Policy
Turkmenistan and Zimbabwe held political consultations in Ashgabat
24.02.2026On 23 February, political consultations between the foreign ministries of Turkmenistan and the Republic of Zimbabwe took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The delegations were led by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Serdar Muhammetdurdyev and Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs and International Trade of the Republic of Zimbabwe Albert Ranganai Chimbindi. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of bilateral relations. Particular attention was paid to intensifying political and diplomatic dialogue. Interest in developing contacts at the highest and high levels, regular inter-ministerial consultations and strengthening inter-parliamentary ties was confirmed. They exchanged views on topical issues on the regional and international agenda. They confirmed their readiness for further cooperation within international structures, including the United Nations, and for mutual support for initiatives in multilateral forums. Opportunities for expanding trade and economic partnership were considered. The potential for cooperation in energy, agriculture, textiles and other industries was noted. The advisability of intensifying contacts between business circles, holding joint business forums and participating in exhibitions and fairs was emphasised. In the cultural and humanitarian sphere, the parties expressed interest in developing cooperation in the fields of education, sports and tourism, as well as in expanding direct contacts between relevant institutions. Following the meeting, a Protocol on Political Consultations between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade of the Republic of Zimbabwe was signed.
Turkmenistan has set its priorities for human rights work for 2026
24.02.2026On 23 February, under the chairmanship of Rashid Meredov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, a regular meeting of the Interdepartmental Commission on Ensuring the Implementation of Turkmenistan’s International Obligations in the Field of Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law was held. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The meeting was attended by heads and representatives of relevant ministries and departments, the Ombudsman of Turkmenistan, representatives of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan, the Institute of State, Law and Democracy of Turkmenistan, the National Red Crescent Society of Turkmenistan and public organisations. The participants summarised the Commission's work for 2025 and set priorities for 2026. They noted the strengthening of Turkmenistan's cooperation with the United Nations and its structures, the development of dialogue with the European Union, the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe, the International Labour Organisation and the International Committee of the Red Cross. The implementation of the Roadmap for cooperation with the International Labour Organisation was considered separately. It was decided to extend its validity until the end of 2026. The completion of the National Action Plan on Human Rights and the National Action Plan on Gender Equality for 2021-2025 was also reported. Drafts of new plans for 2026–2030 have been prepared, taking into account the recommendations of UN treaty bodies, the fourth cycle of the Universal Periodic Review and the Sustainable Development Goals. During the meeting, issues related to improving the work of the Commission, enhancing the quality of national reports and further developing cooperation with international partners were discussed.
Turkmenistan outlined its foreign policy priorities at an international conference
23.02.2026The Institute of International Relations of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan hosted an international conference dedicated to the professional holiday of diplomats. The forum brought together representatives of foreign ministries and experts to discuss the key vectors of the country's diplomacy. This was reported by the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. One of the central speeches was delivered by Rashid Meredov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan. He outlined the priorities of modern Turkmen diplomacy and emphasised the importance of permanent neutrality as the basis for foreign policy. The Head of the Foreign Affairs Ministry stressed that in the context of global change, Turkmenistan is forming its positions based on the historical experience, culture and ethical norms of its people. He highlighted new challenges and opportunities, including issues of global governance and international alliances, and noted that the country's foreign policy takes these realities into account. The forum paid particular attention to respect for the national characteristics of states, non-interference in internal affairs and the prevention of the imposition of external development models. In this context, R. Meredov emphasised the role of the United Nations, expressing support for the initiatives of the UN Secretary-General – the ‘Pact for the Future’ and ‘UN-80’. ‘The UN must remain the basis for equal dialogue between peoples and states,’ the Minister said. He also noted the importance of international law as a key condition for global security and announced that Turkmenistan had proposed declaring 2028 the Year of International Law. The conference confirmed that Turkmenistan's foreign policy combines loyalty to traditions and a readiness for renewal. The country's principled position, aimed at humanising international relations, remains an important factor for stability in the world.
Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov held a meeting on Ahal-Teke horses in Germany
23.02.2026The National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, stopped in Germany on his way from the United States to Turkmenistan and held a working meeting on the participation of Ahal-Teke horses in international competitions, according to TDH. The event was held in accordance with a Resolution signed by President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov on 13 February 2026 at an expanded meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers, in connection with the declaration of the current year as the Year of ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’. Participants discussed the organisation of competitions in Turkmenistan and abroad. Turkmenistan's Ambassador to Germany, B. Rejepov, reported on the state of Turkmen-German relations and the promotion of the Ahal-Teke breed in Europe. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov stressed the need for Turkmen horses to perform well at the FEI World Equestrian Championships 2026 in Aachen (11–23 August), the beauty contest in the Netherlands in September, and events in France and the United Kingdom. The National Leader of the Turkmen people noted that the high level of competition will strengthen the international authority of Turkmenistan, which will celebrate its 35th anniversary of independence in 2026, and increase the popularity of the Ahal-Teke breed. Following the meeting, specific instructions were given to the participants. After the negotiations, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov flew to Ashgabat. The airliner of the Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty landed at the capital's International Airport.
