News
Ashgabat marked the 10th anniversary of Turkey’s Democracy and National Unity Day
16.07.2026A ceremony marking the 10th anniversary of Democracy and National Unity Day was held at the Cultural Centre attached to the Turkish Embassy in Ashgabat. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. Addressing those gathered, Turkish Ambassador Ahmet Demirok recalled the events of 15 July 2016, when the solidarity of the Turkish people helped to prevent a coup d’état. The diplomat expressed his deep gratitude to the leadership of Turkmenistan for their long-standing friendship and fraternal support, and paid tribute to the memory of those who lost their lives, in honour of whom the mufti recited memorial prayers. To conclude the commemorative event, guests were able to view a themed photo exhibition.
The CMA CGM logistics group is expanding its presence in Turkmenistan
16.07.2026The French logistics group ‘CMA CGM’ is expanding its presence in Turkmenistan. As part of this expansion, its subsidiary airline, ‘Air Belgium’, will open its own representative office at Ashgabat International Airport, according to the Orient news agency. According to Philippe Merlin, the French Ambassador to Turkmenistan, this move implements the agreements reached in Paris in May 2025 at a meeting between the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, and the President of France, Emmanuel Macron. The launch of regular cargo flights by the Belgian carrier via the Turkmen capital is scheduled for early August, and the new service centre will ensure their long-term support and create favourable conditions for international business.
A delegation from Turkmenistan took part in the general debate organised under the auspices of ECOSOC
16.07.2026On 15 July, a delegation from Turkmenistan took part in the general debate of the high-level segment organised under the auspices of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) at the UN headquarters in New York. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. This key event took place as part of the Political Forum on Sustainable Development and was dedicated to accelerating urgent action to achieve the SDGs by 2030. Speaking during the debate, the Head of the Turkmen delegation, Perhat Yagshiyev, Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy, emphasised that cooperation with the UN remains a priority of the country’s foreign policy, and that ensuring peace and security is a key prerequisite for sustainable development. At the national level, Turkmenistan has already integrated 85 per cent of the SDG targets into its state programmes, having adopted 131 targets and 175 indicators. During their address, the delegates paid particular attention to the environmental agenda, the rational use of water resources and the fight against desertification. Turkmenistan is promoting an initiative to establish a Regional Centre for Combating Desertification in Central Asia and is actively developing a ‘green’ economy by introducing clean technologies and fulfilling its commitments to reduce methane emissions. The city of Arkadag – the region’s first ‘smart’ city – was presented as a successful example of environmental and technological progress. Furthermore, the forum highlighted Turkmenistan’s leading role in developing international transport connectivity through major East–West and North–South projects, including the Trans-Caspian route, which is of vital importance to landlocked countries. Alongside its participation in the debates, the Turkmen delegation is studying best international practices in the preparation of Voluntary National Reviews, which will be utilised to ensure the successful submission of Turkmenistan’s third national review in 2027.
‘Tourism Malaysia’: tourist numbers from Turkmenistan continue to rise
15.07.2026The first ‘Tourism Malaysia’ seminar for representatives of Turkmenistan’s tourism sector took place in Ashgabat, with the support of the Malaysian Embassy and the Turkmen Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. Nor Shazly Azmi, Director of ‘Tourism Malaysia’, noted that the event marked the start of long-term cooperation between the two countries. According to him, 10,750 tourists from Turkmenistan visited Malaysia in 2025 — 42.5 per cent more than the previous year. He said that the growth in tourist numbers was facilitated by direct flights between Ashgabat and Kuala Lumpur. During the seminar, Malaysia’s tourism opportunities were presented, including beach, eco and cultural tourism, and the prospects for joint projects were discussed. ‘Tourism Malaysia’ forecasts a further 20 per cent increase in the number of tourists from Turkmenistan by 2026. The most popular destinations remain Kuala Lumpur, Malacca and the island of Langkawi.
