Policy
Ashgabat and Brussels strengthen technological and humanitarian dialogue
20.02.2026Turkmenistan's Ambassador to Belgium, Sapar Palvanov, held a series of meetings in Brussels with senior representatives of the European Commission on the prospects for long-term partnership. This was reported by IIC. During the negotiations with Director-General for Research and Innovation Marc Lemaitre, it was noted that the European Union is one of Turkmenistan's three key strategic partners for 2025-2026. The parties identified the introduction of high technologies, the development of artificial intelligence and the coordination of efforts on the climate agenda as priority areas for cooperation. The dialogue focused in particular on environmental issues in Central Asia. The meeting participants discussed the need for a scientifically based analysis of changes in the water balance and the shallowing of the Caspian Sea using modern monitoring systems. In this regard, the Turkmen side presented an initiative to create a Regional Centre for Innovation and Technology, which is intended to become a key platform for climate research in the region. Representatives of the European Commission expressed interest in developing joint technological solutions in the interests of sustainable development. The humanitarian aspect of cooperation was discussed at a meeting with Normunds Popens, Deputy Director-General for Education, Youth, Sport and Culture. The parties outlined practical steps to deepen cooperation in the field of education and implement joint youth programmes. The expansion of cultural exchange and sports cooperation is seen as an important element in further rapprochement between Turkmenistan and the European Union, complementing technological and economic partnership.
The President of Turkmenistan congratulated the Prime Minister of Japan
20.02.2026The President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov sent a congratulatory message to Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on her re-election to high office, according to the state news agency TDH. In his message, the Head of State noted that he warmly remembers the meeting that took place in Tokyo as part of the first ‘Central Asia – Japan’ Dialogue Summit. He emphasised the readiness of the Turkmen side to effectively use the broad potential of bilateral cooperation based on trusting and constructive dialogue. Taking advantage of the opportunity, the President of Turkmenistan wished the Prime Minister good health, prosperity and new successes in his state activities for the prosperity of the friendly people of Japan.
Turkmenistan outlined its priorities for transport digitalisation at the UNECE session
20.02.2026A delegation from Turkmenistan, led by Deputy Prime Minister Batyr Annayev, is participating in the 88th session of the UNECE Inland Transport Committee, which is being held in Geneva. This was reported by the IIC. The session is being held under the theme of developing innovations in the future of inland transport and is dedicated to issues of digitalisation, automation, infrastructure modernisation and the sustainability of international transport systems. As part of the high-level segment, ministerial discussions were held on the implementation of intelligent transport solutions and the strengthening of international transport connectivity. The Head of the Turkmen delegation noted that the digital transformation of transport is a strategic priority for the country, emphasising the development of electronic document management, intergovernmental data exchange and the formation of the ‘North-South’ and ‘West-East’ digital corridors. Cooperation with the UNECE in the field of multimodal transport and automated data exchange was also highlighted. The session is attended by representatives of transport agencies, international organisations, business and the expert community. The forum will continue until 20 February 2026.
The US Ambassador described Turkmen diplomats as exemplary professionals
19.02.2026The Ambassador of the United States of America to Turkmenistan, Elizabeth Rood, congratulated Turkmen diplomats on their professional holiday, noting their contribution to strengthening peace and developing friendly relations with other countries. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The Diplomat emphasised that the skills and abilities of diplomatic workers help build bridges and overcome borders. E. Rood also highly appreciated the cooperation between Turkmenistan and the United States, emphasising the joint work of diplomats on economic projects and regional security issues. In conclusion, the Ambassador thanked her Turkmen colleagues and the staff of the American Embassy in Ashgabat for their daily contribution to the development of international relations.
