Policy
Turkmenistan at the ‘C5+1 Forum’: Focus on Energy, Digitalisation and Logistics
08.11.2025The John F. Kennedy Memorial Centre for the Performing Arts in Washington hosted a conference dedicated to the tenth anniversary of the ‘Central Asia+US’ format. The forum confirmed the desire of the countries in the region and the US to strengthen cooperation in key areas such as trade, investment, technology and energy, according to the news website Asmannews. The event included an exhibition showcasing the cultural heritage and economic potential of the Central Asian states. The Turkmenistan exhibition demonstrated the country's achievements and cultural values. A concert featuring artists from the region highlighted the importance of cultural ties. During the plenary session, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan Rashid Meredov noted that the ‘C5+1’ format had moved on to the practical implementation of joint projects. The Deputy Prime Minister emphasised the importance of partnership in attracting financial and technological resources and developing energy, transport and digital infrastructure. The panel sessions discussed issues related to expanding trade, developing public-private partnerships, introducing artificial intelligence, digitalisation and forming new logistics routes between Central Asia and the United States. Following the forum, the parties confirmed their readiness to strengthen economic cooperation and implement joint long-term projects.
Turkmenistan and the UN discussed measures to counter modern threats
08.11.2025On 7 November, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan Myahri Byashimova held a meeting with Oliver Stolpe, Regional Representative of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) for Central Asia, Afghanistan, Iran and Pakistan. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed cooperation in countering modern threats, including the implementation of the UNODC Programme for Central Asia (2022-2027) and the Roadmap for Cooperation with Turkmenistan (2022-2025), as well as the preparation of a new roadmap. Particular attention was paid to the draft Agreement on the financing of joint programmes to strengthen national capacity to combat transnational threats. The Turkmen side confirmed its readiness to continue cooperation on cybersecurity, combating synthetic drugs and human trafficking.
Turkmenistan and the EU discussed partnership at the 24th meeting of the Joint Committee
08.11.2025On 7 November, the 24th meeting of the Turkmenistan-EU Joint Committee was held in Ashgabat. The Turkmen delegation was led by Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy Babaniyaz Yalakov, and the European delegation by Audrone Perkauskiene, Deputy Managing Director for Eastern Europe and Central Asia at the European External Action Service. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The meeting was attended by representatives of relevant Turkmen ministries and agencies, as well as officials from EU departments responsible for trade, transport, energy, the ‘green’ economy, education and humanitarian projects. The participants discussed the macroeconomic situation, trade development, Turkmenistan's accession to the WTO, modernisation of transport infrastructure, digitalisation, energy cooperation, environmental protection and humanitarian initiatives. Separate consideration was given to issues of regional cooperation in the ‘Central Asia-EU’ format. Particular attention was paid to transport connectivity and the introduction of e-CMR electronic consignment notes as part of the ‘EU Global Gateway’ initiative, the development of digital solutions and logistics corridors. In the energy sector, the diversification of supply routes, renewable energy, energy-efficient technologies and environmental projects were discussed. In the humanitarian sphere, education, academic exchanges and the annual Human Rights Dialogue were touched upon. Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their readiness to continue joint projects, including the development of a bilateral ‘Turkmenistan-EU’ Roadmap and the holding of sectoral forums.
Turkmenistan and Iran strengthen bilateral cooperation
08.11.2025On 7 November, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan Ahmet Gurbanov met with Deputy Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran for Economic Affairs Hamid Ghanbari. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. During the meeting, issues of political-diplomatic, trade-economic and cultural-humanitarian cooperation were discussed. The parties emphasised the importance of high-level meetings for the development of bilateral relations. Particular attention was paid to trade and economic partnership and the work of the Turkmen-Iranian Inter-governmental Commission on Economic Cooperation. The prospects for cooperation in the energy and transport-transit sectors were also discussed. In conclusion, both sides confirmed their intention to continue strengthening Turkmen-Iranian ties on the basis of friendship, good neighbourliness and mutual respect.
The first ship built in Turkmenistan was launched
08.11.2025Turkmenistan has built and launched its first national dry cargo ship. The ‘Gadamly’, capable of carrying up to 6,100 tonnes of containers, was officially unveiled on 4 November, according to the online news resource TerraNews. The ceremony was a significant event for shipbuilding students and their mentors from the relevant university. The ship was built at the Balkan shipyard in collaboration with Turkmen specialists and their colleagues from the South Korean company ‘Koryo Shipbuilding Industry Technology Co., Ltd.’
Turkmenistan and Iran intend to establish a trade zone on the border
07.11.2025The second meeting on the creation of a joint trade zone between Turkmenistan and Iran within the framework of the Economic Cooperation Organisation (ECO) was held in the Iranian province of Golestan, according to the online news resource TerraNews. The event was attended by representatives of the ECO and heads of trade and customs agencies of both countries. Discussions focused on the creation of a trade market at the ‘Altyn Asyr – Bajgiran’ border crossing, simplification of visa and customs procedures, the functioning of the insurance system and attracting investment. The Turkmen delegation noted the importance of using border trade opportunities to increase trade turnover. The ECO representatives stated that the project would serve as a model for other countries and expressed their readiness to develop an agreement and a plan for the creation of a zone at the ‘Altyn Asyr – Incheburun’ crossing point. At the end of the meeting, the delegation inspected the site for the construction of the zone and proposed to hold the next meeting in Turkmenistan.