Turkmenistan is implementing a strategy of scientific and medical diplomacy
15.07.2026Turkmenistan is implementing the National Strategy for the Development of Scientific and Medical Diplomacy for 2026–2052, which was approved in March this year alongside the Action Plan for 2026–2030. The document sets out long-term priorities for the development of the healthcare system, international cooperation and the integration of the country’s medical science into the global scientific community, reports the news agency TDH. The strategy provides for strengthening the sector’s scientific and human resources capacity, introducing modern medical and digital technologies, developing scientific research, improving the system for training specialists, and expanding cooperation with international organisations. Particular attention is paid to the development of medical diplomacy, the exchange of scientific expertise, joint research and the coordination of efforts to prevent and combat infectious and non-communicable diseases. The document also provides for the provision of humanitarian aid and the development of international partnerships in the field of healthcare. The strategy will be implemented in three phases: 2026–2030, 2031–2040 and 2041–2052. It will be carried out in collaboration with the World Health Organisation, UNICEF, the United Nations Development Programme, the International Atomic Energy Agency, the World Trade Organisation and other international bodies. As part of the first phase, the Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan, in conjunction with relevant departments, will continue to develop cooperation with the UN, the European Union, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, the CIS, the Non-Aligned Movement, international financial institutions and other partners. An international conference on ‘Global Health Diplomacy’ among CIS countries is planned for 2026. In the coming years, Turkmenistan intends to organise high-level regional meetings, participate in international forums, implement joint research projects and promote the inclusion of health issues in the country’s initiatives and resolutions at the UN General Assembly. The document also provides for the improvement of the regulatory framework, the development of training materials on health diplomacy, the preparation of analytical reviews, the organisation of international professional development courses, and the continuation of training for Turkmen students and healthcare professionals abroad. To assess the effectiveness of the strategy’s implementation, monitoring indicators will be introduced in accordance with international standards. In 2030, it is planned to prepare a report on the implementation of the first phase and to draw up an action plan for the next period.
Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan held political consultations in Ashgabat
15.07.2026On 14 July 2026, a further round of political consultations took place in Ashgabat between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan. This was reported by the press office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The Turkmen delegation was led by Rashid Meredov, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, whilst the Uzbek delegation was led by Bakhtiyor Saidov, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan. During the meeting, the parties discussed the current state and prospects for the development of the Turkmen-Uzbek strategic partnership, as well as issues relating to the strengthening of political and diplomatic cooperation. The importance of regular high-level contacts for the further development of bilateral relations was emphasised. Particular attention was paid to cooperation within the framework of the UN, the CIS, the OIC, the ECO and the Non-Aligned Movement, as well as to the coordination of positions on topical issues on the regional and international agenda. The parties considered ways of improving the legal and treaty framework, expanding inter-parliamentary and inter-regional ties, and developing cooperation between the relevant ministries of the two countries. In the economic sphere, they discussed prospects for expanding trade and investment cooperation, and for enhancing the effectiveness of the Joint Turkmen-Uzbek Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technical and Cultural Cooperation. Issues relating to transport and transit cooperation, the development of international corridors, logistics infrastructure, industry, agriculture, energy and the digital economy were also addressed. Particular attention was paid to cultural and humanitarian ties. The parties noted the development of cooperation in the fields of education, science, culture, healthcare, youth policy and sport, reaffirming their interest in expanding exchanges and joint projects. A signing ceremony for bilateral documents took place as part of the consultations.
The Turkmen group ‘Galkynyş’ continues to gain international recognition
15.07.2026Turkmenistan continues its work to develop and promote its national culture and arts internationally. One area of focus is the development of circus arts, in which the ‘Galkynyş’ National Equestrian Games Group plays an important role, according to the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The troupe was founded in 2007 on the initiative of the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. Today, ‘Galkynyş’ showcases Turkmenistan’s cultural heritage on the international stage and takes part in state events and major cultural projects. A special feature of the troupe’s performances is the Ahal-Teke racehorses and the complex equestrian acrobatic acts, which showcase the skill of the Turkmen riders. The ‘Galkynyş’ troupe has taken part in international circus festivals and has won prestigious awards. These include the top prizes at the ‘IDOL’ World Circus Arts Festival in Moscow (2013), the 16th International Circus Festival in Latina (Italy, 2014), the 2nd International Circus Arts Festival in the People’s Republic of China (2015), the 2nd World Nomad Games in Cholpon-Ata (Kyrgyz Republic, 2016), as well as the ‘Golden Gaetano’ statuette at the ‘Na Fontanke’ festival in St Petersburg (2018). In 2025, the troupe gained international recognition at the 47th International Circus Arts Festival in Monte Carlo (Principality of Monaco), where it was awarded the Grand Prix, as well as a number of special prizes. In January 2026, at the 48th International Festival of Circus Arts in Monte Carlo, the ‘Galkynyş’ National Equestrian Games Group received international certificates from the World Circus Federation and the European Circus Association for its contribution to the development of circus arts. The troupe continues to take part in international events, representing the Turkmen circus school and fostering cultural ties between countries. ‘Galkynyş’ performances combine elements of equestrian art, acrobatics and the traditional culture of Turkmenistan.
