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Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan discussed expanding economic cooperation
21.05.2026Within the framework of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku, a meeting was held between the Chairman of the State Committee for Construction of Arkadag City under the President of Turkmenistan, Deryageldy Orazov, and Azerbaijan’s Minister of Economy, Mikayil Jabbarov. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The sides discussed the current state and prospects of economic cooperation, including investment, transport, logistics, and transit. Special attention was given to possible expansion of cooperation in trade, energy, and other areas. The Azerbaijani side noted the importance of the Turkmen delegation’s visit and confirmed its interest in further developing the partnership. The WUF13 forum is taking place in Baku from May 17 to 22, 2026, under the auspices of UN-Habitat and the Government of Azerbaijan, and is dedicated to sustainable urban development.
Turkmen–Russian archaeological cooperation enters a new stage
21.05.2026Turkmenistan, through which the Great Silk Road once passed, has since ancient times served as a connecting link between East and West and was one of the cradles of early civilizations. For more than 50 years, its archaeological heritage has been actively studied by Soviet and Russian researchers, who have made a significant contribution to the formation of a scientific school and the training of local specialists, according to the IIC. Among the key sites is Gonur Depe, the largest settlement of ancient Margiana, where excavations have uncovered unique architectural complexes, the earliest mosaics, and early evidence of horse domestication, confirming the high level of this civilization. An equally important discovery was the settlement of Yylgynly Depe, where workshops for producing clay figurines were found, reshaping views on the development of crafts in the prehistoric period. Significant results were also obtained from the study of Old Nisa, the center of the Parthian Kingdom, where royal archives and ritual vessels were discovered. Today, cooperation between Russia and Turkmenistan continues: restoration work is underway, findings are being systematized, and joint exhibition projects are being prepared aimed at popularizing the ancient heritage of the region.
“Daewoo E&C” confirms participation in the “White City Ashgabat – 2026” forum
21.05.2026The 25th International Exhibition and Conference “White City Ashgabat – 2026” (WCA 2026), which will take place on May 24–25, 2026, in Ashgabat, is expanding international cooperation. The South Korean company Daewoo Engineering & Construction has joined the event as a gold sponsor, according to the news agency “Turkmenistan: Golden Age”. The forum, held under the motto “Architecture. Innovation. Sustainable Development,” will bring together representatives of government bodies, developers, investors, and engineers to discuss sustainable urban development, industrial modernization, and next-generation infrastructure. Daewoo E&C’s participation further strengthens the international status of WCA 2026 as a platform for strategic dialogue and exchange of engineering solutions in construction, energy, and infrastructure. Founded in 1973, Daewoo E&C is a major EPC company of the Republic of Korea with experience in implementing infrastructure, industrial, and energy projects across various regions of the world, including Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. In Turkmenistan, the company is involved in a number of major projects, supporting industrial infrastructure modernization and development processes. As part of the forum’s business program, a company representative will speak in a panel session dedicated to industrial development and supply chains in construction. Participants will discuss the development of building materials production, industrial digitalization, the implementation of Industry 4.0 technologies, as well as issues of localization and the resilience of production chains. As of today, more than 650 delegates from 55 countries have confirmed their participation in WCA 2026. The forum continues to strengthen its position as one of the key regional platforms for investment and technological cooperation in the field of construction and infrastructure.
Turkmenistan’s ambassador to the EU holds meeting with Spain’s permanent representative
21.05.2026Turkmenistan’s Ambassador to the European Union, Sapar Palvanov, held a meeting with Spain’s Permanent Representative to the EU, Marcos Alonso. The parties discussed the implementation of the EU–Central Asia cooperation strategy, as well as strengthening interregional ties, according to the IIC. The sides outlined medium-term priorities, including the development of transport corridors, energy cooperation, collaboration in the field of critical raw materials, as well as climate and sustainability projects. A proposal was also made to establish an informal dialogue platform in Brussels for ambassadors of the EU and Central Asian countries to regularly discuss joint initiatives.
