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Turkmenistan and Japan are developing cooperation in the field of hydrogen energy
17.10.2026From October 14 to 16, 2026, the rector of the Yagshygeldi Kakayev International University of Oil and Gas visited Japan to develop scientific and educational ties and strengthen cooperation in the field of hydrogen energy. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. During the visit, a meeting was held with Keisuke Nagata, President of the University of Tsukuba. The parties discussed joint scientific research, specialist training and the development of innovative technologies for producing hydrogen from natural gas. Cooperation between the universities is developing on the basis of a memorandum of understanding signed by the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan and the University of Tsukuba on April 7, 2025, on the eve of the visit of President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov to Japan. During the visit, a meeting was held with Keisuke Nagata, President of the University of Tsukuba. The parties discussed joint scientific research, specialist training and the development of innovative technologies for producing hydrogen from natural gas. Cooperation between the universities is developing on the basis of a memorandum of understanding signed by the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan and the University of Tsukuba on April 7, 2025, on the eve of the visit of President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov to Japan. Particular attention was paid to personnel training. Currently, three lecturers from Turkmen universities are undertaking internships at the University of Tsukuba under the «SDGs Global Leader» programme with the support of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). The visit is intended to promote the further development of the partnership between Turkmenistan and Japan in the fields of science, education and innovative technologies, as well as to expand opportunities for joint research in the field of hydrogen energy.
Young Iranian Diplomats Visit Turkmenistan’s Foreign Ministry Institute
17.10.2026On October 16, a meeting was held at the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan with a delegation of young diplomats from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Iran. The guests learned about the institution's activities and the training system for future diplomatic personnel, according to the Institute's press service . During the tour, the delegation visited the Museum of the History of Turkmen Diplomacy, the UNESCO Club “Culture of Peace” and the institute's educational television studio. A separate meeting was held with students studying foreign languages. In addition to English and Russian, the institute teaches German, French, Chinese, Japanese, Arabic and Persian. Turkmen students welcomed the guests in Persian, demonstrating their oral communication skills. The participants in the meeting emphasized the importance of learning foreign languages and exchanging professional experience for the development of diplomatic ties between Turkmenistan and Iran. Following the visit, the parties expressed their interest in further cooperation between young professionals from the two countries, aimed at strengthening traditionally friendly relations, good-neighborliness and mutual understanding in the region.
Turkmenistan took part in the CIS transport meeting in Astana
17.10.2026Representatives of Turkmenistan participated as observers in the 46th meeting of the Coordinating Transport Meeting of the CIS member states, which took place on October 16 in Astana. The meeting was held as part of the VIII International Transport and Logistics Business Forum “New Silk Way” and the “TransLogistica Kazakhstan 2026” exhibition, reports Turkmenportal. The meeting agenda included 15 issues dedicated to the development of transport cooperation across the CIS area. Participants reviewed the implementation of decisions from the previous meeting, the development of international transportation, the digitalization of the transport sector, ensuring safety and training personnel for the transport and logistics complex. The meeting was attended by heads and representatives of the transport ministries and agencies of Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. Representatives of Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan had observer status. Representatives of the CIS Executive Committee, the Eurasian Economic Commission, sectoral councils, trade union associations and business entities also took part in the meeting. The 47th meeting of the Coordinating Transport Meeting of the CIS member states is scheduled for the second half of 2027
EBRD explores new mechanisms for attracting investment to Turkmenistan
17.10.2026The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is considering opportunities to expand international financing and expert support for projects in Turkmenistan. Among the potential instruments are joint financing, the distribution of investment risks and expanding private business access to credit resources. This was reported by Orient news agency. One of the possible mechanisms for supporting investment is the joint financing of projects by the Bank, project sponsors and commercial lenders. The EBRD’s participation can reduce the risks perceived by investors and make projects more attractive to other market participants. The Bank is also exploring opportunities to use syndicated lending, provide guarantees, offer trade finance and invest in companies’ equity. These instruments make it possible to attract funding from commercial banks and institutional investors alongside the resources of an international financial institution. A separate area of work is support for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises. The EBRD is exploring prospects for cooperation with local financial institutions to provide credit lines to private companies, including those focused on exports. Financial support may be complemented by advisory services aimed at improving business management, increasing productivity, obtaining international certifications and entering foreign markets. The EBRD has been operating in Turkmenistan since 1992. According to the bank's data cited in the publication, 87 projects have been financed over this period, for a total of 322 million euros. In July 2026, during the visit of EBRD President Odile Renaud-Basso to Turkmenistan, the parties signed five memorandums of cooperation. The documents cover the financial sector, sustainable energy, environmental protection, water resources, transport corridors and the «Green Cities» programme in Ashgabat.
