is organised by the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Turkey in cooperation with the International Organisation of Turkic Culture (TURKSOY), according to IIC. The film has already received international recognition. In November 2025, the first ‘Diamond Butterfly’ Award ceremony was held in Moscow at Nikita Mihalkov's Masterskaya ‘12’ theatre. Turkmen artist Meylis Hudayberenov was nominated for ‘Best Artist’ for his work on the film ‘The Composer’. The prize fund for this category was $250,000.
Turkmenistan and Romania aim to deepen inter-state relations
13.02.2026On 11 February, the Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Romania, A. Annayev, met with the State Secretary of the Romanian Foreign Affairs Ministry, Ana Tinca, at the Romanian Foreign Affairs Ministry. This was reported by the press service of the Turkmenistan Foreign Affairs Ministry. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of Turkmen-Romanian relations, noting their steady development based on mutual respect and trust. They emphasised their mutual interest in further strengthening political dialogue. Particular attention was paid to cooperation in the trade, economic and transport spheres, inter-parliamentary relations, as well as consular cooperation issues. The parties confirmed their readiness to make more active use of existing dialogue mechanisms. In addition, issues of multilateral cooperation and Turkmenistan's international initiatives aimed at strengthening peace, security and sustainable development were discussed. Following the meeting, mutual openness to further expansion of cooperation and continuation of constructive dialogue was confirmed.
The coach of Saudi Arabia's ‘Al-Nassr’ praised the hospitality of Turkmenistan
13.02.2026After the match against Turkmenistan's ‘Arkadag’ (1-0 in favour of the Saudi team), ‘Al-Nassr’ Head Coach Jorge Jesus praised Turkmenistan's hospitality and the high quality of the Olympic Stadium, which seats 45,000 spectators and is the largest in Central Asia. This was reported by the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. ‘I would like to thank all the participants and fans. You have a wonderful country, friendly people and a magnificent stadium with excellent conditions for football. I am glad that the match went well for us,’ said Jesus. When asked about the team's chances of winning the AFC Champions League 2, the Portuguese coach emphasised: ‘Every match is important to us. ‘Al-Nassr’s goal is to win the tournament, but qualification for the next round is not yet guaranteed. There is a return match in Riyadh, we respect our opponents and are preparing thoroughly.’ Journalists were also interested in whether the second team or the star players would play in the return match. ‘I can't guarantee anything in advance. First, we have another Saudi Arabian league match against ‘Al-Fateh’ on 14 February,’ the coach explained. Abdullah Al-Hamdan, who scored the only goal and was named MVP of the match, shared his impressions: ‘Thank you for the warm welcome in Turkmenistan. The game was difficult, but the main thing is the victory. ‘Arkadag’ is a strong team, and we have another match in Riyadh ahead of us. I hope it will also end successfully’. The return match between ‘Arkadag’ and ‘Al-Nassr’ will take place on 18 February in Riyadh.
Ashgabat expands foreign policy agenda for 2026
13.02.2026In 2026, under the motto ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses,’ Turkmenistan continues to pursue a constructive foreign policy based on the principles of neutrality, peacefulness and equal partnership. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. As noted, Turkmenistan's foreign policy strategy is aimed at expanding cooperation with all interested states and international organisations. Last year, declared the International Year of Peace and Trust and timed to coincide with the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's neutrality, the country initiated a number of UN General Assembly resolutions, including on the Decade of Sustainable Transport (2026-2035) and on energy interconnectivity. These documents became the basis for the development of the international transport and energy architecture. The working plan of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan for 2026, approved by the President of Turkmenistan, provides for political, diplomatic, trade, economic and humanitarian activities, as well as active work on the implementation of initiatives put forward at the 80th session of the UN General Assembly. Particular attention is paid to cooperation with international structures, including the WTO, OECD, International Energy Agency, IRENA, as well as relevant UN structures — UNCTAD, ESCAP and ECE. Among the priorities is the expansion of partnership with the International Labour Organisation. The authorities intend to extend the Roadmap for Cooperation with the ILO until the end of 2026, focusing on the prevention of forced labour, the improvement of legislation and the protection of labour rights. One of Turkmenistan's key international initiatives was the proposal to declare 2028 the ‘Year of International Law’. Preparations for this will begin in 2026 in conjunction with the United Nations Office of Legal Affairs. An active economic agenda was presented in January at SPECA Week in Ashgabat, where issues of energy, transport, trade, digitalisation and the ‘green’ economy were discussed. Cooperation with UNICEF, FAO and other specialised UN agencies continues. In January, FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu visited Ashgabat, and following the visit, an Agreement was signed to open an FAO office in Turkmenistan. In 2026, Turkmenistan will also chair the Consultative Meeting of Heads of State of Central Asia and the CIS, which will expand opportunities for regional dialogue. As emphasised, Turkmenistan's foreign policy activities are aimed at strengthening peace, sustainable development and expanding international partnerships.
Turkmen-Japanese cooperation in science and technology reaches new level
13.02.2026On 9 February, Turkmenistan's Ambassador to Japan, A. Bayramov, held a meeting with the President of the Turkmen-Japanese Science and Technology Association, H. Koinuma, and representatives of Japanese companies cooperating with the association. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The event discussed the prospects for further development of scientific and technological cooperation between Turkmenistan and Japan, as well as opportunities for new Japanese companies in this field to enter the Turkmen market. Particular attention was paid to proposals from ‘Tohkemy Corporation’ to introduce water purification technologies and equipment in Turkmenistan. In addition, the meeting participants familiarised themselves with the capabilities of ‘Sustec’ and ‘Carbon Cryo Capture Co., Ltd’, companies specialising in high-precision quantum-sensitive exploration technologies for searching for underground resources and carbon dioxide separation systems in the liquefied gas industry.
The MFA of Turkmenistan discussed strengthening cooperation with Switzerland
13.02.2026On 12 February, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Myahri Byashimova held a meeting with Thomas Stähli, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Swiss Confederation to Turkmenistan (resident in Baku), at the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of bilateral cooperation, noting the importance of further constructive and mutually respectful dialogue. Particular attention was paid to cooperation in international and regional organisations, including the UN. During the meeting, the diplomats discussed the development of trade, economic, cultural and humanitarian ties, as well as plans for joint events in 2026.
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