Representatives of leading Azerbaijani media outlets have arrived in Ashgabat to cover the Days of Azerbaijani Culture in Turkmenistan, according to the IIC. The media group includes journalists from Azerbaijan Television (AzTV), the Public Television and Radio Broadcasting Company (İTV), CBC and REAL TV channels, as well as the news agencies Qafqazinfo and Report. Azerbaijani media are covering events within the cultural program, including exhibitions, concerts, film screenings, and creative meetings. Information support is provided by the International Information Center of Turkmenistan, which is covering key events of cultural exchange between the two countries. During the visit, representatives of Turkmen and Azerbaijani media are also exchanging professional experience, conducting joint filming, and discussing prospects for further cooperation in the media sphere.
On June 5, Turkmenistan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Rashid Meredov held a meeting with the Minister of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Adil Karimli, who arrived in Turkmenistan to take part in the Azerbaijani Culture Days. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The two sides discussed issues of cultural and humanitarian cooperation and emphasized the role of culture in strengthening ties between the peoples of the two countries. Special attention was paid to expanding cooperation between cultural institutions, museums, libraries, creative groups, and specialized educational organizations. Participants of the meeting highlighted the importance of the Azerbaijani Culture Days in Turkmenistan for the development of bilateral contacts. The program includes screenings of feature films, lectures on Azerbaijan’s literary and artistic heritage, exhibitions, and a gala concert featuring Azerbaijani artists. The events are taking place over three days in Ashgabat and Arkadag. During the talks, the sides also discussed prospects for implementing joint cultural projects, organizing exhibitions, and expanding contacts between representatives of the creative intelligentsia of both countries. In addition, the parties exchanged views on cooperation within international organizations and cultural platforms, and considered new directions for Turkmen-Azerbaijani cultural and humanitarian partnership. At the end of the meeting, mutual interest in further developing bilateral relations was reaffirmed.
A ceremonial opening of the Days of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan took place on June 5 in Ashgabat at the Mukamlar Palace of the State Cultural Center of Turkmenistan. This was reported by AsmanNews. The event was attended by representatives of the cultural sectors of both countries, as well as artists and public figures. Speakers emphasized the importance of cultural cooperation in strengthening Turkmen-Azerbaijani relations and expressed gratitude to the leadership of both states for supporting humanitarian ties. It was noted that cooperation between Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan is steadily developing across various fields, including culture, with mutual visits and joint projects playing an important role. The central event of the first day was a concert featuring Azerbaijani and Turkmen artistic ensembles. Performers included the Azerbaijan State Orchestra of Folk Instruments named after Fikret Amirov, the Azerbaijan State Chamber Orchestra named after Gara Garayev, the percussion ensemble of the Azerbaijan State Dance Ensemble, as well as well-known performers from both countries. The program also included joint performances by Turkmen and Azerbaijani artists. One of the highlights of the evening was the performance of the “Küştdepdi” dance featuring the Turkmen “Galkynyş” ensemble and an Azerbaijani soloist. As part of the cultural days, the Museum of Fine Arts of Turkmenistan named after Great Saparmurat Turkmenbashi opened an exhibition titled “Pearl of Azerbaijan’s National Heritage.” The exhibition includes carpets, jewelry, embroidery, traditional headwear, and other exhibits from the collection of the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum. In addition, Azerbaijani feature films were screened at the “Ashgabat” cinema. The cultural program will continue in the city of Arkadag. Planned events include a scientific conference dedicated to the works of classical Turkmen and Azerbaijani literature, a photo exhibition, as well as a joint concert of artists from both countries featuring the Galkynyş National Equestrian Games Group.