Turkmenistan reaffirms its role as a strategic partner of the WHO
19.02.2026The international seminar ‘High-Level Dialogue on Global Health Diplomacy’ kicked off at the ‘Ýyldyz’ Hotel in the capital. The forum confirmed Turkmenistan's commitment to the principles of positive neutrality and humanism and created a platform for coordinating the efforts of the international community, according to the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age.’ The participants paid particular attention to the speech by Oxana Domenti, Director of the World Health Organisation (WHO) AHEAD programme at the European Union. According to her, Turkmenistan is now an active participant in global processes and is consistently promoting the objectives of medical diplomacy at both regional and international levels. The expert noted the country's key achievements: the Ashgabat Declaration aimed at combating non-communicable diseases and initiatives at the UN, including the promotion of International Bicycle Day. She also emphasised the importance of Turkmenistan's chairmanship of the CIS and the country's participation in the development of five key WHO priorities for the European region. Oxana Domenti called the seminar in Ashgabat a contribution to the development of global medicine and expressed confidence that its results would form the basis for new joint projects under the auspices of the WHO.
A meeting on preparations for the Year of International Law was held at the MFA of Turkmenistan
19.02.2026On 18 February, the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan held the first consultative meeting on the implementation of the Action Plan for 2026 for the preparation and conduct of the Year of International Law in 2028. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. During the meeting, general information was presented on the developed Action Plan, which had previously been reviewed at a regular meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan. The document provides for a set of organisational and methodological, scientific and practical, educational, international, and information and communication activities. It was noted that the initiative to proclaim 2028 as the Year of International Law was put forward by the President of Turkmenistan at the 80th session of the UN General Assembly. The Action Plan covers five key areas: organisational preparation, holding international scientific and practical conferences, implementing educational and awareness-raising initiatives, organising international and bilateral events, and supporting youth and scientific projects. Particular attention is paid to strengthening international law as the basis for global peace, trust and sustainable development, as well as unlocking the potential of Turkmenistan's permanent neutrality as an important political and legal instrument for maintaining stability and cooperation. As part of the information support, a special section dedicated to the Year of International Law will be created on the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, and extensive explanatory work will be carried out in the national and foreign media. The meeting confirmed the readiness of the relevant ministries and departments for active interdepartmental cooperation.
Turkmenistan's digital transformation programme comes into action
19.02.2026In the International Year of Peace and Trust, marked by the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's Permanent Neutrality, key documents were adopted for the further development of the country's digital economy. Among them is the ‘Concept for the Development of the Digital Economy in Turkmenistan for 2026-2028.’ This was reported by TDH. The document defines priority areas: the development of digital infrastructure, e-government, digital education and medicine, financial technologies, data transmission networks and international cooperation. The concept takes into account international standards and national interests, as well as modernises the legal framework and stimulates investment. The concept continues the work begun by the ‘Concept for 2019-2025’. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov noted the importance of introducing digital systems into the economy and developing e-government. In January 2026, the Cabinet of Ministers approved the State Programme for the Development of the Digital Economy and the Action Plan for its implementation. The main objectives of the programme are to improve the quality of public services, develop entrepreneurship, introduce information and communication technologies, and create a unified digital ecosystem. The plan includes the development of 4G and 5G networks and digital infrastructure in cities, including the ‘smart city’ of Arkadag, where modern digital services and medical systems are already in operation. The documents provide for the introduction of artificial intelligence, blockchain, cloud technologies and the Internet of Things (IoT), the creation of a national AI strategy, support for start-ups and the training of IT specialists. There are plans to develop e-commerce, digital financial services, automate public services and industry, and introduce digital platforms in agriculture, transport and healthcare. An important part of the programme is ensuring information and cyber security, increasing the digital literacy of the population and training specialists to work with modern technologies. There are also plans for active international cooperation, attracting investment and exchanging experience with foreign partners. The implementation of the Concept and the State Programme is aimed at increasing the efficiency of economic sectors, developing innovative technologies and creating conditions for the sustainable socio-economic development of the country.