The TAPI project remains a priority in Turkmenistan's energy strategy
23.02.2026During his visit to the United States, the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, gave an interview to ‘Al Arabiya’ TV presenter Rizwan Khan. The main topic of the conversation was Turkmenistan's energy strategy and the promotion of major cross-border projects. It was reported by the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. As noted by the Hero Arkadag, Turkmenistan ranks fourth in the world in terms of proven natural gas reserves, which, according to him, imposes a special responsibility on the country in the current geo-economic conditions. He stressed that the priority is to diversify energy flows, ensure their balance, security and reliability of supply. Cooperation in the energy sector, according to him, is being built at the political and international legal levels, taking into account the requirements of global development and the principle of mutual benefit. The interview paid special attention to the construction of the ‘Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India’ (TAPI) gas pipeline. According to the National Leader of the Turkmen people, the project remains one of the country's largest international energy initiatives. It is reported that the construction of the first stage of TAPI, ‘Arkadagyň ak ýoly’, is continuing in Afghanistan. The project enjoys international support, including from the United States, and is seen as an important factor in meeting the growing demand for energy in South Asian countries, as well as expanding access to markets in the Asia-Pacific region, the Near and Middle East. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov also noted TAPI's potential in strengthening political stability and economic development. He emphasised that the project is open to interested companies, expressing hope for active interest from American partners.
The President of Turkmenistan congratulated the Sultan of Brunei on Independence Day
23.02.2026President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov sent congratulations to Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei Darussalam on the occasion of the country's Independence Day. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. The Head of State wished the Sultan good health, happiness and prosperity, and the people of Brunei Darussalam peace, progress and prosperity.
Turkmenistan and the OSCE discussed regional cooperation at the parliamentary level
22.02.2026The Permanent Representative of Turkmenistan to the OSCE, Hemra Amannazarov, met with the Special Representative of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly for Central Asia, Angelos Syrigos, at the OSCE PA Winter Meeting in Vienna. This was reported by the press service of the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Austria. The parties discussed priority areas of cooperation, focusing on parliamentary dialogue, confidence-building and the development of regional ties in Central Asia. H. Amannazarov emphasised Turkmenistan's support for constructive interaction and the importance of a consensus-based approach. During the discussion, practical steps for cooperation were considered: exchange of views on regional issues, development of contacts between parliamentarians of Central Asian countries and the role of parliamentary diplomacy in ensuring stability and sustainable development. Particular attention was paid to Turkmenistan's initiative to hold regional parliamentary meetings in Ashgabat. The Ambassador expressed his gratitude for the OSCE PA's support in organising the third conference, noting its importance for dialogue and the exchange of experience. The meeting reaffirmed the commitment to deepening cooperation, strengthening regional parliamentary networks and seeking solutions through dialogue.
Projects involving the United States in Turkmenistan are approaching $45 billion
22.02.2026The volume of joint economic projects between Turkmenistan and the United States is approaching $45 billion. This was announced by the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov in an interview with ‘Al Arabiya’ TV channel, according to the state news agency TDH. Hero Arkadag noted that hundreds of projects have already been implemented or are in the process of being implemented, and cooperation is based on mutual benefit and equality. Major American companies such as ‘John Deere’, ‘General Electric’, ‘Case’, ‘Boeing’, ‘Coca-Cola’, ‘Sikorsky’ and ‘Caterpillar’ are actively working in the Turkmen market in the fields of energy, transport, agriculture, electric power, software and the food industry. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov emphasised the importance of the Turkmen-American Business Council, established in 2008, which has become an effective instrument of bilateral partnership and whose recommendations are taken into account by government agencies in both countries. The Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty also outlined plans to expand cooperation, including through economic diversification, the introduction of high-tech industries and the implementation of major infrastructure projects, as well as attracting American investment and technology to develop Turkmenistan's innovative and knowledge-intensive economy.