On June 5, an International Scientific and Practical Conference titled “Environmental Well-Being and International Cooperation in the Year of ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan – Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’” was held in the building of the Agricultural Complex of the country in Ashgabat. The event was dedicated to World Environment Day, according to TDH. The forum brought together heads of relevant ministries and public organizations of Turkmenistan, as well as representatives of international and regional organizations, including UN agencies. Before the plenary session began, a welcoming address from the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, was read out. The message emphasized the importance of the rational use of natural resources, biodiversity conservation, and ensuring environmental well-being. The conference noted that Turkmenistan is implementing measures to combat climate change, preserve natural ecosystems, and expand international environmental cooperation. Among the key steps highlighted were the fulfillment of obligations under the Paris Agreement and accession to the Global Methane Pledge. An exhibition showcasing the country’s achievements in environmental protection was organized for forum participants. During the plenary session, speeches were delivered by the UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan, Dmitry Shlapachenko, the UNDP Resident Representative in Turkmenistan, Narine Saakyan, and the UNICEF Representative in Turkmenistan, Jalpa Ratna. Representatives of international organizations emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation in combating climate change, promoting the sustainable use of natural resources, and advancing the principles of sustainable development. Particular attention was given to the preparation of Turkmenistan’s first National State of the Environment Report for 2017–2022 and the initiative to establish a Regional Climate Technology Center for the countries of Central Asia. Following the plenary session, the conference continued its work in thematic sections. Participants discussed the development of environmental legislation, the introduction of environmentally safe technologies, the transition to a green economy, and measures aimed at improving the environmental situation in the Aral Sea region. At the conclusion of the forum, participants adopted an address to the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, expressing gratitude for his attention to environmental protection issues and for promoting international cooperation in the environmental sphere.
At the SPIEF 2026 session, “Digital Future: Common Development Vectors, Challenges and Solutions,” Turkmenistan’s Minister of Communications, Hajymyrat Khudaygulyyev, presented the country’s plans for the development of artificial intelligence. This was reported by the Orient news agency. He announced the establishment of an Artificial Intelligence Competence Center within Turkmentelecom, which will focus on research, support for national digital priorities, and the training of specialists. Joint pilot projects with international partners were also announced in the fields of transport and logistics, oil and gas forecasting, and water resource management in agriculture. The minister noted that the capacity of international internet channels has increased tenfold over the past three years, a development expected to accelerate the growth of digital services and cross-border data exchange. Key focus areas include artificial intelligence, big data, blockchain, and cybersecurity. In addition, several infrastructure initiatives were presented, including the Serhetabat–Herat fiber-optic line and a submarine cable across the Caspian Sea, which are expected to strengthen digital connectivity between Europe and Asia.
President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov held a meeting on June 5 with Azerbaijan’s Minister of Culture Adil Karimli, who arrived in Turkmenistan on an official visit. This was reported by AsmanNews. During the meeting, the Azerbaijani minister conveyed greetings and best wishes from President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev to the head of state and the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. He also emphasized the importance of cultural cooperation and the organization of mutual Culture Days in strengthening relations between the two countries. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov conveyed his best wishes in return to the Azerbaijani leader and expressed confidence that the Days of Azerbaijani Culture in Turkmenistan would contribute to the further development of bilateral humanitarian ties. The parties noted that Turkmen-Azerbaijani cooperation continues to develop steadily in the political, diplomatic, trade, economic, cultural, and humanitarian spheres. It was emphasized that cooperation in culture and the arts occupies an important place on the bilateral agenda. The head of state recalled that the Days of Turkmen Culture were successfully held in Azerbaijan in October last year. According to him, such events help strengthen friendship and mutual understanding between the peoples of the two countries. It was noted that this year the Days of Azerbaijani Culture are being held in Ashgabat and the city of Arkadag. The program includes concerts, exhibitions, and other cultural events. The parties also paid special attention to the preservation and promotion of their shared historical and cultural heritage, as well as to organizing events dedicated to the works of prominent representatives of Turkmen and Azerbaijani literature and culture. At the conclusion of the meeting, both sides reaffirmed their readiness to further develop cultural and humanitarian cooperation between Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan.
Sultan of Oman Haitham bin Tarik sent a congratulatory message to the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, on the occasion of Eid al-Adha (Kurban Bayramy). This was reported by TDH. In his message, the Sultan conveyed his wishes for good health and happiness to the head of state, and prosperity and well-being to the people of Turkmenistan. Haitham bin Tarik also expressed hope that prayers and sincere wishes would contribute to strengthening peace, unity, and harmony within the Muslim Ummah.
