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Approximately 200,000 citizens of Turkmenistan visited Turkey in 2025
30.01.2026In 2025, approximately 200,000 citizens of Turkmenistan visited Turkey. This was announced on 28 January at a press conference in Ashgabat by Ahmet Demirok, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkey to Turkmenistan, according to the news website Asmannews. According to information from the Turkish embassy, approximately 120,000 visas were issued to Turkmen citizens during this period. The Diplomat noted the importance of cultural cooperation in the development of bilateral relations. According to A. Demirok, there is still a high level of interest in Turkish culture in Turkmenistan, which contributes to the strengthening of humanitarian ties between the two countries. In addition, there are plans to open a Turkish cultural centre named after Yunus Emre in Ashgabat in 2026. Similar centres are already operating in many countries around the world.
A new UNICEF country programme has been launched in Turkmenistan
30.01.2026UNICEF, in collaboration with the government of Turkmenistan, has officially launched a Country Programme for 2026–2030 aimed at ensuring the health, education, protection and well-being of every child. This was reported by the IIC. The programme was presented with the participation of representatives of state bodies, civil society, international partners and children. The new programme is based on national development priorities, the National Action Plan for Realisation of Children's Rights and the Sustainable Development Goals. Its key areas are health and nutrition for mothers and children, inclusive and quality education, protection of children from violence, development of data-driven social policy, and improving climate resilience and risk preparedness. The event also summarised the results of the 2021–2025 Programme. The results include high levels of child immunisation (over 95%), improved nutrition through flour fortification, expanded early development services, support for families and children with disabilities, the development of alternative forms of care, and the implementation of climate initiatives, including the ‘Green School’ project. The 2026-2030 Programme will be implemented under the leadership of the government of Turkmenistan with a focus on reducing inequality, scaling up effective solutions and strengthening national systems with the support of UNICEF and partners.
Trade between Turkmenistan and Turkey amounted to $2 billion
29.01.2026The volume of trade between Turkmenistan and Turkey in January–November 2025 approached $2 billion. This was announced on 28 January by Ahmet Demirok, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkey to Turkmenistan, according to the news website Asmannews. According to the Diplomat, bilateral relations are consistently developing in all areas on the principles of mutual benefit, which has a positive impact on trade and economic cooperation. ‘Turkey remains one of Turkmenistan's largest trading partners,’ Demirok said. The Diplomat stressed that the existing potential for cooperation significantly exceeds current indicators. In this regard, the parties intend to increase trade volumes, and reaching the level of $5 billion is considered a realistic goal. The Ambassador also expressed confidence that upcoming exhibitions and joint economic events will provide an additional impetus for expanding bilateral cooperation.
Turkey will present its export products at an exhibition in Ashgabat
29.01.2026From 10 to 12 February 2026, Ashgabat will host the 12th specialised exhibition of Turkish export products. About 100 companies and industry associations from Turkey will take part in the event. This was reported by AsmanNews. Turkish Minister of Trade Omer Bolat is expected to attend the opening with an official delegation. The exhibition will serve as a platform for presenting Turkish goods and technologies. Turkmen entrepreneurs and representatives of state structures will be able to discuss possible joint projects. During his visit, Omer Bolat will hold meetings dedicated to the development of trade and economic cooperation between Turkmenistan and Turkey.
A briefing on the updated ‘Uzbekistan – 2030’ Strategy was held in Ashgabat
29.01.2026On 28 January, the Embassy of the Republic of Uzbekistan in Turkmenistan held a briefing on the update of the ‘Uzbekistan – 2030’ Strategy. Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ravshanbek Alimov presented to media representatives the key provisions of the document, which defines the long-term development priorities of Uzbekistan, according to the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The strategy includes 100 goals in five areas. They cover social development, economic growth, protection of natural resources and ensuring the rule of law. A separate section is devoted to creating conditions for the self-realisation of citizens and continuing a foreign policy based on the principle of a ‘safe and peaceful state’. The briefing also emphasised the importance of regional cooperation. In the context of the changing geopolitical situation, Central Asia is seen as a connecting space between East and West. Particular emphasis is placed on developing relations with Turkmenistan. It was noted that with the support of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, bilateral cooperation has reached the level of a strategic partnership. Uzbekistan confirmed its readiness to participate in joint projects, including the development of transport and transit corridors and the expansion of trade, economic and humanitarian ties.
