Policy
Hero Arkadag spoke about cooperation between Turkmenistan and Iran
07.07.2026The National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, gave an interview to Seyed Mohsen Hosseini, a journalist with the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), during his visit to the Islamic Republic of Iran at the request of the Iranian side. This was reported by the online news site AsmanNews. According to the source, the conversation touched upon issues relating to Turkmen-Iranian relations, recollections of meetings with the late Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, as well as topics such as peace, regional cooperation and humanitarian interaction. Hero Arkadag noted that Turkmenistan and Iran have maintained good-neighbourly and fraternal relations for many years, based on mutual respect, historical ties and shared spiritual and cultural values. Speaking about his meetings with Iran’s Supreme Leader, the Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan stated that he first met him in 1998 during a visit to Iran whilst serving as the Minister of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan. These meetings continued subsequently whilst he held other government posts, including the office of Head of State of Turkmenistan. “In my view, all our discussions were very important. On the political front, we often discussed peace and prosperity not only for the two countries, but also for the region and the whole world. As you know, Turkmenistan is the only country in the world whose neutral status has been recognised three times by the UN. That is precisely why we frequently exchanged views on issues relating to peacekeeping and sustainable development,” emphasised Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. As noted, particular attention was paid to the development of joint infrastructure. Over the years of cooperation, projects have been implemented to build roads and railways, bridges, gas pipelines and power lines. Issues relating to the study of our shared cultural heritage, cooperation within the scientific community and the preservation of spiritual values were also discussed. The Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan emphasised that Turkmenistan is a secular state, whilst at the same time attaching great importance to the preservation of national traditions and religious values. Hero Arkadag also noted the significance of the guidance provided by Iran’s Supreme Leader on matters of the spiritual and moral upbringing of the younger generation. Responding to a question about contemporary international challenges, Hero Arkadag stated that Turkmenistan consistently adheres to a policy of neutrality, openness and humanism. The Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan recalled that during difficult periods, the country had kept its borders open and provided humanitarian aid. “There are no winners in war. After all, a bullet does not choose its target — whether it is a child or a soldier,” emphasised the National Leader of the Turkmen people. At the end of the interview, the IRIB journalist, in turn, thanked the National Leader of the Turkmen people for the interview, as well as for the condolences and support expressed to the Iranian people.
The Chinese Ambassador spoke about the progress made in Turkmen-Chinese relations
04.07.2026The Chinese Ambassador to Turkmenistan, Ji Shumin, stated that Turkmen-Chinese relations have reached a new level due to active high-level contacts and successful cooperation in various fields. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. According to the Ambassador, a new phase of cooperation following 2012 has given further impetus to the development of bilateral ties, with the most notable results being achieved in the energy sector. The diplomat recalled this year’s visit to China by the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, and his negotiations with Chinese President Xi Jinping, which resulted in the identification of key areas for further cooperation. Furthermore, in April, Ding Xuexiang, Deputy Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China, visited Turkmenistan with a view to implementing the agreements reached. According to the Ambassador, the visit contributed to the development of cooperation not only in the energy sector, but also in non-resource sectors and in the humanitarian sphere.
Turkmenistan and Iran have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation
04.07.2026On 3 July, as part of his visit to the Islamic Republic of Iran, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, visited the ‘Sarvestan’ Palace in the ‘Saadabad’ complex, where negotiations were held with President Masoud Pezeshkian. This was reported by the news agency TDH. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, welcoming the distinguished guest, emphasised the importance of developing multifaceted cooperation with Turkmenistan. Masoud Pezeshkian expressed his confidence that the visit would give further impetus to bilateral relations. Hero Arkadag thanked him for his hospitality and noted the high level of inter-state dialogue, based on the principles of good neighbourliness and mutual respect. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov conveyed greetings and best wishes to Masoud Pezeshkian from the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov. In response, the President of Iran extended his best wishes to the leadership of Turkmenistan and noted the dynamic development of the bilateral partnership. During the negotiations, it was emphasised that strengthening relations with neighbouring states is a key priority of Turkmenistan’s foreign policy, which is based on the principles of positive neutrality, good-neighbourliness and international cooperation. The parties noted the long-standing nature of their relations, based on mutual goodwill, and expressed their confidence that the meeting would lay the foundations for the further development of Turkmen-Iranian cooperation. At the conclusion of the meeting, the parties reaffirmed their readiness to strengthen friendly and fraternal ties across a wide range of areas and exchanged mutual good wishes.
