During his visit to the People’s Republic of China, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, held an official meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping on 18 March. This was reported by AsmanNews.

The negotiations took place following a welcoming ceremony and a joint photo session. Xi Jinping noted that the visit is seen as confirmation of the high level of bilateral relations, and conveyed greetings to President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, congratulating the leadership of Turkmenistan on the Nowruz holiday.

Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov emphasised that Turkmenistan attaches priority to the development of cooperation with China and conveyed his own greetings in return. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of cooperation, noting the expansion of partnership within the framework of the UN and the ‘Central Asia–China’ format.

It was noted that bilateral relations are developing as a comprehensive strategic partnership and cover politics, the economy, trade, science, education and culture. Particular attention was paid to the fuel and energy sector, including projects at the ‘Galkynysh’ field.

The parties also explored opportunities for cooperation in the transport and logistics sector within the framework of aligning the ‘Revival of the Great Silk Road’ strategy with the ‘Belt and Road’ initiative. Projects in the fields of science, education, healthcare and agriculture were discussed, including the introduction of technologies and the development of ‘green’ energy.

Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov presented Xi Jinping with an invitation from the President of Turkmenistan to visit the country. At the conclusion of the meeting, the parties expressed confidence in the further strengthening of their partnership.

As part of the gift-exchange ceremony, an Ahal-Teke horse named Gadyrly was presented to the President of the People’s Republic of China on behalf of the President of Turkmenistan. Xi Jinping expressed his gratitude for the gift, noting the high esteem in which Ahal-Teke horses are held in China.

The visit of the National Leader of the Turkmen people to China continues.