The Foreign Ministers of Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan discussed ways to develop cooperation
15.07.2026On 14 July, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Rashid Meredov held a meeting in Ashgabat with Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan Bakhtiyor Saidov. The parties discussed the state of and prospects for bilateral cooperation, according to the press office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The foreign ministers noted the strong momentum in Turkmen-Uzbek relations and emphasised the role of regular contacts at the highest state level in developing the partnership. Particular attention was paid to the implementation of previously reached agreements and joint projects in the trade and economic, transport and logistics, energy and industrial sectors. The development of cultural and humanitarian cooperation, including collaboration in the fields of science, education and the arts, was also discussed. Furthermore, the ministers exchanged views on topical issues on the regional and international agenda, reaffirming their shared approaches to ensuring peace, stability and sustainable development in Central Asia.
Turkmenistan and ASEAN discussed prospects for cooperation in Jakarta
15.07.2026On 14 July, Ahmet Gurbanov, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, held meetings in Jakarta with Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), and Dyah Roro Esti Widya Putri, Deputy Minister of Trade of the Republic of Indonesia. This was reported by the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. During the talks with ASEAN leaders, the parties discussed the development of cooperation in the fields of transport, energy, trade, investment, the digital economy, innovation, education, science, tourism and cultural and humanitarian exchanges. Issues relating to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals, adaptation to climate change, ensuring food and energy security, digital transformation and skills development were also discussed. At the meeting with the Deputy Minister of Trade of the Republic of Indonesia, the main focus was on expanding trade and economic ties, cooperation between chambers of commerce and industry and business communities, holding joint forums and exhibitions, and developing cooperation in transport and logistics. As part of the visit, the first political consultations took place between the foreign ministries of Turkmenistan and the Republic of Indonesia. The parties discussed the state of bilateral relations, the international and regional agenda, and new areas of cooperation. Particular attention was paid to the development of political contacts, inter-parliamentary cooperation, collaboration between relevant ministries, and the strengthening of cooperation within international organisations. The parties also considered the prospects for expanding Turkmenistan’s partnership with ASEAN, including the initiative to establish a ‘Central Asia + ASEAN’ dialogue format, as well as the development of cooperation in the trade, economic, transport, educational, scientific and cultural spheres.
