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Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov inspected the construction of the city of Arkadag
01.03.2026The National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov inspected the progress of construction of the second phase of the city of Arkadag. The focus was on medical cluster facilities and industrial zones, according to IIC. During the inspection, standards for furnishing residential premises and interior design solutions for the new city mosque were approved. Particular emphasis was placed on road safety issues: adaptive traffic light systems and modern road markings that meet international requirements are being introduced. In addition, a plan was presented for the modernisation of the ‘Polatly’ monument and the improvement of ‘Ahalteke atlary’ Avenue. At a working meeting in the city administration, it was noted that 2026 will mark the fifth anniversary of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship. In this regard, instructions were given to prepare a comprehensive programme of anniversary events with the participation of creative groups. Cultural events are planned in Ashgabat and Arkadag, aimed at demonstrating the results of the Fund's work in the field of child health and social support. During his visit to the equestrian complex, Hero Arkadag also discussed the implementation of the action plan for 2026. The strategy provides for the holding of an international competition ‘The Most Beautiful Ahal-Teke Horse of the Year’ and a series of scientific conferences with the participation of foreign experts. It is planned to actively involve students from relevant universities in the organisation of events to exchange experience with foreign specialists. The key task is to further strengthen Turkmenistan's status as one of the world centres of Ahal-Teke horse breeding and to integrate national horse training standards into the international system.
Turkmenistan and the UAE have agreed on steps for joint railway projects
01.03.2026The Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Turkmenistan to the UAE, Bayram Bayramov, met with the Executive Director for International Relations at ‘Etihad Rail’, Tariq Al Falahi. This was reported by the IIC. The discussion focused on joint infrastructure projects aimed at strengthening transport links between Central and South Asia. The parties discussed the practical implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding between the railway authorities of the two countries, signed in October 2025 at the ‘Global Rail’ exhibition in Abu Dhabi, and agreed on steps for technical coordination. Strategic aspects of the partnership and the preparation of roadmaps for further integration of transport systems were also discussed. Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their readiness to continue regular expert consultations.
Turkmenistan prepares for exhibition and international investment forum
01.03.2026On 27 February, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan Nokerguly Atagulyev presented a report on preparations for an exhibition dedicated to the 18th anniversary of the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs and the International Forum ‘Investments in the Future of Turkmenistan’ during a government meeting. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. According to the Deputy Prime Minister, about 70 foreign companies and international organisations have confirmed their participation, and registration is ongoing. The Turkmen side will be represented at the forum by representatives of ministries, industry departments and the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs. After hearing the report, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov emphasised the importance of developing the private sector and instructed the Deputy Prime Minister to ensure a high level of organisation for the exhibition and forum.
EBRD: Turkmenistan will maintain stable economic growth until 2027
01.03.2026Turkmenistan expects stable economic growth to continue until 2027, according to the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development's report ‘Regional Economic Prospects in the EBRD Regions.’ This was reported by the online publication ‘Business Turkmenistan.’ At the end of 2025, the country's GDP grew by 6.3% year-on-year. Growth was supported by the expansion of transport activities, active trade with neighbouring countries, including a free trade regime with Uzbekistan, as well as the development of the private sector and favourable price conditions for exports. Investments in public infrastructure stimulated construction and overall economic activity, while regulatory measures helped to contain inflation through price mechanisms, import support and credit restrictions.
Turkmenistan to develop a strategy for scientific and medical diplomacy for 2026–2052
01.03.2026Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers Batyr Mammedov reported on the progress of scientific and medical diplomacy in the country during a government meeting on 27 February. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. Under the leadership of President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov, experience is being introduced in the field of health care, construction of modern medical facilities, development of science and international cooperation, which contributes to improving the health of the population and strengthening the country's international authority. The Deputy Prime Minister presented a proposal to the President of Turkmenistan in this regard. After hearing the report, the Head of State instructed to prepare a National Strategy for the Development of Scientific and Medical Diplomacy in Turkmenistan for 2026-2052.
Turkmenistan delegation participates in regional seminar in Astana
01.03.2026A delegation from Turkmenistan took part in a regional seminar on combating gender-based violence in emergency situations, which was held from 25 to 27 February in Astana. This was reported by the IIC. The event was organised by UNFPA with the support of the British Government. The Turkmen delegation included specialists from the Ministries of Defence, Health and Medical Industry, Internal Affairs, as well as the National Red Crescent Society of Turkmenistan. The aim of the event was to strengthen the readiness of state structures to respond to gender risks in crisis situations and to improve inter-agency coordination. Participants discussed the implementation of minimum protection standards, the development of a cluster approach, the creation of safe spaces for women and girls, and the provision of psychosocial support based on the principle of inclusiveness. Particular attention was paid to risk assessment, coordination of humanitarian action and the prevention of sexual exploitation in times of crisis. Experts emphasised the need to integrate these mechanisms into national preparedness and response plans. International expert Ana Araujo noted that effective referral systems for victims must be established in peacetime, as they provide rapid, safe and confidential support in emergency situations. At the end of the seminar, participants exchanged experiences with colleagues from Central Asian countries. The recommendations received will be used to improve national protocols for the protection of women's rights and safety in emergency situations.
