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Turkmenistan presented its concept for the CIS chairmanship in 2026
31.01.2026Turkmenistan presented its concept for its chairmanship of the CIS in 2026. The presentation took place on 29 January in Minsk at a meeting of the Council of Permanent Representatives of the CIS, according to IIC. The priorities were announced by Nazarguly Shagulyev, Turkmenistan's Ambassador to Belarus. According to him, the programme is based on the principles of Peace and Trust. Ashgabat proposed to declare 2027 the Year of Transport Connectivity in the CIS. The initiative is aimed at developing logistics, infrastructure and international transport corridors. There are also plans to strengthen digital interaction and innovative cooperation as factors in the region's competitiveness. In the political sphere, Turkmenistan advocates coordinating actions to protect international law. CIS countries have been asked to develop a coordinated position within the UN. Ashgabat also hopes to gain support for its initiative to declare 2028 the International Year of Law. The humanitarian part of the concept covers youth exchanges, sports, the promotion of multilingualism and environmental projects. Separate emphasis is placed on the ‘green economy’ and scientific and technical cooperation. The meeting participants also discussed preparations for the CIS Council of Foreign Affairs Ministers, which will be held in Kaliningrad in April, and reviewed a report on the development of Commonwealth statistics.
Turkmenistan officially assumed the chairmanship of the CIS
31.01.2026Turkmenistan has assumed the chairmanship of the Commonwealth of Independent States. The concept of the chairmanship and the plan for its implementation were presented by Nazarguly Shagulyev, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to the Republic of Belarus, before the first meeting of the Council of Permanent Representatives of the CIS in Minsk in 2026. This was reported by IIC. The Ambassador noted that Turkmenistan considers the CIS an important platform for cooperation between states with common economic and humanitarian interests. Work during the chairmanship will be carried out in accordance with the organisation's statutory documents and will be aimed at developing multilateral cooperation. As part of its mandate, Turkmenistan will head the activities of key CIS bodies, including the Councils of Heads of State and Government, the Council of Foreign Affairs Ministers and the Economic Council. In 2026, meetings and forums are planned both in Turkmenistan and in other countries of the Commonwealth. The meeting in Minsk also approved the working plan of the Council of Permanent Representatives and the draft agenda for the meeting of the Council of Foreign Affairs Ministers of the CIS. Separate consideration was given to the implementation of the CIS statistics development project, aimed at improving the effectiveness of integration processes.
A Resolution on the development of the digital economy has been signed in Turkmenistan
31.01.2026The President of Turkmenistan has signed a Resolution approving the State Programme for the Development of the Digital Economy for 2026–2028 and its implementation plan, according to the news resource AsmanNews. The programme aims to introduce modern digital solutions and create a high-tech, competitive digital environment in the country. Ministries, departments and local authorities in the provinces, Ashgabat and Arkadag have been tasked with ensuring its implementation.
The Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan reviewed plans for digitalisation and industry development
31.01.2026President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov held another meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers via a digital system. The discussion focused on issues of legislation, economics, digitalisation, industry, culture and foreign policy. This was reported by TDH. Chairwoman of the Mejlis D. Gulmanova said that the country continues to update its legal framework. Amendments are currently being prepared to the Criminal and Criminal Procedure Codes, the Code of Administrative Offences, as well as the laws ‘On Migration’ and ‘On Fisheries and the Conservation of Aquatic Biological Resources’. The work is being carried out taking into account the proposals of the ministries and an analysis of international practice. At the same time, she said, the Mejlis is expanding its international contacts. The credentials of the Ambassador of the Republic of Chad were accepted, a meeting was held with the EU Special Representative for Central Asia, and deputies took part in UN events. The President of Turkmenistan noted the importance of the laws being adopted and instructed that the preparation of new drafts should continue. Then, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers H. Geldimyradov reported on the development of the banking system. He said that as part of the ‘Concept for the Development of the Digital Economy in Turkmenistan for 2026-2028,’ information and communication technologies are being introduced and the technical base of the Central Bank, the State Commercial Bank ‘Türkmenistan’ and the Joint-Stock Commercial Bank ‘Türkmenbaşy’ is being updated. The proposal was approved. Next, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers B. Amanov spoke about the work to ensure the consistent operation of the oil refineries of the State Concern ‘Türkmennebit’. He reported on measures for oil processing, supplying the domestic market and exporting products abroad. The proposals presented were also supported. After that, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers B. Annamammedov reported on plans to commission new facilities in 2026 in the velayats and Ashgabat. These were social and industrial buildings. The list of facilities was approved. Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers N. Atagulyev reported on the preparation of an exhibition of export products from the Republic of Turkey, which will be held in Ashgabat. About 100 companies have registered to participate. The President of Turkmenistan instructed that the event be organised to a high standard. Deputy Prime Minister B. Seyidova then presented information about the festival ‘Dünýäde ýaňlanýar ajap dessanym, toý tutýar Garaşsyz Türkmenistanym’, which will take place in March in Dashoguz velayat. The programme includes concerts, master classes and a scientific and practical conference. Preparations for the festival were approved. Deputy Chairwoman of the Cabinet of Ministers B. Orazdurdyeva reported on the establishment of the electronic journal ‘Scientific Research and Innovation’ at the Magtymguly Turkmen State University. The journal will be published in Turkmen, English and Russian. The President supported the initiative. Next, the Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers, Foreign Affairs Minister R. Meredov presented the Action Plan for 2026 to prepare for the proclamation of 2028 as the Year of International Law. The document provides for cooperation with the UN, the holding of international forums and educational programmes. The plan was approved. Concluding the main reports, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers M. Chakyev reported on measures to digitise the economy. He presented drafts of the State Programme and the Plan for its implementation. The President of Turkmenistan signed the relevant Resolution. During the meeting, other issues were also considered, on which decisions were taken.