Turkmenistan took part in the 14th session of the IACA Assembly in Vienna
07.11.2025A Turkmen delegation took part in the 14th session of the Assembly of the International Anti-Corruption Academy (IACA) at the UN headquarters in Vienna, according to the news website Asmannews. The session was attended by representatives of states and international organisations, who discussed measures to combat corruption and strengthen integrity systems. Participants exchanged experiences, discussed current issues and identified priorities for the Academy's future work. In its statement, the Turkmen delegation emphasised the importance of cooperation with the IACA and the country's active participation in the UN Convention against Corruption. The Assembly also discussed the Academy's development strategy and future initiatives to strengthen global efforts against corruption, and Turkmenistan's participation confirms the country's commitment to transparency and international cooperation.
Turkmenistan and Pakistan discussed cooperation in technical training
07.11.2025On 5 November, Atajan Movlamov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, held a meeting with Gulmina Bilal Ahmad, Chairperson of the National Commission for Vocational and Technical Training of Pakistan, according to the online news resource TerraNews. The parties discussed the commission's activities, its role in training, employment and support for specialists, as well as prospects for cooperation: exchange of experience, joint programmes for professional development and the development of vocational education in the region. Following the meeting, it was decided to continue the dialogue and explore opportunities for joint projects and programmes.
Turkmenistan and the EU discuss strengthening cooperation
07.11.2025On 6 November, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan Myahri Byashimova met with Deputy Director-General for Europe and Central Asia of the European External Action Service, Audrone Perkauskiene. This was reported by the online news resource TerraNews. The parties discussed Turkmenistan's cooperation with the EU, including the results of the ‘Central Asia-EU’ ministerial meeting held in Ashgabat in March. Particular attention was paid to the role of Turkmenistan's neutrality policy and preparations for the International Forum on 12 December dedicated to the International Year of Peace and Trust and the 30th anniversary of the country's permanent neutrality. Issues related to the meeting of the ‘Turkmenistan-EU’ Joint Committee on Economic Cooperation and the expansion of trade and economic cooperation were also discussed. The parties expressed interest in strengthening cooperation and implementing joint projects in the fields of education, ecology and transport.
Turkmenistan discussed the organisation of events to mark the 30th anniversary of neutrality
07.11.2025On 6 November, under the chairmanship of the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, a regular meeting of the Organising State Committee for the preparation of events to mark the 30th anniversary of the country's permanent neutrality and the International Year of Peace and Trust was held. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. Members of the government and heads of relevant departments took part in the discussion. Issues related to the preparation of festive events in the country and abroad, as well as organisational and economic aspects, were considered. It was noted that Turkmenistan continues to pursue a peaceful foreign policy and is promoting international initiatives, including the UN General Assembly resolution proclaiming 2025 as the International Year of Peace and Trust. In this regard, a major forum is planned for 12 December, as well as a whole range of cultural and business events. Preparations include the creation of programmes of speeches, the organisation of receptions for foreign guests, the formation of volunteer groups from among young teachers and students, as well as the provision of high-quality communications and services. Particular attention is being paid to international information support, the preparation of souvenirs and printed materials, and the opening of trading platforms. The symbol of the International Year of Peace and Trust was presented — an image of a green poplar and a white falcon, symbolising neutrality, Peace and Trust. It was noted that this symbolism should be widely used in the design of celebrations and in educational work among young people. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov emphasised the need for a comprehensive approach, a high level of infrastructure preparation, cultural events and international conferences. In conclusion, the Hero Arkadag visited the venues where the main events will take place and gave additional recommendations on the organisation of guest reception and events.
Turkmenistan has confirmed its readiness to strengthen cooperation with CARICC
07.11.2025On 6 November, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Myahri Byashimova held a negotiation with Director of the Central Asian Regional Information and Coordination Center for Combating Illicit Trafficking in Narcotic Drugs, Psychotropic Substances and Their Precursors (CARICC), Mahmud Hamidov. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. During the meeting, M. Byashimova congratulated M. Hamidov on his appointment and wished him success in his work. She noted the significant role of the centre in uniting the efforts of the states of the region to combat illicit drug trafficking. The parties confirmed Turkmenistan's readiness to continue participating in the development of international and regional cooperation in the field of security, including cooperation within the framework of CARICC projects.
Turkmenistan and Turkey aim to deepen partnership
07.11.2025On 6 November, Mekan Ishangulyev, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to the Republic of Turkey, held a meeting with Kürşad Zorlu, Deputy Chairman of the Justice and Development Party (AK Parti) of the Republic of Turkey. This was reported by the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of cooperation in the political, economic and cultural spheres. Separately, they considered preparations for the high-level international forum, which will be held on 12 December in Ashgabat in honour of the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's permanent neutrality and the proclamation of 2025 as the International Year of Peace and Trust. The possible participation of a high-level delegation from Turkey was discussed. The meeting confirmed the desire to further strengthen partnership contacts and implement joint initiatives.
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