Turkmenistan and Japan held political consultations
04.07.2026On 3 July 2026, political consultations took place at the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan between the Foreign Affairs Ministries of Turkmenistan and Japan. This was reported by the press office of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The Turkmen delegation was led by Myahri Byashimova, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan. The Japanese delegation was led by Masaki Ishikawa, Special Representative for Central Asian Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan. The parties discussed a wide range of issues relating to bilateral and regional cooperation. It was noted that relations are underpinned by regular, trust-based dialogue at the highest state and government levels. They reaffirmed their readiness to further strengthen coordination within international organisations, primarily the UN, with a view to maintaining global security and sustainable development. Particular attention was paid to cooperation within the ‘Central Asia + Japan’ framework and to the implementation of agreements previously reached following summits and high-level meetings. In the political segment, the parties noted the active nature of inter-parliamentary contacts and the importance of the work carried out by the friendship groups between the parliaments of the two countries. In the economic segment of the consultations, the progress of joint investment projects was reviewed. Positive trends in cooperation were noted in the gas-chemical and energy sectors, as well as in the transport and logistics sector. The role of the Turkmen-Japanese and Japanese-Turkmen Committees on Economic Cooperation was emphasised. The parties also discussed the development of people-to-people ties. They discussed expanding cooperation in the fields of science and education, supporting the study of the Japanese language in Turkmenistan, and developing cultural exchange. Following the meeting, the parties reaffirmed their commitment to further deepening their partnership. It was noted that regular inter-ministerial consultations remain an important mechanism for developing cooperation.
Turkmenistan highlighted the role of the Trans-Caspian Corridor at a meeting in the European Parliament
04.07.2026A high-level round-table discussion on the topic ‘The Trans-Caspian Corridor as a Factor in Strengthening the European Union’s Strategic Autonomy’ was held at the European Parliament in Brussels. The event took place with the support of Ilhan Kyuchyuk, Member of the European Parliament. This was reported by the press office of the Turkmen diplomatic mission. Opening remarks were made by Ilhan Kyuchyuk, the Ambassador of Turkmenistan Sapar Palvanov, the Ambassador of Uzbekistan Gayrat Fazilov and the Ambassador of Kazakhstan Roman Vassilenko. The participation of representatives from Central Asia underscored the regional significance of the discussion and the shared interest in developing sustainable transport links between Central Asia and the European Union. During his speech, Sapar Palvanov noted that, in today’s world, transport connectivity goes beyond a mere technical issue and is directly linked to the stability of supply chains, strategic autonomy and the diversification of routes. According to him, this also affects states’ ability to adapt to changes in the international situation. The Ambassador emphasised that the Trans-Caspian transport route represents an additional strategic corridor for Europe, linking the European space with Central Asia and the wider Asian region via the South Caucasus and the Caspian Sea. He also stated that, for Turkmenistan, this corridor forms part of the national transport policy. He said that the country’s geographical location presents both opportunities and responsibilities — to act as a reliable and predictable partner within the international transport system. It was specifically noted that the Trans-Caspian Corridor should be viewed as a comprehensive transport ecosystem, encompassing ports, vessels, rail and road infrastructure, customs procedures, digital solutions, logistics companies and private-sector involvement. Participants at the round table praised the route’s growing role in strengthening ties between the European Union, Central Asia, the South Caucasus and the wider Eurasian region. It was emphasised that the corridor is important not only for trade and logistics, but also for the resilience of supply chains and regional cooperation. The programme included two panel sessions: ‘Central Asia and the Trans-Caspian Corridor: An Integrated Connectivity Architecture’ and ‘From Strategy to Investment: Global Gateway and EU-Central Asia Partnership’. The session was moderated by Derya Soysal, an expert on Central Asia and a PhD student at Tashkent State University of Oriental Studies. During the discussions, the efforts of Central Asian countries to develop infrastructure, digitise procedures and strengthen regional coordination were highlighted. Following the meeting, the need for further cooperation between the EU, the countries of Central Asia and the South Caucasus, international financial institutions and the private sector was emphasised. According to the participants, the development of the Trans-Caspian route should be based on specific projects, investments and digital solutions.