Turkmenistan and Pakistan discussed joint educational projects
31.01.2026On 30 January, Atajan Movlamov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to Pakistan, met with Gulmina Bilal Ahmed, Chairwoman of the National Vocational Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC) of Pakistan. This was reported by the press service of the Embassy of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed prospects for bilateral cooperation, including the exchange of experience, joint capacity-building programmes and the development of technical and vocational education. Following the meeting, it was agreed to continue the dialogue and explore opportunities for joint educational projects, including those related to the teaching of Urdu in Turkmenistan.
The Ambassador of Turkmenistan took part in negotiations with the Commissioner of Korean Customs
31.01.2026On 30 January, Begench Durdyev, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to the Republic of Korea, attended an official dinner hosted by the Commissioner of the Korea Customs Service and the Ambassadors of Central Asian countries. This was reported by the press service of the Turkmen diplomatic mission. During the meeting, they talked about developing cooperation in customs, including sharing info, taking part in international projects and conferences, as well as training and professional development programmes. The Ambassador of Turkmenistan noted the active interaction between the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan and their Korean colleagues, as well as the participation of Turkmen specialists in Korean training initiatives.
Turkmenistan and Afghanistan discussed plans for the TAPI and TAP projects in 2026
31.01.2026Turkmenistan and Afghanistan are strengthening their strategic cooperation in 2026. Negotiations were held via videoconference between Turkmenistan's Foreign Affairs Minister Rashid Meredov and Afghanistan's Foreign Affairs Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, according to the news website Asmannews. The main focus was on cross-border projects — the TAPI gas pipeline, the TAP power line and rail links. The parties noted the progress made and stressed the need for coordination for visits by high-level delegations and new initiatives. In Herat province, a 91-kilometre section of the TAPI route has been prepared, along which work camps have already been set up. Construction of the Afghan segment is scheduled for completion by the end of 2026. The project strengthens the region's energy infrastructure and creates new jobs.
Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan discussed the development of their partnership and plans for the current year
31.01.2026Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to Azerbaijan Gurbanmammet Elyasov held talks with Assistant to the President of Azerbaijan and Head of the Foreign Policy Department of the Presidential Administration Hikmet Hajiyev. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the state of bilateral relations, highly appreciated the results of 2025 and noted the active development of cultural and humanitarian exchanges, as well as mutual visits at the highest level. It was noted that the initiatives of the leaders of Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan contribute to the strengthening of strategic partnership and the expansion of cooperation in energy, transport (including through the Middle Corridor), trade and culture. In addition, upcoming international forums and events in 2026 were discussed, including the 8th Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia and Azerbaijan, where Azerbaijan will participate as a full member for the first time, which will strengthen regional dialogue and cooperation.
A project for the ‘Serahs–Mary–Serhetabat’ motorway has been presented in Turkmenistan
31.01.2026The ‘Ojar Aziya’ holding company is proposing to implement an investment infrastructure project to build the ‘Serahs–Mary–Serhetabat’ expressway, approximately 450 km long, with access roads approximately 35 km long. This was reported by the online publication ‘Business Turkmenistan’. The route will pass through the Ahal and Mary velayats and will become a link between the ‘North-South’, ‘Lapis Lazuli’ and ‘East-West’ international corridors, strengthening Turkmenistan's transit and logistics potential. The project is expected to be implemented without budgetary funds, on a commercial basis with paid operation. The motorway is expected to ensure the growth of transit flows, the development of logistics and service infrastructure, the creation of jobs and the expansion of international trade relations.
Ashgabat to unite the global textile industry
30.01.2026The International Exhibition ‘TurkmenTextile Expo’ returns for its second season: from 4 to 6 June, Ashgabat will once again welcome key players in the textile industry. This was reported by the news agency Orient. After a successful debut in 2025, the project is moving to a new level, expanding its format and increasing the number of foreign participants. The exhibition is organised by the Ministry of Textile Industry and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan, co-organised by ‘TurkmenExpo’, which emphasises its international status and investment attractiveness. ‘TurkmenTextile Expo 2026’ will bring together textile and clothing manufacturers, fashion brands and designers, technology and equipment suppliers, as well as buyers, distributors and investors. The programme includes exhibitions, B2B negotiations and fashion shows featuring Turkmen and foreign designers. The organisers will provide comprehensive support to foreign participants, from visas and logistics to individual business programmes. The exhibition is positioned as a strategic platform for developing partnerships and strengthening Turkmenistan's role as one of the centres of the textile business in Central Asia.
Turkmenistan and Turkey prepare for intergovernmental commission meeting
30.01.2026The 9th meeting of the Joint Turkmen-Turkish Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation is scheduled for April 2026 in Ashgabat. This was announced by Turkish Ambassador to Turkmenistan Ahmet Demirok at a press conference on 28 January, according to Turkmenportal. The meeting will be co-chaired by Turkish Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz and Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan Nokerguly Atagulyev. According to the Ambassador, the commission remains a key mechanism for discussing economic ties between the two countries. The previous meeting was held on 25 February 2025 in Ankara. The parties are currently preparing for the meeting.
Turkmenistan and Russia held another round of political consultations
30.01.2026On 29 January, Ashgabat hosted another round of Turkmen-Russian political consultations with the participation of Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Ahmet Gurbanov and Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation Mihail Galuzin. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The parties exchanged views on key issues on the bilateral agenda and confirmed the strategic nature of their relations. During the talks, it was noted that cooperation is actively developing in both bilateral and multilateral formats, including interaction within the UN, the CIS and the ‘Central Asia-Russia’ format. The diplomats confirmed their interest in expanding dialogue between foreign ministries within the framework of the Cooperation Programme between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation for 2025–2026.
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