Turkmen artisans presented traditional crafts at a festival in Armenia
21.05.2026A delegation from Turkmenistan took part in the 5th International Crafts Festival, held on May 16–17 in the city of Meghri, Republic of Armenia. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. Turkmen artisans showcased traditional decorative and applied arts products. National jewelry, carpets, embroidery, and souvenir items attracted particular interest from visitors. As part of the festival, Turkmen bakhshi — performers of traditional folk music — also gave performances. The event was held under the slogan “Creative Community, Sustainable Future.” Craftsmen and artisans from Armenia, CIS countries, Georgia, and Iran participated in the festival.
Representatives of Turkmenistan discussed environmental initiatives at the OTS forum
21.05.2026On May 16, the II Forum on Cooperation of NGOs of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) was held in Baku as part of the “Baku Urban Planning Week.” The event brought together representatives of civil society, environmental organizations, and experts from OTS member countries, according to the news website Turkmenportal. Turkmenistan was represented at the forum by Mergen Kepbanov, Director of the Project Office of the Regional Environmental Centre for Central Asia (CAREC); Orazgul Isgenderova, Assistant at the CAREC Project Office; Berkeli Ataev, Director of the public organization “Tebigi Kuvvat”; and Mubarak Gurbanova, Director of the NGO “Taze Zaman.” During the forum, participants discussed issues related to sustainable development, ecology, urbanization, youth cooperation, and public diplomacy. Special attention was given to the First Azerbaijani-Turkmen Forum on NGO Cooperation, where prospects for joint environmental, educational, and humanitarian projects were considered. The Director of the CAREC Project Office in Turkmenistan emphasized the important role of NGOs in promoting sustainable development initiatives and international cooperation. At the Young NGO Leaders Forum, Orazgul Isgenderova presented the Central Asian Youth for Climate Leadership (CYCL) program implemented by CAREC with the support of the OSCE. At the conclusion of the event, participants confirmed their interest in expanding partnerships and cross-sector cooperation within the Turkic world.
Turkmenistan held a series of meetings at Education World Forum 2026 in London
21.05.2026At the Education World Forum 2026 in London, the Turkmen delegation led by Deputy Minister of Education of Turkmenistan Azat Ataev held a series of meetings focused on international cooperation. This was reported by the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan. During talks with Classera, the parties discussed a pilot project in the areas of analytics, personalized learning, and teacher support. Meetings with representatives of ClassLink focused on integrating educational data, managing access to digital platforms, and the use of analytical tools in the education system. At a meeting with Times Higher Education, participants discussed the possibility of selecting one of Turkmenistan’s universities for preparation to participate in international rankings. Discussions with Pearson covered the establishment of certification centers and the introduction of international qualification programs. During negotiations with Educational Testing Service (ETS), the sides exchanged experience in the field of educational assessment and testing. Representatives of the Project Management Institute proposed holding an introductory seminar in Turkmenistan on managing educational reforms and digital projects. Talks with Matific focused on implementing a pilot project to support mathematics education for schoolchildren. During meetings with the British Council, the parties reviewed the results and future prospects of the AELLCA project aimed at accelerating English language learning in Central Asia. Deputy Minister of Education of Turkmenistan Azat Ataev also met with the United Kingdom’s Secretary of State for Education and Minister for Women and Equalities, Bridget Phillipson. The sides discussed the development of Turkmen-British cooperation in the field of education.
Ashgabat and Beijing Strengthen Strategic Partnership
21.05.2026President of the People’s Republic of China Xi Jinping has accepted the invitation of the President of Turkmenistan to visit the country. In his reply message, the Chinese leader confirmed his readiness to arrive in Turkmenistan at a time convenient for both sides. This was reported by TDH. In a letter addressed to the President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov, Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of developing a comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries and expressed interest in maintaining close working contacts. The Chinese President also stressed that the Chinese side supports the expansion of mutually beneficial cooperation with Turkmenistan in various fields. According to him, proposals for new joint projects may be considered by the China–Turkmenistan Cooperation Committee. The message notes that relations between Turkmenistan and China have been steadily developing on the basis of mutual respect and equality. Recent high-level meetings held during the visit of the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov to China gave additional momentum to bilateral cooperation.