The Hero Arkadag’s visit to Iran has given new impetus to cooperation between Ashgabat and Tehran
04.07.2026On 3 July, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, paid a working visit to the Islamic Republic of Iran. This was reported by the TDH news agency. The Hero Arkadag was received by officials at the capital’s international airport. At Mehrabad International Airport in Tehran, the Turkmen delegation was met by the First Vice-President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Mohammad Reza Aref, and other officials. An honour guard was lined up. As part of the visit, the Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan held negotiations with the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Masoud Pezeshkian, at the ‘Sarvestan’ Palace within the ‘Saadabad’ complex. The parties discussed the development of bilateral relations. The President of Iran noted his interest in expanding multi-faceted cooperation with Turkmenistan and expressed his confidence that the visit would give new impetus to cooperation. Hero Arkadag conveyed greetings and best wishes from the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov. The parties reaffirmed their commitment to developing cooperation based on the principles of good neighbourliness and mutual respect. It was noted that relations between the two countries are long-term and stable. Particular attention was paid to trade and economic cooperation. The role of the joint Inter-governmental Commission, business forums and exhibitions was emphasised. They discussed the development of cooperation in the energy, transport and agricultural sectors. Among the key projects highlighted was the ‘Kazakhstan–Turkmenistan–Iran’ railway line, which forms part of the ‘North–South’ international corridor. In addition, a meeting took place with the Chairman of the Islamic Consultative Assembly, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf. The parties discussed inter-parliamentary cooperation, the work of friendship groups and the exchange of experience between parliamentarians. The importance of preserving cultural heritage and developing humanitarian ties between the peoples of the two countries was emphasised. Hero Arkadag also gave an interview to the Iranian television channel IRIB, in which he noted the steady development of Turkmen-Iranian relations in the political, economic and humanitarian spheres. As part of the visit, the Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan visited the Imam Khomeini Mosalla Mosque in Tehran, where a memorial service was held. A farewell ceremony was held there for the late Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei. The event was attended by officials from the Islamic Republic of Iran. The Honour Guard Company played the official anthem, and verses from the Holy Quran were recited. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov offered prayers for the repose of the souls of the departed and expressed his condolences to the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Masoud Pezeshkian, as well as to the Iranian side on behalf of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, the Turkmen people and himself personally. Hero Arkadag also signed the book of condolences. At the conclusion of the visit, the National Leader of the Turkmen people proceeded to Tehran’s Mehrabad International Airport, from where he flew back to Turkmenistan. Hero Arkadag was met by officials at the capital’s international airport. The visit reaffirmed the high level of Turkmen-Iranian dialogue and is aimed at further strengthening bilateral cooperation.
The President of Turkmenistan congratulated the US on the 250th anniversary of its independence
04.07.2026President Serdar Berdimuhamedov has sent a message of congratulations to the President of the United States of America, Donald Trump, to mark the 250th anniversary of US independence. The congratulations were also extended to the American people on behalf of the people and Government of Turkmenistan, as well as personally from the Head of State. This was reported by the online news site AsmanNews. In his message, the President of Turkmenistan highlighted the importance of cooperation between the two countries, based on the principles of mutual respect and trust, and reaffirmed his readiness to further develop constructive dialogue and a mutually beneficial partnership. Serdar Berdimuhamedov wished Donald Trump good health, happiness and well-being, and the people of the United States peace, progress and prosperity.
Turkmenistan has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening cooperation with the US
04.07.2026Turkmenistan intends to continue strengthening its cooperation with the US on issues relating to the global, regional and bilateral agendas. This was stated by Turkmenistan’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Rashid Meredov, at a reception marking the 250th anniversary of US independence, according to the news website Turkmenportal. According to the Head of the Foreign Affairs Ministry, Washington has consistently supported Turkmenistan’s permanent neutrality, sovereignty and territorial integrity. R. Meredov noted the steady development of bilateral relations over 34 years of diplomatic cooperation, emphasising the effectiveness of political consultations between the Foreign Affairs Ministries of the two countries. The minister also highlighted cooperation within the framework of the UN and the ‘C5+1’ format, as well as successful collaboration with US companies such as John Deere, Caterpillar, Boeing, General Electric, Visa and others. Furthermore, he highlighted the development of partnerships in the fields of education, science, culture and the preservation of cultural heritage, thanking US Ambassador Elizabeth Rood for her contribution to strengthening bilateral relations.