President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov congratulated King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden on Sweden's National Day. This was reported by the online news source AsmanNews. In his message, the head of state wished the King of Sweden good health and happiness, and wished the people of the country peace, well-being and prosperity.
On June 4, a meeting was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan between Deputy Foreign Minister Myahri Byashimova and the Head of the UNICEF Representation in Turkmenistan, Jalpa Ratna. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The sides noted the effectiveness of long-standing cooperation between Turkmenistan and UNICEF. Special attention was given to the significance of recent events dedicated to the International Day for the Protection of Children, which were held in Turkmenistan with the participation of UN agencies and with the support of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Care. During the meeting, the parties discussed ongoing and prospective joint projects being implemented in Turkmenistan. They also considered preparations for upcoming joint events.
The delegation of Turkmenistan is taking part in the second meeting of the Termez Dialogue on connectivity between Central and South Asia, which is being held in Tashkent from June 4 to 6. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The Turkmen delegation includes representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Center for Strategic Studies of the Institute of International Relations under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, and the Ministry of Finance and Economy. The forum brought together representatives of government institutions, international organizations, expert and analytical centers from countries of Europe, the CIS, the Americas, the Middle East, Central and South Asia. The main topics of discussion included the development of interregional cooperation, strengthening transport and transit connectivity, expanding trade and economic ties, ensuring energy security, and creating sustainable logistics routes. Participants also reviewed the implementation of major infrastructure projects aimed at developing transport and energy corridors. In this context, the role of projects involving Turkmenistan was noted, including the Turkmenistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan–India (TAPI) gas pipeline, power transmission lines, and fiber-optic communication systems. Special attention was paid to promoting the socio-economic development of Afghanistan and its integration into regional cooperation processes. The forum agenda also included issues of climate change, rational use of water resources, environmental security, human capital development, educational and scientific cooperation, as well as the introduction of digital technologies.
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Mekhrie Bäşimova, held a meeting on June 4 with the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the State of Palestine to Turkmenistan, Rana Abu Hijleh. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. During the talks, the two sides discussed current issues of Turkmen-Palestinian cooperation in areas of mutual interest. Particular attention was paid by the diplomats to cultural and humanitarian cooperation. In particular, they considered the possibility of holding joint events aimed at preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the two countries.
Vice President of the Republic of Turkey Cevdet Yılmaz visited the International Exhibition-Fair “Turkmentextile Expo – 2026”, held in Ashgabat. In a conversation with media representatives, he noted the high level of Turkmen-Turkish cooperation and outlined promising areas of interaction, according to the publication “Turkmenistan: Golden Age”. According to Cevdet Yılmaz, Turkmenistan is a friendly and strategic partner for Turkey. He emphasized that bilateral relations continue to develop on the basis of shared historical, cultural, and economic ties. One of the key areas of cooperation, the Turkish Vice President said, is the development of transport, logistics, and energy projects. In particular, he referred to the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (the “Middle Corridor”), which is seen as an important tool for expanding trade relations between Asia and Europe. Special attention was paid to energy cooperation. The Turkish side noted the importance of projects for supplying Turkmen natural gas to the Turkish market and, through its territory, to European markets. Speaking about trade and economic cooperation, Cevdet Yılmaz said that the volume of mutual trade between the two countries amounted to 2.2 billion dollars last year. According to him, the parties aim to increase this figure to 5 billion dollars. He noted that the “Turkmentextile Expo – 2026” exhibition contributes to the development of business contacts and the expansion of cooperation between entrepreneurs of the two countries. It was also noted that the volume of Turkish investments and construction contracts in Turkmenistan has reached 56 billion dollars. Turkish companies continue to participate in the implementation of infrastructure projects in the country. The Vice President of Turkey separately highlighted the development of the city of Arkadag, emphasizing its importance as a modern project in urban planning and digital technologies.