Policy
Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov took part in the Vienna International Forum
12.04.2026During his visit to the Republic of Austria, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, took part in the International Vienna Energy and Climate Forum. This was reported by the website AsmanNews. The forum is held under the auspices of UNIDO and the Austrian Government and has served as a platform for discussing climate and energy initiatives since 2008. Unlike major climate summits, it focuses on practical tools – technologies and project financing. The agenda includes the energy transition, the development of ‘green’ hydrogen, the digitalisation of the energy sector, the reduction of methane emissions and the creation of sustainable supply chains. Particular attention is being paid to access to clean energy in landlocked developing countries. Turkmenistan has announced systematic work in the climate sphere. The country is participating in the Global Methane Pledge and is implementing measures to reduce emissions in the oil and gas sector. In parallel, projects are being developed in the renewable energy sector, including the construction of a solar-wind power plant in the Balkan velayat. Work is also underway to combat desertification, expand forest areas and implement digital monitoring of natural resources. Programmes are being implemented to conserve biodiversity and expand protected areas. The event took place at the Hofburg Palace. Forum participants were welcomed by UNIDO Director-General Gerd Müller and Austrian Foreign Affairs Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger. Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen addressed the participants via video link. Hero Arkadag spoke at the forum. He thanked the organisers and noted that energy and climate remain the most vulnerable areas of the global agenda today. The National Leader of the Turkmen people emphasised Turkmenistan’s role as a major producer of energy resources and stated the need for international cooperation based on equality. Among the proposals were the development of an ‘Energy Code’ under the auspices of the UN and the establishment of a universal international mechanism in the energy sector. A separate initiative was presented on the creation of a Global Security Strategy, in which energy security is regarded as a key element. The need to depoliticise energy processes and abandon political restrictions in this sector was emphasised. Turkmenistan also proposed expanding the use of renewable energy sources and developing hydrogen energy. In this regard, the idea of a 10-year global programme for the transition to hydrogen energy was put forward. The country’s readiness to develop regional cooperation and introduce climate technologies was declared. Plans are in place to launch a UN Regional Centre for Climate Change Technologies in Ashgabat. A separate section of the speech was devoted to supporting landlocked developing countries. The need for equal access to water resources and international support for such states was emphasised. The National Leader of the Turkmen people recalled the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries and the significance of the Awaza Declaration adopted there. Turkmenistan declared its intention to seek the implementation of its provisions. In conclusion, it was noted that the country would continue to work with the UN and its agencies, including UNIDO, on the implementation of climate and energy initiatives. Following the conclusion of the visit, the Turkmen delegation departed for Ashgabat. Upon arrival in the capital, Hero Arkadag was met by officials. The visit reaffirmed Turkmenistan’s commitment to developing international cooperation and strengthening the country’s position as a participant in the global energy and climate agenda.
Hero Arkadag gave an interview to representatives of the Turkmen media
12.04.2026During his visit to the Republic of Austria, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, gave an interview to representatives of the Turkmen media. This was reported by TDH. During the conversation, the situation in the Middle East and the possible consequences of an escalation, including the risk of the use of weapons of mass destruction, were discussed. Hero Arkadag noted that Turkmenistan is concerned about developments in the region, given its geographical proximity and the potential impact on neighbouring countries. He emphasised that the country’s foreign policy is based on the status of permanent neutrality and advocates the resolution of conflicts exclusively through peaceful, political and diplomatic means. According to him, Turkmenistan has for decades participated in international efforts to reduce military tensions and opposes the use of force as a political tool. Turkmenistan’s position on weapons of mass destruction was highlighted separately. Hero Arkadag declared his categorical rejection of their use and recalled the country’s participation in key international treaties in the field of arms control, including the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons and the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty. Commitment to the Central Asian Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone was also emphasised. According to him, the consequences of using such weapons are far-reaching and long-term, affecting the population, the environment and the socio-economic development of the regions. In the second part of the interview, Hero Arkadag commented on reports of strikes on territories in the Caspian region against the backdrop of the Middle East conflict. He noted that the Caspian states have been developing cooperation and building a regional security system for over three decades. It was recalled that in 2018, the Caspian states signed the Convention on the Legal Status of the Caspian Sea, establishing it as a zone of peace, good-neighbourliness and security. The document stipulates that military activity by third states is inadmissible. Hero Arkadag stated that Turkmenistan considers any military action in the Caspian region unacceptable and expresses concern regarding such incidents. It was also noted that the country is considering a draft joint statement by the Caspian states, which highlights the risk of further escalation and threats to regional stability should the conflict widen.