Turkmenistan is preparing for the OGT 2026 international forum
15.07.2026Regional cooperation is becoming one of the key factors in the development of the global energy sector, the strengthening of energy security and the attraction of investment. The states of Eurasia are expanding their partnerships, developing infrastructure and implementing modern solutions in the energy sector, according to the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. Turkmenistan, which possesses significant natural gas reserves, is consistently developing its cooperation with foreign partners. The country is expanding cooperation in the energy sector, infrastructure and technology, with a focus on strengthening regional stability and sustainable development. The Caspian region remains an important hub for energy cooperation. The development of transport corridors, the exploitation of resources and the growth of investment are creating new opportunities for cooperation between the Caspian states. One area of focus is the strengthening of the partnership between Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan. The visit to Turkmenistan by Mikayil Jabbarov, Minister of Economy of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and the participation of representatives from the State Oil Company of the Republic of Azerbaijan (SOCAR) confirmed the parties’ interest in expanding cooperation. Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan are developing cooperation in the fields of geological exploration, hydrocarbon production, maritime projects, transport infrastructure, digital technologies and environmental initiatives. Turkmenistan’s energy partnership also extends beyond the region. Strategic cooperation with the People’s Republic of China ensures the supply of natural gas via one of the largest export routes. Joint projects with PETRONAS contribute to the introduction of modern technologies and the development of the oil and gas sector. The ‘Turkmenistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan–India’ (TAPI) gas pipeline remains a key element of regional integration, aimed at developing energy interconnectivity and economic cooperation in Central and South Asia. At the same time, Turkmenistan is focusing on the digitalisation of the energy sector, reducing methane emissions, improving environmental performance and introducing advanced production technologies. The development of international projects requires expanded investment cooperation. Stable business conditions, the country’s resource potential and its favourable geographical location create opportunities for implementing projects in the fields of hydrocarbon production, gas processing, gas chemistry and the modernisation of energy infrastructure. An important platform for discussing these issues will be the 31st International Conference and Exhibition ‘Oil and Gas of Turkmenistan – 2026’ (OGT 2026), which will take place on 21–23 October 2026 in Ashgabat under the motto ‘Energy. Partnership. Progress.’ For over 30 years, OGT has brought together representatives of government bodies, oil and gas companies, international organisations, investors, financial institutions and technology companies. OGT 2026 is set to discuss investment projects, the development of the ‘Galkynyş’ gas field, the exploitation of resources in Turkmenistan’s sector of the Caspian Sea, the expansion of gas processing and gas chemistry, the digital transformation of the industry, and issues of sustainable development. To date, more than 100 international delegates from over 20 countries have confirmed their participation in the conference. Participant registration is still open. OGT 2026 will serve as a platform for exchanging experience, discussing new projects and strengthening long-term cooperation in the energy sector.
School pupils from Turkmenistan won four awards at TIMO 2026
15.07.2026School pupils from Turkmenistan won four awards at the Turkic International Mathematical Olympiad (TIMO 2026), held from 2 to 6 July in Baku (Azerbaijan). This was reported by the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. Pupils from 13 countries took part in the competition, including Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Russia, Turkey and Turkmenistan. The Turkmenistan team won one bronze medal and three Honourable Mentions. The bronze medallist was Ayhan Orazdurdyev, a 4th grade student at the A.S. Pushkin Joint Turkmen-Russian Secondary School, who scored 80 points out of 56 participants in his age category. Honourable Mentions were awarded to Alymuhammet Orazov from Ashgabat, as well as Ayjeren Muhammetnazarova and Gulshat Muhammetnazarova from the city of Mary. The Olympiad featured highly challenging problems designed to test mathematical knowledge, logical thinking and the ability to solve non-standard problems.
The President of Turkmenistan received the Uzbek Foreign Minister
15.07.2026On 14 July, the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, met with the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Bakhtiyor Saidov, who had arrived in the country on an official visit. This was reported by the news agency TDH. The guest conveyed greetings and best wishes from the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, to the Head of the Turkmen State, as well as to the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. Serdar Berdimuhamedov extended his own best wishes to the Uzbek leader and noted that the visit opens up new opportunities for the development of bilateral cooperation. The parties emphasised the high level of trust and mutual respect in Turkmen-Uzbek relations, which serves as the foundation for their strategic partnership. The countries actively cooperate within the framework of the UN, the CIS, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and other international bodies, providing mutual support for initiatives in the fields of peace and sustainable development. The President of Turkmenistan spoke highly of cooperation within the ‘Central Asia+’ regional frameworks. During the meeting, it was noted that, during Turkmenistan’s chairmanship of the CIS, the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone will host a meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Commonwealth and a consultative meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia and Azerbaijan. Furthermore, it was emphasised that particular attention is being paid to trade and economic cooperation, primarily in the energy, transport and logistics sectors. This work is coordinated by the Joint Turkmen-Uzbek Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technical and Cultural Cooperation. The interlocutors also emphasised the importance of cultural and humanitarian ties, based on historical bonds of friendship and shared spiritual values. At the conclusion of the meeting, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov reaffirmed Turkmenistan’s readiness to further develop fruitful cooperation with Uzbekistan.
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