The US Ambassador spoke highly of the development of bilateral relations with Turkmenistan
04.07.2026The US highly values its partnership with Turkmenistan, and bilateral relations continue to strengthen. This was stated by the US Ambassador to Turkmenistan, Elizabeth Rood, at a reception held at the ‘Ýyldyz’ Hotel in Ashgabat to mark the 250th anniversary of US independence, according to the news website Turkmenportal. According to the diplomat, cooperation between the two countries has intensified significantly over the past year. Elizabeth Rood highlighted the visit by the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, to Washington; the trip to Florida by the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov; and visits to Turkmenistan by representatives of the US administration. The US Ambassador emphasised that the two sides are continuing to develop cooperation in trade, the economy, education and culture, as well as collaboration in the field of regional and international security.
Turkmenistan and the International Labour Organisation discussed cooperation
03.07.2026On 2 July, a meeting took place at the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan between Rashid Meredov, Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan, and Corinne Vargha, Director of the Department of International Labour Standards at the International Labour Organisation (ILO). This was reported by the press office of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the current state of affairs and prospects for cooperation between Turkmenistan and the ILO. They noted the importance of implementing the Roadmap for Cooperation between Turkmenistan and the ILO for 2026, as well as cooperation in the areas of improving labour legislation, developing social partnership and implementing international labour standards. It was emphasised that matters relating to cooperation with the ILO form part of the agenda of the Interdepartmental Commission for Ensuring the Fulfilment of Turkmenistan’s International Obligations in the Field of Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law. Turkmenistan’s commitment to the obligations arising from its membership of the ILO was reaffirmed. The meeting participants also discussed expanding project-based cooperation with specialised UN agencies, including the ILO, and considered the possibility of opening an ILO office in Turkmenistan. Particular attention was paid to cooperation between the National Centre of Trade Unions of Turkmenistan and the ILO Bureau for Workers’ Activities (ACTRAV), aimed at developing social dialogue and promoting international labour standards. Following the meeting, the parties reaffirmed their commitment to further developing their partnership in areas of mutual interest.
The Kenyan Ambassador presented his credentials to the Mejlis of Turkmenistan
02.07.2026On 1 July, the Chairwoman of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan, D. Gulmanova, received the credentials from Jonah Maina Mwangi, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Kenya to Turkmenistan. This was reported by the news agency TDH. During the ceremony, the Speaker of the National Parliament congratulated the diplomat on his appointment and wished him every success in strengthening inter-state cooperation. The Ambassador conveyed greetings and best wishes to President Serdar Berdimuhamedov from the leadership of the Republic of Kenya and expressed his gratitude for the warm reception. The parties discussed the development of bilateral relations and cooperation within multilateral frameworks, including within the United Nations and other international organisations. The Turkmen side provided information on the country’s foreign policy and the activities of the Mejlis aimed at improving the legislative framework. Turkmenistan’s interest in expanding cooperation with countries on the African continent was noted. Following the meeting, the parties reaffirmed their readiness to further strengthen their partnership. Kenyan Ambassador Jonah Maina Mwangi stated that it was an honour for him to represent his country in Turkmenistan and expressed his intention to promote the development of bilateral relations.
A meeting with the Kenyan Ambassador took place at the MFA of Turkmenistan
02.07.2026On 1 July 2026, a meeting took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan between Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Myahri Byashimova and Jonah Maina Mwangi, Ambassador of the Republic of Kenya to Turkmenistan (resident in Tehran). During the meeting, the Kenyan Ambassador presented copies of his credentials, according to the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The Turkmen side congratulated the diplomat on his appointment and wished him every success in his future work. The parties discussed prospects for the development of bilateral cooperation. They noted the potential for intensifying political dialogue, expanding trade and economic ties, and improving the legal and treaty framework. Cooperation within international organisations, primarily within the framework of the UN, was discussed, as well as the continuation of mutual support for initiatives. The Kenyan side was invited to join the Group of Friends of Neutrality for Peace, Security and Sustainable Development, established on the initiative of Turkmenistan. Particular attention was paid to cooperation in the fields of energy, agriculture, transport and the textile industry. Opportunities for expanding contacts in the cultural and humanitarian spheres, including education, science, culture and sport, were also discussed. Following the meeting, the parties reaffirmed their interest in further strengthening bilateral relations between Turkmenistan and the Republic of Kenya.
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