The negotiations with the IAEA took place during Hero Arkadag’s visit to Austria
12.04.2026During his visit to the Republic of Austria, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, held a meeting with the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, Rafael Grossi. This was reported by the online publication AsmanNews. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of cooperation with the IAEA. Turkmenistan’s commitment to the principles of the peaceful use of nuclear energy and the strengthening of global security was emphasised. The development of cooperation in recent years was noted. Key areas of focus include healthcare, where, with the Agency’s support, modern diagnostic and treatment methods are being introduced and the disease control system is being improved. Issues relating to the expansion of the international legal framework were discussed. Turkmenistan’s participation in relevant international conventions was noted, including mechanisms for rapid notification and mutual assistance in emergencies. The parties reviewed the preparation of a new Country Framework Programme for 2026–2030. The document will define the priorities for technical cooperation, including the development of nuclear medicine and the enhancement of safety standards. Particular attention was paid to supporting landlocked developing countries. The role of peaceful nuclear energy as a tool for development was emphasised. Hero Arkadag proposed holding a high-level regional forum in Ashgabat to mark the anniversaries of the Treaty on a Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone in Central Asia and Turkmenistan’s accession to the IAEA. Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their readiness for further cooperation and exchanged best wishes.
Negotiations were held in Vienna between Hero Arkadag and Rabab Fatima
12.04.2026During his visit to the Republic of Austria, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, held a meeting with Rabab Fatima, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. The parties discussed Turkmenistan’s cooperation with the UN and its specialised agencies. The role of the country’s policy of positive neutrality in ensuring peace and sustainable development was emphasised. Rabab Fatima conveyed greetings from UN Secretary-General António Guterres to the Hero Arkadag. It was noted that Turkmenistan’s initiatives, announced at the International Vienna Energy and Climate Forum, are in line with the UN’s priorities, including the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. Hero Arkadag reaffirmed Turkmenistan’s commitment to expanding cooperation with the UN. At the conclusion of the meeting, the parties exchanged best wishes.
Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov discussed cooperation with the Head of UNIDO
12.04.2026During his visit to the Republic of Austria, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, held a meeting with Gerd Müller, Director-General of the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO). This was reported by AsmanNews. The parties discussed the development of cooperation and Turkmenistan’s participation in UNIDO projects. The country’s contribution to promoting initiatives in the field of sustainable industrial development and energy security was noted. Hero Arkadag emphasised the importance of cooperation with UNIDO. In this context, it was noted that on 29 June 2023, the city of Arkdag received a Certificate of Appreciation from UNIDO for the implementation of digital technologies and the development of a ‘smart’ city. Prospects for cooperation in industry were discussed. Among the priorities are the development of the carpet industry, the expansion of textile exports, and UNIDO’s participation in the implementation of the second phase of the Arkadag city development project. Particular attention was paid to the creation of a medical cluster in the city of Arkadag utilising modern technologies. The parties reviewed issues on the climate agenda. Turkmenistan confirmed its readiness to develop a Roadmap for cooperation with UNIDO for 2026–2030 in the field of ‘green’ industry and the fight against climate change. Turkmenistan’s regional initiatives were discussed, including the establishment of a Centre for Combating Desertification in Central Asia, the development of mechanisms for managing transboundary water resources, and the promotion of environmental projects in the Caspian Sea region. The initiative to establish a UN Regional Centre for Climate Technologies in Central Asia was also noted. UNIDO confirmed its interest in further developing its partnership with Turkmenistan. Following the meeting, the parties exchanged best wishes.
Hero Arkadag held negotiations with the Federal President of Austria
12.04.2026During his visit to the Republic of Austria, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, held a meeting with the Federal President of Austria, Alexander Van der Bellen. This was reported by TDH. The two sides exchanged greetings. Hero Arkadag conveyed greetings from President Serdar Berdimuhamedov. In response, Alexander Van der Bellen extended his best wishes to the Head of Turkmenistan and recalled their previous meeting in New York on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. The current state and prospects of bilateral cooperation were discussed. It was emphasised that the visit is seen as a step towards expanding cooperation in the political, economic and cultural-humanitarian spheres. The convergence of the two countries’ approaches on issues of neutrality was noted. The Turkmen side expressed its gratitude to Austria for its support of international initiatives, including participation in UN General Assembly resolutions. Separate mention was made of the support for Turkmenistan’s candidacy for the UN Security Council for the period 2031–2032. The parties also discussed cooperation within the framework of the Group of Friends of Neutrality and collaboration with the European Union. The development of contacts between the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan and the intensification of inter-parliamentary dialogue were noted. In the economic sphere, opportunities to increase trade turnover were discussed. The role of the Joint Turkmen-Austrian Commission was emphasised. It was proposed to hold its next meeting in June in Ashgabat. ‘Green’ energy, digitalisation and artificial intelligence were identified as promising areas. Turkmenistan is interested in Austria’s experience in the development of urban infrastructure, water treatment and the banking sector. The development of humanitarian cooperation, including academic exchanges, was noted. Cooperation continues with Graz University of Technology and the Vienna Diplomatic Academy. The parties also emphasised the importance of cultural ties. Vienna balls and concerts by the Turkmen-Austrian symphony orchestra ‘Galkynysh’ are held regularly in Ashgabat. Hero Arkadag invited the Federal President of Austria to visit Turkmenistan. Alexander Van der Bellen confirmed his readiness to further develop bilateral relations. At the conclusion of the meeting, the parties exchanged best wishes.