Turkmen students participate in the ‘Feel Korea! with KNU’ programme in Korea
29.01.2026A Korean language teacher at the Dovletmammet Azadi Turkmen National Institute of World Languages, A. Seyitberdiyeva, and students majoring in ‘Pedagogical Education’ are participating in a short-term programme called ‘Feel Korea! with KNU’. This information was reported by Turkmenportal. The programme is taking place in Seoul and Chuncheon and is organised by Kangwon National University. The trip lasts from 19 January to 2 February and is being held as part of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Dovletmammet Azadi Turkmen National Institute of World Languages and Kangwon National University. Participants are taking practical classes in the Korean language. The main focus is on developing oral and written communication skills, as well as everyday communication. As part of the programme, the delegation also visited the national museums of Chuncheon and Seoul, where they learned about the cultural and historical heritage of the Republic of Korea.
The city of Arkadag celebrated the international recognition of the ‘Galkynysh’ group
29.01.2026The ‘Galkynysh’ National Equestrian Games Group of the Ahal-Teke Equestrian Complex of the President of Turkmenistan has been awarded international certificates from the World Circus Federation and the European Circus Association. The awards were presented at the 48th International Circus Festival in Monte Carlo (Principality of Monaco). This was reported by the state news agency TDH. In Turkmenistan, a solemn event was held in the city of Arkadag to mark the occasion. Riders from the ‘Galkynysh’ group took part in a procession along Geokdepe and Akhan avenues on Ahal-Teke horses and in a phaeton. The column proceeded to the State Equestrian Circus named after Gorogly. At the ‘Taýçanak’ monument, the participants continued their route along Ahal-Teke Atlary, Akhan and Aba Annayev avenues. The procession was accompanied by musical performances. Along the way, it was greeted by residents and students with flags. An exhibition was organised in the circus foyer. The exhibition featured works of applied art, photographs, elements of horse harness, as well as prizes and awards from the ‘Galkynysh’ group. The official part took place in the auditorium. International certificates were placed on the stage. The participants of the event gave their congratulations. Urs Pilz, Artistic Director and Vice-President of the International Circus Festival, addressed the audience via video link. He noted the contribution of the ‘Galkynysh’ group and thanked them for participating in the festival in Monte Carlo. The programme concluded with a performance by the ‘Galkynysh’ National Equestrian Games Group in the circus arena. At the end of the event, an appeal was made to President Serdar Berdimuhamedov.
Turkmenistan and Morocco held political consultations in Ashgabat
29.01.2026On 28 January, political consultations between the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan and the Kingdom of Morocco took place in Ashgabat. The negotiations were held at the level of heads of structural divisions, according to the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The Turkmen side was represented by the Head of the Middle East and Africa Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The Moroccan delegation was led by Omar Kadiri, Director for Asia and Oceania at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates. The parties discussed bilateral cooperation in the political-diplomatic, trade-economic and cultural-humanitarian spheres. Particular attention was paid to cooperation within international and regional organisations, including the UN. The practice of mutual support for initiatives was noted. Interest in the development of trade and economic ties was confirmed. The oil and gas, chemical and textile industries, agriculture and tourism were named among the priorities. The possibility of establishing a Joint Commission on Economic Cooperation was considered. The expediency of holding meetings of relevant ministries and departments with the participation of business representatives was also noted. The parties emphasised the importance of the existing legal framework and agreed to intensify work on new bilateral documents in the areas of foreign policy, transport, education and science.