Turkmenistan has advocated for expanding cooperation with the UN and UNESCO
17.10.2026During his speech at the Leaders’ Summit of the UN Conference on Biodiversity in Yerevan on October 16, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov emphasized the importance of expanding cooperation with the UN and UNESCO in the field of biodiversity and natural heritage conservation. This was reported by the TDH news agency. Turkmenistan intends to strengthen cooperation with relevant UN bodies in the field of scientific study of natural processes, conservation of water and marine ecosystems, as well as improvement of environmental monitoring. Particular attention is being paid to cooperation with UNESCO on the protection of natural heritage and the development of scientific research. One example of such cooperation was the inclusion of Turkmenistan's natural areas in the transnational World Heritage property «Turanian Deserts of Temperate Zone». Serdar Berdimuhamedov noted the need to use the scientific, expert and institutional potential of the UN system to achieve global goals for biodiversity conservation.
Cooperation between Turkmenistan and the EU in the field of education discussed in Ashgabat
17.10.2026A high-level roundtable entitled “Turkmenistan – European Training Foundation: Human Capital as the Foundation of Connectivity” was held in Ashgabat, dedicated to cooperation between Turkmenistan and the European Union in the field of education and vocational training. This was reported by the press service of the Turkmen diplomatic mission. The event was attended by Azat Atayev, Deputy Minister of Education of Turkmenistan; Pilvi Torsti, Director of the European Training Foundation; representatives of the European Union, government agencies and educational institutions; and Sapar Palvanov, Ambassador of Turkmenistan to the Kingdom of Belgium and Head of the Mission of Turkmenistan to the European Union. Participants discussed reforms to Turkmenistan’s national education system, the results of the DARYA programme and prospects for expanding cooperation under the Erasmus+ and Horizon Europe programmes. Particular attention was given to academic mobility, joint educational programmes, the recognition of qualifications and improving the quality of vocational education. The discussions highlighted the importance of training qualified specialists to support Central Asia–EU projects in transport, energy, digitalisation, environmental protection and the framework of the Global Gateway initiative. Sapar Palvanov emphasised that human capital development is an integral part of the strategic partnership between Turkmenistan and the European Union. He noted that the implementation of infrastructure, energy, transport and digital projects depends on professionals with the necessary knowledge and skills. Participants also discussed the development of educational infrastructure in Turkmenistan, the introduction of digital technologies and stronger links between education, science and the needs of the economy. The results of the DARYA programme, implemented with EU support, were considered separately. The Turkmen side highlighted the programme’s contribution to developing professional skills, training national trainers, introducing modern educational approaches and strengthening cooperation with employers. The Turkmen side also expressed interest in continuing this work beyond the current phase of the programme. Another topic was the coordination of EU and member state initiatives under the Team Europe approach. Participants explored opportunities to pool the resources of European universities, specialised organisations and the European Training Foundation to expand cooperation with Turkmenistan. The sides also discussed preparations for the EU cooperation programme for 2028–2034. The Turkmen side expressed interest in ensuring that education, professional skills and human capital development are included among the priorities of future cooperation. Following the roundtable, proposals were considered to expand academic exchanges, strengthen links between universities, improve the qualifications system and increase Turkmenistan’s participation in EU education and research programmes.
Turkmenistan emphasized the importance of implementing the Awaza Programme of Action
17.10.2026On October 16 President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov stated at the Summit of Leaders of the UN Conference on Biodiversity in Yerevan that the environmental interests of developing landlocked countries must be taken into account. This was reported by the TDH news agency. The head of state emphasized the importance of implementing the Awaza Programme of Action for 2024–2034 and the Awaza Political Declaration, adopted within the framework of the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries. Turkmenistan advocates expanding access to climate and environmental financing, transferring modern environmental protection and digital technologies, as well as developing sustainable infrastructure to counter the effects of climate change. Serdar Berdimuhamedov also noted the importance of international cooperation, solidarity and equal partnership in achieving global environmental goals.
Turkmenistan proposed making more active use of the UN's potential
17.10.2026International law and preventive diplomacy should become important tools for strengthening peace and trust in Asia. This was stated by President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov on October 15 at the VII Summit of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia (CICA) in Baku, according to the news agency «Turkmenistan: Golden Age». The head of state proposed making more active use of the potential of the UN Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia, located in Ashgabat, and emphasized the importance of international law in preventing conflicts and ensuring stability. The President noted that Turkmenistan views the CICA as an important platform for strengthening trust and sustainable development. In this regard, Serdar Berdimuhamedov recalled the country's initiatives to proclaim 2028 the Year of International Law and declare 2027–2037 the United Nations Decade of Dialogue and Preventive Diplomacy. - Convinced that strengthening the potential of international law and preventive diplomacy may also be in demand within the framework of our dialogue - primarily in the interests of preventing conflicts, building trust and finding mutually acceptable solutions, — stated the President of Turkmenistan. Serdar Berdimuhamedov expressed hope for the international community's support for the initiatives.
