Policy
Turkmenistan and Tajikistan held political consultations
21.08.2026On 20 August 2026, political consultations took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan between the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan and the Republic of Tajikistan. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the bilateral agenda and issues relating to the further development of political and diplomatic cooperation. They noted the effectiveness of cooperation within the framework of the United Nations. The Republic of Tajikistan has co-sponsored more than 30 resolutions adopted on the initiative of Turkmenistan. Particular attention was paid to trade and economic cooperation and the growth in trade turnover. Prospects for cooperation in the energy, transport and communications sectors, as well as in agriculture, trade and investment, were discussed. The intensification of economic partnership was noted. This year, Dushanbe hosted the 14th meeting of the Joint Turkmen-Tajik Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific and Technical Cooperation and the second meeting of the Turkmen-Tajik Business Council. The parties also discussed cultural and humanitarian cooperation and joint initiatives for the near future. Following the consultations, both sides reaffirmed their readiness to continue constructive dialogue and strengthen friendly Turkmen-Tajik relations. On the same day, a Programme of Cooperation between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Tajikistan for 2027–2028 was signed.
Turkmenistan and the IOM discussed cooperation on migration
21.08.2026Vepa Hajiyev, Permanent Representative of Turkmenistan to the United Nations, met with Pär Liljert, Director of the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) Office to the UN in New York. This was reported by the IIC. The parties discussed current cooperation and identified priorities for further collaboration. They also exchanged views on regional developments and trends, humanitarian issues and the management of migration processes. During the meeting, Turkmenistan reaffirmed its interest in continuing to cooperate with UN agencies on migration-related matters.
A round-table discussion was held at the Consulate-General of Turkmenistan in Mashhad
21.08.2026On 19 August, a round-table discussion was held at the Consulate-General of Turkmenistan in Mashhad, dedicated to the forthcoming session of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan and the UN General Assembly resolution ‘International Year of Law, 2028’, adopted on the initiative of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the press office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. Before the event began, participants viewed an exhibition of books by the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, and the Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, National Leader of the Turkmen people Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, as well as works of art and photographic material on the country’s historical and cultural heritage. The round-table discussion was attended by representatives of the Turkmen diaspora, the magazines ‘Magtymguly adyndaky’ and ‘Gülistan ykdysady’, the news agencies ‘Ülkämiz’ and ‘Sedaýe Gonbad’, the cultural and healthcare sectors, as well as staff from the Consulate-General of Turkmenistan. Participants highlighted the significance of the upcoming session of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, which is to take place on 23 September in Ashgabat. The session is scheduled to review the country’s domestic and foreign policy developments and set long-term priorities. Particular attention was paid to the initiative by the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, to declare 2028 the Year of International Law. The relevant resolution of the UN General Assembly was adopted with the co-sponsorship of 78 states. The meeting concluded with an exchange of views on promoting Turkmenistan’s peace-seeking initiatives and developing multilateral cooperation.
The President of Turkmenistan received the Tajik Foreign Minister
21.08.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, received the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Tajikistan, Sirojiddin Muhriddin. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed preparations for the meeting of the CIS Council of Heads of State and the consultative meeting of the leaders of the Central Asian countries and Azerbaijan at the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone. Particular attention was paid to expanding trade and developing cooperation in agriculture, energy and logistics. On the same day, inter-ministerial political consultations took place in the capital of Turkmenistan. The parties coordinated their positions on cooperation within the UN, the CIS and the SCO. Following the talks, a Programme of Cooperation between the foreign ministries of Turkmenistan and Tajikistan for 2027–2028 was signed.