The Jibek Joly international train has extended its route to Dushanbe
29.01.2026The Jibek Joly (‘Silk Road’) international tourist train will connect Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan for the first time as part of a single route. This was reported by Turkmenportal with reference to the press service of the national railway operator Kazakhstan Temir Zholy (KTZ). The train will run from 20 to 25 March 2026. For the first time, the route of the project has been extended to Dushanbe. The route includes the cities of Almaty, Turkestan, Samarkand, Dushanbe and Tashkent, with a return to Almaty. The tour programme includes an introduction to the culture, traditions and musical heritage of the peoples of Central Asia. The decision to launch tourist trains between Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan was made at the end of 2024.
Turkey emphasised prospects for cooperation with Turkmenistan in the energy sector
29.01.2026On 28 January, a press conference was held at the residence of Ahmet Demirok, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkey to Turkmenistan, with the participation of representatives of the media and business communities of both countries. The main topic of discussion was bilateral cooperation, including in the field of energy, according to the news website Turkmenportal. The Ambassador emphasised that energy partnership remains a key area of cooperation between Ankara and Ashgabat. He recalled the agreement between BOTAŞ and ‘Türkmengaz’ State Concern, signed on 10 February 2025, which provides for the supply of up to 2 billion cubic metres of Turkmen gas to Turkey via Iran. A. Demirok called the start of supplies a historic event and noted that it confirms Turkmenistan's status as a reliable participant in the global energy market. Among the long-term priorities, he highlighted the Trans-Caspian gas pipeline project, which, according to him, could open the way for Turkmen gas to European markets. According to the Diplomat, the current international situation creates a favourable ‘window of opportunity’ for the export of energy resources to the West, but it is necessary to act quickly. He also noted Turkmenistan's potential in electricity exports and expressed confidence that the development of this area will strengthen energy cooperation between countries.
Turkmenistan participated in discussions on the priorities of the ECO in Tehran
29.01.2026On 27 January, Tehran hosted a regular meeting of the Council of Permanent Representatives of the member countries of the Economic Cooperation Organisation (ECO). This was reported by the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The meeting was attended by the Ambassador of Turkmenistan, Permanent Representative of Turkmenistan to the ECO, Ilyas Gayipov. The main focus was on the progress of the implementation of the measures provided for in the Awaza Programme of Action 2024-2034. In particular, the ECO presented a project on the implementation of the third priority area of the Programme - ‘Transit, Transport and Connectivity’ in the ECO region. This proposal, as well as the initiative to organise specialised meetings for its practical implementation, were supported by the Council. Speaking at the meeting, Y. Gayipov expressed his gratitude to the ECO Secretariat and representatives of member states for their support of the proposed project, and noted the importance of active participation by all parties in its further implementation. In addition, participants were provided with information on the work done by the Organisation on the topic ‘Awaza Programme of Action 2024-2034 and the ECO Region’ within the framework of the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries, as well as on the steps planned for the coming period. It was noted that, at the initiative of the Turkmen side, the third priority area of the Awaza Action Programme, ‘Transit, Transport and Connectivity’, had been included in the draft document of the ECO, ‘Strategic Objectives of Economic Cooperation - 2035’, which is expected to be adopted in the near future.
Canadian Ambassador discusses prospects for strengthening ties with Turkmenistan
29.01.2026Christopher Duggan, Canada's Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Turkmenistan, noted the prospects for strengthening bilateral relations between the countries in an interview with IIC. ‘Our embassy is located in Astana (Kazakhstan), and I have the honour of being Canada's Ambassador to the entire region. I am currently in Turkmenistan and I am very happy to be here,’ the Ambassador emphasised. Mr. Duggan noted that he sees great potential in the development of bilateral relations, as the countries have much in common in terms of peace, security, trust and participation in multilateral international institutions. The Diplomat reported that representatives of Turkmenistan recently made a successful visit to the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, and a meeting was held to discuss new opportunities for further cooperation and strengthening communication between the countries. The Head of the diplomatic mission noted that Turkmenistan faces common challenges that create opportunities for finding joint solutions, and expressed hope for the strengthening of these ties and his return to the country. According to him, it is important for him not only to work in Turkmenistan, but also to seek ways to build a more just and peaceful future for both countries.
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