Turkmenistan's Permanent Representative officially commenced work at the OIC
22.02.2026On 16 February, an official ceremony for the presentation of credentials took place at the headquarters of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation in Jeddah. The Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Saudi Arabia, Muhammetgeldi Ayazov, officially took office as the country's Permanent Representative to this international organisation, according to the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. OIC Secretary General Hissein Brahim Taha, accepting the credentials, emphasised the special role of Turkmenistan in the Islamic world. According to him, the country's policy of permanent neutrality serves as an effective tool for strengthening peace and trust both in the region and within the Organisation. As noted by the Permanent Representative, Turkmenistan intends to expand its contribution to the activities of the OIC, primarily in the areas of culture, education and economic mutual assistance. The Organisation highly appreciated Turkmenistan's experience in the field of preventive diplomacy, which is particularly relevant in the current international situation. The Secretary General expressed his confidence that the Permanent Representative's activities would give additional impetus to the development of dialogue between Turkmenistan and the OIC, which has remained a reliable and active member of the Islamic community for many years.
The MFA of Turkmenistan hosted a meeting of the UNESCO Commission
22.02.2026On 21 February, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan hosted a regular meeting of the National Commission of Turkmenistan for UNESCO. It was chaired by Rashid Meredov, Vice-Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, according to the press service of the country's Foreign Affairs Ministry. The meeting was attended by relevant Deputy Chairmen of the Cabinet of Ministers, heads of ministries and departments, the Executive Secretary of the National Commission, as well as representatives of scientific institutions and public associations. The participants summarised the commission's work for 2025, heard reports on culture and science, and discussed the work plan for 2026. Special attention was paid to the further development of Turkmenistan's cooperation with UNESCO. It was noted that cooperation with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation remains one of the priorities of the country's foreign policy. In 2025, the commission's activities were carried out systematically within the framework of the approved plan. In the field of heritage preservation, it was reported that the ‘art of breeding Turkmen alabay’ had been included in the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The preparation of multilateral nominations and work under the ‘Memory of the World’ programme continued. In the field of science and education, the city of Ashgabat was included in the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities, a ‘Digital Science’ department was established at the Technology Centre of the Academy of Sciences of Turkmenistan as part of the UNITWIN programme, and a UNESCO club was opened at the International University for the Humanities and Development. In the field of ecology and climate change, regional initiatives continued to be implemented, international consultations were held in Ashgabat, and opportunities for including Turkmenistan's natural sites in UNESCO programmes were explored. The issue of expanding the country's participation in UNESCO's governing bodies was also considered, including the nomination of Turkmenistan to the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage for 2026-2030. The participants confirmed their intention to further strengthen cooperation with UNESCO in the fields of education, science, culture and sustainable development.
Hero Arkadag gave an interview to ‘Al Arabiya’ TV channel during his visit to the United States
22.02.2026During his visit to the United States, the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov gave an interview to ‘Al Arabiya’ TV presenter Rizwan Khan. During the conversation, the Hero Arkadag outlined the key objectives of the visit, assessed the current state of Turkmen-American relations and discussed in detail the priorities of the country's domestic and foreign policy, reports AsmanNews. Responding to a question about the objectives of the visit, the Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty noted the sustained positive dynamics of traditionally friendly cooperation between Turkmenistan and the United States. According to him, bilateral ties cover a wide range of areas, from politics and economics to science, education, culture and sports. The Turkmen side, he stressed, attaches great importance to further strengthening constructive dialogue and expanding practical cooperation. It was particularly noted that the United States was one of the first countries to recognise Turkmenistan's independence and establish diplomatic relations, consistently showing respect for the country's permanent neutrality status. Today, the United States remains an important trade and economic partner of Turkmenistan, and mutual trade turnover is showing steady growth. Considerable attention was paid in the interview to Turkmenistan's energy strategy. Hero Arkadag emphasised that the country has some of the world's largest natural gas reserves and is building its policy in this area on the basis of diversification of export routes, reliability of supplies and balance of interests of all market participants. In this context, the role of Turkmenistan's initiatives within the United Nations to promote global dialogue on energy security was noted. Separately, the Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty focused on the implementation of the ‘Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India’ (TAPI) gas pipeline project, emphasising its economic and stabilising significance for the South Asian region and the openness of the project to international partners, including American companies. Speaking about the prospects for the Trans-Caspian gas pipeline, the Hero Arkadag noted Turkmenistan's constructive approach to this issue, given the need to resolve international legal issues, including the delimitation of the Caspian Sea seabed. A separate part of the conversation was devoted to trade and economic cooperation with the United States. According to the National Leader of the Turkmen people, with the participation of American businesses, hundreds of projects with a total value of about $45 billion have been and are being implemented in Turkmenistan. Among the key partners are ‘John Deere’, ‘General Electric’, ‘CASE’, ‘Boeing’, ‘Coca-Cola’, ‘Sikorsky’ and ‘Caterpillar’. Particular