The President of Turkmenistan inspected the modernisation work at the ‘Arçman’ health resort
20.08.2026On 19 August, the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, visited the ‘Arçman’ sanatorium in the Baherden etrap of the Ahal velayat. The Head of State inspected the progress of construction work on the new complex and the modernisation of existing facilities. The work is in its final stages, according to the TDH news agency. The Minister of Health and Medical Industry, M. Gayipov, reported on the condition of the facilities, their equipment and improvements. The Head of State was presented with plans for the new 400-bed sanatorium building, the modernised ‘A’ and ‘B’ blocks, as well as the canteen, herbal bar, a tea house, a 300-seat conference hall, a drinking fountain, children’s playrooms, a gym, a balneotherapy block and a four-storey car park. Serdar Berdimuhamedov reviewed the designs, made the necessary adjustments and instructed that the work be completed within the set deadlines whilst meeting quality requirements. The President of Turkmenistan also ordered that closer supervision be exercised over the complex’s preparation for commissioning, which is scheduled for this year and will coincide with Healthcare and Medical Industry Workers’ Day. The Head of State emphasised the importance of landscape design and the preservation of the ecological environment on the sanatorium’s grounds. Specific instructions concerned the effective utilisation of ‘Arçman’s’ health and wellness potential, scientific research into the reserves of therapeutic water, the professional development of medical staff and the introduction of digital technologies. The President of Turkmenistan also inspected the treatment rooms and guest rooms in the new building. Particular attention was paid to modern medical equipment, diagnostics and the quality of services. The sanatorium features treatment rooms for mineral water therapy, hydrotherapy, halotherapy and aromatherapy, various types of baths, including a hammam, as well as fitness centres and a children’s playroom. At the drinking fountain, the Head of State instructed that doctors’ consultations be organised regularly on the correct use of mineral water, including its temperature and recommended intake levels. Serdar Berdimuhamedov also instructed that comfortable conditions be provided for holidaymakers, including the improvement of the grounds, opportunities for walks and physical exercise, and the proper organisation of parking facilities. He recommended that particular attention be paid to the quality of the sanatorium’s services during periods of increased visitor numbers.
The Tajik Foreign Affairs Minister has arrived in Ashgabat
20.08.2026A delegation from Tajikistan, led by Foreign Affairs Minister Sirojiddin Muhriddin, has arrived in Ashgabat for a three-day visit. The main purpose of the visit is to hold political consultations between the foreign ministries of the two countries, according to IIC of Turkmenistan. On the first day, the delegation visited the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan and viewed the exhibition at the ‘Kids Expo: Everything for Children’ international trade fair. The Tajik delegation also laid flowers at the Monument to Independence of Turkmenistan and at the monument to the Tajik poet and thinker Sayido Nasafiy in the ‘Magtymguly Pyragy’ cultural and park complex. The programme of the visit included a tour of the Ashgabat International Equestrian Sports Complex. The Tajik delegation will remain in Ashgabat until 21 August.
Turkmenistan and Japan discussed the development of bilateral relations
20.08.2026On 19 August, a meeting took place in Tokyo between A. Bayramov, Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Japan, and T. Ishigaki, the newly appointed Special Representative of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Japan for Central Asia and the Caucasus. The parties discussed issues of bilateral cooperation and high-level visits, according to the press office of the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Japan. During the meeting, the rapid pace of development in bilateral relations was noted, underpinned by the two visits by the President of Turkmenistan to Japan which took place in 2025. The parties exchanged views on the further development of political and diplomatic, trade and economic, and cultural and humanitarian ties. Particular attention was paid to preparations for the meeting of the Turkmen-Japanese High-Level Committees on Economic Cooperation, which is scheduled for December 2026 in Tokyo.
The MFA of Turkmenistan discussed the development of Turkmen-Iranian relations
19.08.2026On 18 August, a meeting took place at the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan between Ahmet Gurbanov, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan, and Seyed Mostafa Hosseinipour, the newly appointed Consul-General of the Islamic Republic of Iran in the city of Mary. This was reported by the press office of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. At the start of the meeting, the Consul-General presented his consular commission, after which he was presented with his consular exequatur. The parties discussed current issues relating to Turkmen-Iranian cooperation and the further development of friendly and good-neighbourly relations. The Consul-General expressed his readiness to contribute to the strengthening of bilateral ties and the intensification of consular cooperation.
The President of Turkmenistan addressed the participants at ‘Kids Expo: Everything for Children’
19.08.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, congratulated the participants and guests of the international exhibition and fair ‘Kids Expo: Everything for Children’ on its opening in Ashgabat. This was reported by the news agency TDH. The message noted that in Turkmenistan, priority is given to the all-round development of children and young people, their physical health, spiritual upbringing, education and mastery of modern technologies. To this end, the country is creating the necessary conditions and opportunities for the development of knowledge, skills and creative abilities. The Head of State emphasised that the annual ‘Kids Expo: Everything for Children’ exhibition provides specialist companies, educational centres and international organisations with an opportunity to showcase products, services, modern innovations and promising areas of development for children. The exhibition features sections dedicated to cognitive development, creativity, art, music and sport. The event also includes competitions and contests for children. Serdar Berdimuhamedov noted the importance of preparing the younger generation for social life, developing their creative potential, and fostering their moral and patriotic education. The President of Turkmenistan wished the participants and guests of the exhibition good health, well-being and success.