Turkmenistan and Japan expand cooperation in hydrogen energy
17.10.2026From October 14 to 16, 2026, the rector of the Yagshygeldi Kakayev International University of Oil and Gas visited Japan to develop scientific and educational cooperation and interaction in the field of hydrogen energy. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. During the visit, a meeting was held with Keisuke Nagata, President of the University of Tsukuba. The parties discussed joint research, specialist training and technologies for producing hydrogen from natural gas. Cooperation is developing on the basis of the Memorandum of Understanding signed by the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan and the University of Tsukuba on April 7, 2025. The Turkmen delegation also held talks with representatives of the Agency for Natural Resources and Energy of Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) and the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO). The participants visited Chiyoda Kiyasu Research Park, the Hydrogen Bonding Research Center (HBRC), and the TIAR research institute at the University of Tsukuba. Special attention was paid to personnel training. Three lecturers from Turkmen universities are undertaking an internship at the University of Tsukuba under the «SDGs Global Leader» program with the support of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). The visit is aimed at strengthening the partnership between Turkmenistan and Japan in the fields of science, education and innovative technologies, as well as expanding cooperation in the field of hydrogen energy.
Serdar Berdimuhamedov outlined Turkmenistan's environmental priorities
17.10.2026President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov outlined the country's priorities in nature conservation and international environmental cooperation on October 16 at the Summit of Leaders of the UN Conference on Biodiversity in Yerevan. This is reported by the TDH news agency. During his speech, the head of Turkmenistan noted that the country pays special attention to protecting rare animal and plant species, developing environmental monitoring and improving the system of specially protected natural areas. The key areas also include preserving the ecosystems of the Caspian and Aral Seas, combating desertification and expanding regional cooperation. In addition, Serdar Berdimuhamedov noted the importance of Turkmenistan's National Strategy and Action Plan for Biodiversity Conservation for 2026–2035, as well as cooperation with UNESCO and relevant UN agencies. The President of Turkmenistan emphasized the need to expand developing countries' access to environmental financing, modern technologies and scientific resources. Strengthening national capacity and the fair distribution of benefits from the use of genetic resources were identified as important conditions for fulfilling international environmental commitments. Turkmenistan also advocates the establishment of the Ashgabat Climate Dialogue and the Regional Center for Combating Desertification for the countries of Central Asia. These initiatives are aimed at strengthening international partnership, enhancing climate resilience and the rational use of natural resources. Particular attention in the speech was devoted to the implementation of the Awaza Programme of Action for 2024–2034 and the Awaza Political Declaration, as well as the development of South–South cooperation. Serdar Berdimuhamedov reaffirmed Turkmenistan's readiness to cooperate with interested states and international organizations to preserve biodiversity and achieve global environmental goals.
The President of Turkmenistan participated in the COP17 summit in Yerevan
17.10.2026On October 16, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov participated in the Leaders' Summit in Yerevan, organized as part of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (COP17). Following the summit, the Yerevan Declaration was adopted. Thıs was reported by the TDH news agency. According to the source, on October 15 the head of Turkmenistan arrived on a working visit to the Republic of Azerbaijan. Having completed the visit program Serdar Berdimuhamedov headed to the Republic of Armenia. At Yerevan International Airport the President of Turkmenistan was welcomed by Armenian officials and members of the official delegation of Turkmenistan. Then the head of state arrived at the «Meridian» Expo Center, where the summit was taking place. The event was attended by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, heads of state and government, representatives of the UN, environmental organizations and international experts. Before the start of the summit, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov was welcomed by Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan and UN Secretary-General António Guterres, and a group photograph of the heads of delegations was taken. In his speech, the President of Turkmenistan addressed issues of biodiversity conservation, ecosystem protection, combating climate change and desertification, regional environmental cooperation, and engagement with international organizations. The speech also covered environmental financing, modern technologies, and Turkmenistan’s initiatives in the field of climate resilience. Upon completion of the visit, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov departed for his homeland. At Ashgabat International Airport, the head of state was welcomed by officials of Turkmenistan.
Serdar Berdimuhamedov advocated for the development of youth diplomacy
16.10.2026On October 15, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov proposed establishing a Network of Young Ambassadors of Trust at the 7th Summit of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia (CICA) in Baku. This was reported by the news agency “Turkmenistan: Golden Age”. The head of state noted that the cultural traditions and historical ties of the peoples of CICA member countries contribute to strengthening mutual understanding. Turkmenistan advocates expanding academic exchanges and developing partnerships on youth platforms. According to the President of Turkmenistan, the revitalization of youth diplomacy will help engage the new generation in promoting a culture of peaceful dialogue. - A practical step in this direction could be the establishment of a Network of Young Ambassadors of Trust, comprising active, talented and progressive young people from our countries, who would be called upon to promote the ideals of peace, tolerance and constructive intercultural dialogue, — Serdar Berdimuhamedov proposed.
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