emphasis was placed on the role of the Turkmen-American Business Council, which over the years has established itself as an effective platform for developing contacts between business structures in the two countries and promoting joint initiatives. Among the promising areas of cooperation are the introduction of high technologies, the development of electric power, logistics, digital services, education and training. The interview also focused on humanitarian cooperation. Hero Arkadag noted the sustained interest in Turkmenistan in learning English, which is taught in all general education schools in the country, as well as the development of English-language higher education. Plans to open a specialised English-language school in the city of Arkadag were announced. In the cultural sphere, the importance of cooperation with the Metropolitan Museum in New York was emphasised, as well as the implementation of educational and cultural programmes with the support of the US State Department, including projects of the Ambassador's Fund for Cultural Preservation. Responding to a question about Turkmenistan's geostrategic position, the Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty noted that the country sees itself as a bridge between Europe and Asia. According to him, the status of permanent neutrality serves as the foundation for a foreign policy focused on strengthening peace, trust and regional stability. Speaking about the programme of his stay in Florida, the Hero Arkadag expressed his intention to intensify direct contacts between the region and Turkmenistan, primarily in the areas of investment, trade, sports and tourism. Particular interest was shown in the American experience in developing golf infrastructure and horse breeding. At the end of the interview, the National Leader of the Turkmen people confirmed that Turkmenistan considers the United States of America a reliable partner and is committed to further expanding mutually beneficial cooperation. Following the conversation, Rizwan Khan noted the substantive and constructive nature of the interview and thanked the Hero Arkadag for his detailed answers. The Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty, in turn, invited the presenter and the team of ‘Al Arabiya’ TV channel to take part in the celebrations of the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan's independence and events dedicated to Ahal-Teke horses.
Hero Arkadag held a series of business meetings in the United States of America
22.02.2026The National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov paid a working visit to the United States of America. The programme included talks with business circles, visits to relevant facilities and discussions of new joint projects, reports TDH. During the visit, a meeting was held with John Reese, President of ‘Nicklaus Companies’, and members of its management. The current state and prospects of bilateral cooperation were discussed. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov noted Turkmenistan's priority focus on the development of high-performance sports, tourism and modern sports infrastructure. In this regard, plans to build golf courses in the city of Arkadag and the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone were considered. John Reese confirmed the company's interest in preparing and implementing relevant projects. It was reported that a golf complex with two courses, including a competition and training ground, is planned to be built on the Caspian Sea coast. Separate negotiations were held with Eric Stewart, Executive Director of the Turkmenistan-US Business Council. The parties noted the steady dynamics of Turkmen-American relations and the interest of US businesses in expanding cooperation. Among the priorities are the development of investment dialogue and regular contacts between business circles. The contribution of American companies — ‘Boeing’, ‘General Electric’, ‘John Deere’, ‘CASE’ and ‘Nicklaus Companies’ – in the implementation of projects in Turkmenistan was emphasized. As part of the programme, the National Leader of the Turkmen people visited the ‘Panther’ Golf Club, where he familiarised himself with the features of the construction and operation of the courses. He also visited the ‘Sandhill Crane Golf Club’ training centre, which has been operating since 1992. Here, he was shown the digital solutions used in the training process, as well as an exhibition of textile products, including sports uniforms marked ‘Made in Turkmenistan’. The Turkmen side expressed interest in exchanging experience and holding joint tournaments. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov visited the ‘La Victoria’ equestrian complex. He familiarised himself with the conditions for keeping and training horses, the infrastructure of the complex and the possibilities for holding international show jumping competitions. The prospects for expanding cooperation between Turkmen and American specialists in the field of horse breeding and equestrian sports were noted. During the visit, meetings were held with entrepreneurs Steve Wynn, Isaac Perlmutter and William Koch, Chairman of the Board of Directors of ‘Oxbow Group’. The prospects for further development of bilateral business partnership were discussed. Negotiations were also held with Csaba Lejko, CEO and President of ‘John Deere Walldorf International GmbH’ for the CIS and Central Asia. The strategic role of agriculture in the economy of Turkmenistan and the long-term nature of cooperation with ‘John Deere’, whose equipment has been used in the country for over 30 years, were emphasised. Special attention was paid to the training of specialised personnel and the modernisation of the agro-industrial complex. After completing the programme in the United States, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov travelled to the Federal Republic of Germany, where he held a working meeting with relevant leaders. They discussed preparations for events in 2026, which has been declared the Year of ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’. Particular attention was paid to the participation of Ahal-Teke horses in the FEI World Championship 2026 in Aachen, as well as in relevant events in the Netherlands, France and the United Kingdom. The Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Germany, B. Rejepov, reported on the state of Turkmen-German relations and the work to promote the Ahal-Teke breed. After completing his trip abroad, the National Leader of the Turkmen people returned to Ashgabat. The visit to the United States was conducted in a working format and was aimed at expanding investment, sports and agricultural cooperation between Turkmenistan and the United States of America.
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