Turkmenistan and the UAE discussed the development of bilateral relations
18.08.2026On 17 August, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan M. Byashimova held a meeting with Ahmed Alhay Hamad Khamis Alhameli, the Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to Turkmenistan. This was reported by the press office of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the state of Turkmen-Emirati cooperation and prospects for its development, as well as the organisation of joint events. Particular attention was paid to cooperation on international and regional forums, the expansion of trade and economic ties, and the development of cultural and humanitarian contacts. During the meeting, the parties reaffirmed their interest in further strengthening friendly relations and developing bilateral partnership.
A meeting took place between the Turkmen Ambassador and Iran’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs
18.08.2026On 16 August 2026, I. Gayipov, Ambassador of Turkmenistan to the Islamic Republic of Iran, met with Mehdi Sobhani, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of Turkmen-Iranian cooperation, as well as topical issues of bilateral relations. Particular attention was paid to trade and economic ties and to strengthening the role of the Joint Turkmen-Iranian Inter-governmental Commission on Economic Cooperation. The interlocutors reaffirmed their readiness to develop relations on the basis of good neighbourliness, mutual respect and trust.
Turkmenistan is strengthening international cooperation
17.08.2026The past week in Turkmenistan was marked by events in the fields of international cooperation, environmental diplomacy, regional development and sport. This was reported by the news agency TDH. On 12 August, events dedicated to Caspian Sea Day took place in the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone. The main event was the scientific and practical conference ‘Preserving the Ecosystem of the Caspian Sea: Regional Cooperation and Sustainable Development’. The forum was attended by representatives of the Government, ministries and departments of Turkmenistan, scientific institutions, diplomatic missions, and international and regional organisations. Participants discussed issues relating to the conservation of the Caspian Sea ecosystem, the protection of rare species of flora and fauna, the establishment of a Caspian scientific partnership, and the development of trade, economic and transport links between the Caspian states. Particular attention was paid to the role of young people in combating climate change and ensuring environmental security. As part of the events, the Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Foreign Affairs Minister, R. Meredov, held meetings with representatives of the International Organisation for Migration, the European Union, the United Nations and the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe. The parties discussed the sustainable development of the Caspian region, environmental protection and environmental diplomacy. Sports competitions were also held at ‘Awaza’, involving heads and representatives of diplomatic missions from foreign countries and international organisations. Another significant event was the working visit by the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, to the Mary velayat and Afghanistan. In Afghanistan, the Hero Arkadag held negotiations with Abdul Ghani Baradar, Deputy Chairman of the Afghan Cabinet of Ministers for Economic Affairs. The parties discussed the development of trade and economic ties, the ‘Turkmenistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan–India’ gas pipeline project, transport and electricity infrastructure, as well as digital cooperation. Particular attention was paid to the ‘Serhetabat–Herat’ gas pipeline, the ‘Turkmenistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan’ fibre-optic communication line project and the ‘Lapis Lazuli’ international transport corridor. The parties also discussed the training of specialists for the gas sector, increasing the number of Afghan students in Turkmenistan, the development of industrial infrastructure in Herat Province, and the strengthening of the legal framework for bilateral cooperation. Following the meeting, the State Concern ‘Türkmengaz’ and Afghanistan’s State Corporation ‘Afghan Gas’ signed a Memorandum of Understanding. The document provides for joint work to establish infrastructure in Herat Province to supply industrial enterprises, power stations and the population with Turkmen natural gas. On 13 August, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan visited the city of Arkadag. He familiarised himself with the projects for the second phase of construction and held a working meeting with the heads of the relevant agencies. D. Orazov, Chairman of the State Committee for the Construction of the City of Arkadag under the President of Turkmenistan, and G. Mammedova, the city’s Governor, presented plans for a specialised secondary school with an in-depth foreign language programme, a nursery school with capacity for 320 children, and a sports complex. Issues relating to the development of football were considered separately. D. Orazov reported that the ‘Arkadag’ team had qualified for the group stage of the AFC Champions League 2. Hero Arkadag asked that the athletes be wished every success in their upcoming competitions. During the meeting, the pace of construction of the second phase of the project, as well as the quality and timing of their commissioning, were also discussed. Particular attention was paid to the organisation of the specialised school’s operations, its curriculum, and the provision of digital updates to parents regarding pupils’ academic progress and discipline. In addition, it was announced that the name of the 30,000-seat mosque currently under construction in the city – ‘Arkadagyň ruhy metjidi’ – had been registered. A proposal to grant the madrasah being built next to the mosque the status of a higher education institution was also considered. On 14 August, a festive sadaqah was held in the town of Arkadag to mark the registration of the ‘Arkadagyň ruhy metjidi’ mosque. Those attending the event also visited the Gokdepe Mosque, where they performed Friday prayers.
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