Turkmenistan took part in the preparations for the ‘Central Asia–Republic of Korea’ Summit
11.04.2026On 10 April 2026 in Seoul, Ahmet Gurbanov, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan, took part in the Senior Officials’ Meeting of the ‘Central Asia–Republic of Korea’ Cooperation Forum. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The participants discussed preparations for the First ‘Central Asia–Republic of Korea’ Summit. The meeting was chaired by Ms Eui-hae Cecilia Chung, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of the Republic of Korea. The Turkmen side noted the significance of the forum as a platform for the development of multilateral cooperation. It was confirmed that Turkmenistan was one of the first to support the initiative to hold the Summit in Seoul. Drafts of the final documents and organisational matters, including the preparation of side events, were discussed. Turkmenistan expressed its readiness for further joint work on their coordination. On the same day, Ahmet Gurbanov took part in a meeting of Deputy Foreign Affairs Ministers of Central Asian countries with the Foreign Affairs Minister of the Republic of Korea, Cho Hyun. The parties discussed issues of bilateral and regional cooperation. Particular attention was paid to cooperation within the framework of the ‘Central Asia – Republic of Korea’ Forum. It was noted that the upcoming Summit is viewed as an important stage in the development of dialogue and the expansion of cooperation in the diplomatic, trade and economic, investment and humanitarian spheres. The Turkmen side confirmed its readiness to actively participate in the preparation and conduct of the Summit.
Turkmenistan and UNESCO discussed prospects for cooperation
11.04.2026On 10 April, a video conference was held between Myahri Byashimova, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan, and Amir Piric, Director of the UNESCO Regional Office in Almaty. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the current state of affairs and prospects for cooperation. It was noted that cooperation with UNESCO remains an important area of Turkmenistan’s international humanitarian partnership. The main focus was on developing cultural dialogue and implementing joint projects in the organisation’s priority areas. Previously proposed initiatives were also reviewed, and approaches to their further promotion were agreed upon. The coordinating role of the UNESCO Regional Office in Almaty in the implementation of projects at national and regional levels was highlighted separately.
Serdar Berdimuhamedov has approved the membership of the Turkmen-Chinese Committee
11.04.2026On 10 April, the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, signed a Resolution appointing the heads of the Turkmen-Chinese Inter-governmental Committee on Cooperation and its subcommittees on the Turkmen side. This was reported by the news website AsmanNews. The document is aimed at further developing bilateral relations between Turkmenistan and the People’s Republic of China.
Turkmenistan and Tunisia have outlined ways to expand their partnership
10.04.2026On 8 April, Muhammetgeldi Ayazov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to Saudi Arabia, held a meeting with Mohamed Garali, Chargé d’Affaires ad interim of the Tunisian Embassy in Saudi Arabia. This was reported by the Orient news agency. During the negotiations, the parties discussed prospects for expanding bilateral cooperation in all areas of mutual interest. It should be noted that earlier, the Ambassador of Turkmenistan held a meeting with Khalid Bakhsh, Director of the Department of Reciprocity at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The Turkmen Ambassador to the US presented copies of his credentials
10.04.2026On 9 April, Esen Aydogdyev, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to the United States of America, presented copies of his credentials to Monica Crowley, Chief of Protocol of the United States, during an official ceremony held at Blair House, the presidential guest residence in Washington. This was reported by the diplomatic mission of Turkmenistan in the US. During the event, the parties exchanged views on topical issues concerning the further development of bilateral cooperation between Turkmenistan and the United States of America. The event was attended by representatives of the US Department of State, including Deputy Assistant Secretary of State John Pommersheim. Following the ceremony, the American side hosted an official reception in honour of the Heads of diplomatic missions who had presented copies of their credentials.
Turkmenistan took part in the Nowruz celebrations at UNESCO
10.04.2026On 7 April, a joint cultural event marking the celebration of Nowruz took place at UNESCO headquarters in Paris. The event was organised by the Permanent Missions to UNESCO of Turkmenistan and a number of Asian countries, including Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, India, Iran, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Pakistan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The event took place in UNESCO’s reception hall and included a concert, an exhibition and a tasting of national dishes. The guest of honour was UNESCO Assistant Director-General Anthony Kwaku Ohemeng-Boamah. Among the participants were representatives of French government bodies, international organisations, the diplomatic corps and the general public. Turkmenistan presented handmade national carpets, jewellery and souvenirs. A tasting of Turkmen cuisine was also organised for the guests. The cultural programme featured a musical ensemble led by Serdar Haydarov. The performance included pieces played on traditional instruments, such as the dutar and the gyjak. A fashion show was also held, showcasing a collection by Turkmen designer Gowher Pirkuliyeva alongside works by designers from Azerbaijan and Tajikistan.
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