Transport and trade in focus of negotiations between Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan
28.02.2026On 27 February, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan Ahmet Gurbanov held a meeting with Foreign Affairs Minister of Azerbaijan Jeyhun Bayramov. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. During the negotiations, the parties noted the high level of bilateral relations. It was emphasised that due to the consistent efforts of the leadership of the two states, the friendly and fraternal ties between the peoples of Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan have reached a qualitatively new level. The interlocutors pointed to the significant role of regular high-level contacts in maintaining a sustainable political dialogue, strengthening mutual understanding on key issues of the regional and international agenda, as well as in mutual support for initiatives in international structures. Particular attention was paid to the development of trade and economic cooperation, which is identified as one of the priority areas of partnership. In this context, issues related to strengthening transport and logistics links, expanding multimodal corridors and simplifying cross-border procedures were discussed, which should contribute to the growth of mutual trade. The importance of cooperation in the fields of culture, science, education and sport was noted separately. The diplomats emphasised the significance of joint events, creative exchanges and educational programmes for further strengthening friendship and mutual understanding between the peoples.
Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan held inter-ministerial consultations in Baku
28.02.2026On 27 February, inter-ministerial consultations between the foreign ministries of Turkmenistan and the Republic of Azerbaijan took place in Baku. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The delegations were led by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan A. Gurbanov and Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan S. Sharifov. The parties discussed a wide range of issues of bilateral cooperation and topical issues on the regional and international agenda. Particular attention was paid to the development of political and diplomatic dialogue, the expansion of trade and economic ties, cooperation in the transport, logistics and energy sectors, and the strengthening of cultural and humanitarian contacts. It was noted that high-level negotiations remain a key factor in strengthening the partnership. In this context, issues related to the preparation of upcoming meetings were discussed. The interlocutors emphasised the importance of interparliamentary cooperation and the role of the Turkmen-Azerbaijani Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation as a mechanism for promoting joint initiatives. The strategic potential of Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan as transit hubs between Asia and Europe for the implementation of international transport corridors was highlighted.
Mothers with many children in Turkmenistan will be given keys to new flats
28.02.2026In Turkmenistan, preparations are underway for International Women's Day in the cities of Ashgabat and Arkadag. In particular, work is underway to organise high-level ceremonies to honour mothers who have given birth to and raised eight or more children and have been awarded the honorary title of Turkmenistan ‘Ene mähri’, as well as to present them with the keys to new flats, reports TDH. This information was announced by the Chair of the Mejlis, D. Gulmanova, on 27 February during a regular meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers. In addition, it was reported that draft laws are currently being prepared covering the political, economic and cultural spheres, as well as aimed at further improving the living standards of the population. At the same time, work is continuing on amendments and additions to the current legislation. The Head of Parliament also presented information on the results of the visit of the Turkmenistan delegation to Georgia, which took place on 23–24 February this year.
Serdar Berdimuhamedov signed a Decree awarding the title of ‘Ene mähri’
28.02.2026On 27 February, at a meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov signed a Decree awarding mothers of large families the honorary title of ‘Ene mähri,’ according to TDH. The Head of State emphasised the importance of mothers' role in preserving family values and raising children. According to him, their work strengthens the country's authority, which is why mothers in Turkmenistan are always treated with respect and honour. The President noted that International Women's Day will be widely celebrated. The Head of State emphasised the high level of organisation of the celebrations, including the honouring of women with the title ‘Ene mähri’ and the presentation of keys to new apartments.
Turkmen and British universities expand academic cooperation
28.02.2026On 26 February 2025, during a working visit to the United Kingdom by a delegation from Turkmenistan led by the Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister of Foreign Affairs Rashid Meredov, several bilateral documents were signed in the field of education, science and training. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. Memoranda of Understanding were signed between the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan and the following organisations: AQA Assessment Services Ltd; Pearson National Computer Systems on skills development, certification and qualifications; Norwich Institute of Language Education; Nottingham Trent University with the Dovletmammet Azadi Turkmen National Institute of World Languages on cooperation in science and education. The documents are aimed at expanding academic cooperation, introducing modern educational standards and strengthening partnerships between educational and scientific institutions in Turkmenistan and the United Kingdom.
Turkmenistan presented its investment potential to British businesses
28.02.2026On 26 February, at Lancaster House, a Turkmen delegation led by Rashid Meredov, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, took part in a business reception with representatives of the British business community. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. British Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy delivered a welcoming speech. He emphasised the importance of strengthening economic ties with Central Asia and developing sustainable partnership projects. The Foreign Ministers of the Central Asian countries then made brief statements. In his speech, Rashid Meredov noted that the global trade and energy system is undergoing a transformation. New transport corridors and centres of economic growth are being formed. According to him, Central Asia and Turkmenistan occupy a significant place in these processes. Special attention was paid to the country's energy potential. It was emphasised that Turkmenistan has large reserves of natural gas and has proven itself to be a reliable partner over many years. In the context of European countries revising their energy strategies, Turkmenistan has expressed its readiness for substantive dialogue on new supply routes, long-term contracts and joint projects, including renewable energy. The Turkmen side also noted the country's role in the development of the Middle Corridor and the modernisation of transport infrastructure, including the port of Turkmenbashi, which expands opportunities for British business. It is reported that Turkmenistan is consistently creating a favourable investment environment with legal guarantees, international arbitration mechanisms and special economic regimes. The priority areas include energy, petrochemicals, the agro-industrial sector, technology and infrastructure. In conclusion, the readiness for long-term partnership based on mutual respect and mutual benefit was confirmed.
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