Serdar Berdimuhamedov received congratulations on the occasion of Ramadan
19.02.2026President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov received congratulatory messages on the occasion of the holy month of Ramadan. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev sent his congratulations to the Head of Turkmenistan and expressed his wishes for peace, prosperity and further development of bilateral strategic partnership. The message noted the positive dynamics of cooperation between the countries and its importance for the peoples of both states. Congratulations also came from the Chairman of the Presidential Council of Libya, Mohamed Yunus Al-Menfi. He expressed confidence in the further strengthening of Turkmen-Libyan relations and wished Turkmenistan progress and prosperity.
Turkmenistan and Pakistan strengthen diplomatic cooperation in Moscow
18.02.2026On 16 February, a meeting was held at the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Moscow between Esen Aydogdyev, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to the Russian Federation, and Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to the Russian Federation. This was reported by IIC. The diplomats discussed key areas of bilateral and multilateral cooperation, noting that the countries are developing dialogue based on friendship, trust and mutual respect. Particular attention was paid to the interaction of embassies in Moscow, the coordination of foreign policy efforts and joint participation in planned events for the current year. The meeting took place in a constructive and friendly atmosphere, confirming the readiness of both sides to strengthen their partnership.
The Embassy of Turkmenistan held a briefing for Georgian media outlets
18.02.2026On 17 February, the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Georgia held a briefing for Georgian media outlets dedicated to the 2026 motto: ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’. This was reported by the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The event was attended by representatives of leading television channels, print and online publications, as well as analytical centres in Georgia. Dovletmyrat Seyitmammedov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to Georgia, noted that the motto reflects the country's strategic guidelines, national unity and the symbolic role of Ahal-Teke horses as an image of the pursuit of progress. Participants were presented with a book by the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, entitled ‘Neutrality of Turkmenistan – A Bright Way of Peace and Trust,’ which reveals the significance of neutrality and its international recognition by the UN. During the briefing, issues of Turkmen-Georgian cooperation were also touched upon and the positive dynamics of bilateral contacts were noted. Representatives of the Georgian media and expert community emphasised the contribution of Turkmenistan's policy of neutrality to strengthening peace, developing partnerships and friendly ties between peoples.
Turkmenistan and Russia discussed priorities for cooperation within the CIS
18.02.2026A meeting was held in Minsk between Nazarguly Shagulyev, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to the Republic of Belarus, and Alexander Lukashevich, the new Permanent Representative of the Russian Federation to the CIS statutory bodies. This was reported by the Orient news agency. The parties focused on the priorities of Ashgabat's chairmanship of the CIS and preparations for the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan's independence. During the conversation, the symbolism of the 2026 motto and its connection with the country's foreign policy course — neutrality, commitment to traditions and openness to dialogue — was discussed. The diplomats discussed the development of cooperation between Turkmenistan and Russia within the CIS and issues of regional stability. Alexander Lukashevich congratulated the Turkmen side on the upcoming anniversary of independence and confirmed Russia's readiness to support Ashgabat's initiatives within the Commonwealth.
Indonesian Ambassador meets with Chairwoman of the Mejlis
18.02.2026On 17 February, the Chairwoman of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan, D. Gulmanova, accepted the credentials of the new Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Indonesia to Turkmenistan, Rolliansyah Soemirat. This was reported by TDH. On behalf of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, D. Gulmanova congratulated the Diplomat on his appointment and wished him success in strengthening friendly relations and cooperation between the countries. In response, the Ambassador conveyed greetings to the President of Turkmenistan. During the meeting, Rolliansyah Soemirat familiarised himself with the work of the Mejlis and its role in improving national legislation. The priorities of Turkmenistan's peaceful foreign policy and the country's creative initiatives to ensure peace and stability were discussed. The parties exchanged views on the development of Turkmen-Indonesian relations in bilateral and multilateral formats, including within the framework of the UN and other international organisations. The Ambassador assured that he would make efforts to further strengthen cooperation based on trust and mutual respect.
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