Turkmenistan discussed regional security issues at a meeting in Kazakhstan
20.05.2026Turkmenistan’s Minister of Internal Affairs, Muhammet Hydyrov, took part in the second meeting of heads of law enforcement agencies in the “Central Asia – China” format in Astana. This was reported by the IIC. The event was attended by China’s Minister of Public Security Wang Xiaohong, as well as the interior ministers of Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. The heads of delegations were received by the President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. The parties discussed regional security issues, coordination of law enforcement activities, and cooperation in the context of developing transport and trade corridors in Central Asia. Particular attention was paid to cybersecurity and preventing the use of information technologies for illegal purposes. Participants of the meeting confirmed their readiness to expand interstate cooperation, strengthen the exchange of operational information, and develop professional contacts to respond to cross-border threats.
Turkmenistan hosts the 44th session of the EAG
20.05.2026In Ashgabat, on May 19, the “Ýyldyz” Hotel hosted the 5th Forum of Parliamentarians of member states of the Eurasian Group on Combating Money Laundering and Financing of Terrorism (EAG). The event was held within the framework of the 44th session of the EAG, according to the TDH news agency. Forum participants discussed the development of national systems for combating money laundering and financing of terrorism, issues of interagency cooperation, and the improvement of legislation. At a meeting between the EAG Chair and the Minister of Finance and Economy of Turkmenistan, measures to enhance the effectiveness of the relevant system were reviewed. Special attention was paid to the work of the coordinating Interagency Working Group. Within the forum, a meeting of the Working Group on Technical Assistance for EAG member states was held. Participants summarized the results of current activities and outlined priority areas for further cooperation. A separate meeting was also held on mutual evaluations and legal aspects. The sides discussed mechanisms for combating money laundering and financing of terrorism, exchanged experience, and reviewed plans for joint work in the near future. It was noted that Turkmenistan participates in international conventions and UN programs to combat organized crime and terrorism, and also develops cooperation with foreign countries and relevant organizations. In addition, a general meeting of members of the International Association of Training and Methodological Centers of EAG member states took place. The focus was on reducing terrorist threats, as well as ensuring transparency and stability of financial systems. For guests of the forum, a cultural program was organized, including visits to the National Museum of Turkmen Carpet and the State Museum of the State Cultural Center of Turkmenistan. The work of the 44th session of the Eurasian Group continues.
Members of the Parliament of Turkmenistan visited the United States under the open world program
20.05.2026A delegation of Turkmen parliamentarians visited the United States as part of the Open World program. During the visit, they met with U.S. House of Representatives member Sydney Kamlager-Dove, Turkmenportal reports. The parties discussed the outcomes of the C5+1 summit held last year, as well as prospects for interparliamentary cooperation between Turkmenistan and the United States. According to Kamlager-Dove, special attention was given to the development of contacts between the legislative bodies of the two countries. The Open World program is implemented with the support of the U.S. Congress and aims to expand interaction between the parliaments of the United States and foreign countries.
Turkmenistan has reaffirmed its commitment to the “One China” policy
20.05.2026Turkmenistan has confirmed its adherence to the “One China” policy and stated its support for the territorial integrity of the People’s Republic of China. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. As noted, Turkmenistan, which holds the status of permanent neutrality, conducts its foreign policy in accordance with international law and the Charter of the United Nations. In this regard, the country has once again confirmed that the Government of the People’s Republic of China is the sole legal government representing all of China, and that Taiwan is considered an inseparable part of China’s territory. Turkmenistan also opposes any form of “Taiwan independence,” supports the peaceful development of relations between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait, and supports the efforts of the Government of the People’s Republic of China toward national reunification.
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