Policy
Turkmenistan and Malaysia discussed cooperation in the agricultural sector
03.04.2026On 2 April, the Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Malaysia, M. Mashalov, met with the Malaysian Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Haji Mohamad bin Sabu. The meeting was attended by heads of departments within the ministry, representatives of the Malaysian Institute of Agricultural Research and Development, the South and Central Asia Division of the Malaysian Foreign Affairs Ministry, as well as staff from the Embassy of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The Ambassador noted the need to intensify cooperation in the agricultural sector and reaffirmed Turkmenistan’s openness to joint projects. Discussions covered the establishment of joint ventures, the digitalisation of agriculture, the exchange of expertise, the development of export logistics and environmentally friendly production. The parties considered specific areas: joint agricultural enterprises in Malaysia, processing of agricultural produce, support for investors, the introduction of precision farming, seed production, livestock farming, the use of drought-resistant crops, modernisation of irrigation, efficient water use and the simplification of phytosanitary and veterinary procedures. It was proposed to draft a Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries’ ministries of agriculture. Minister H.M. Sabu highlighted the effectiveness of trade and economic cooperation and noted the prospects for developing trade in fresh fruit and vegetables. He shared Malaysia’s experience in the field of irrigation systems and ‘smart farm’ projects. The Turkmen side was briefed on the activities of the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI). Discussions took place regarding the conclusion of a Cooperation Agreement between research institutes and the organisation of exchange visits for specialists. The Ambassador invited Malaysian specialists to take part in the international exhibitions ‘Agro Pack Turkmenistan – 2026’ and ‘Food Turkmenistan 2026’, which will be held in Ashgabat from 12 to 14 May.
Turkmenistan and Japan are strengthening their scientific and technological cooperation
03.04.2026On 1 April, Turkmenistan’s Ambassador to Japan, A. Bayramov, met with H. Koinuma, President of the Turkmen-Japanese Science and Technology Association, and representatives of Japanese companies collaborating with the association. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The meeting discussed the further development of scientific and technological cooperation between Turkmenistan and Japan. The possibility of new Japanese companies and organisations entering the Turkmen market was considered. Plans were discussed for the introduction of water purification technologies and equipment by the Japanese company ‘Tohkemy Corporation’. It is cooperating with the Oguz Han University of Engineering and Technology on the basis of a Memorandum of Understanding signed on 15 April 2025. They also reviewed a project by a professor from Chubu University on the processing of natural gas into liquefied gas for subsequent export and the production of helium from liquefied gas. In addition, the meeting participants were briefed on the capabilities of the Japanese organisation ‘Asia Seed’ in the development of human resources within the education systems of Asian countries.
Serdar Berdimuhamedov sent a message of congratulations to the President of Brazil
03.04.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, has sent a congratulatory message to the President of the Federative Republic of Brazil, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, to mark the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. This was reported by the website AsmanNews. The Head of State emphasised that bilateral relations are based on the principles of mutual respect, equality and trust. He noted Turkmenistan’s interest in further expanding cooperation. The President expressed confidence in the development of cooperation in the interests of both nations. He also wished Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva good health and well-being, and the people of Brazil progress and prosperity.
Turkmenistan and Tunisia have reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation
02.04.2026On 1 April, Rashid Meredov, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, held a telephone conversation with Mohamed Ali Nafti, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Migration and Tunisians Abroad of the Republic of Tunisia. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed topical issues on the bilateral agenda and reaffirmed their interest in developing political and diplomatic dialogue, as well as expanding trade, economic, cultural and humanitarian ties. At the conclusion of the conversation, the ministers reaffirmed their commitment to further expanding multifaceted cooperation between Turkmenistan and Tunisia.
Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan are focusing on developing Caspian logistics
02.04.2026A government delegation from Turkmenistan, headed by Deputy Prime Minister Nokerguly Atagulyev, visited Azerbaijan on 1 April to continue regional negotiations on the development of the ‘East–West’ route. Following discussions in Georgia, the focus in Baku was on the Caspian section of the Middle Corridor, reports the news agency Orient. During meetings with Azerbaijani officials, the parties discussed strengthening cooperation in the fields of logistics, energy and investment, emphasising the importance of the partnership between Ashgabat and Baku for the sustainability of the transit route. Particular attention was paid to the development of port and railway infrastructure. In particular, plans were considered for dredging at the port of Turkmenbashi to accommodate large-tonnage vessels and increase cargo throughput. The Turkmen delegation was also briefed on the experience of the Port of Baku, which handled over 100,000 TEU (twenty-foot equivalent units) in 2024. The digitalisation of transport was a separate topic of discussion. The parties noted that real-time data exchange between ports and railways would help speed up the transit of goods along the ‘East–West’ route. Nokerguly Atagulyev’s series of visits to Georgia and Azerbaijan signals Turkmenistan’s shift towards a more active and technology-driven logistics policy. Against this backdrop, the coordination of the ports of Turkmenbashi, Baku and Georgian hubs is seen as part of a broader strategy to create a single transport space between Central Asia, the Caucasus and Europe.
The Turkmen Ambassador discussed initiatives with the Japanese side
02.04.2026On 1 April, Turkmenistan’s Ambassador to Japan, A. Bayramov, held a meeting with the newly elected Chairman of the Japan-Turkmenistan Friendship Parliamentary League, Shinpei Matsushita. This was reported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The Ambassador congratulated Shinpei Matsushita on his appointment. The parties discussed the implementation of previously reached agreements and key areas of cooperation. The focus was on the initiative to hold an inter-parliamentary forum in the ‘Central Asia + Japan’ format in Ashgabat. They also discussed the development of inter-parliamentary ties, cooperation between political parties, and the strengthening of cooperation in the political-diplomatic, trade-economic and cultural-humanitarian spheres.
Serdar Berdimuhamedov sent a message of greeting to the exhibition participants
02.04.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, has sent a message of greeting to the participants of the ‘Cooperation and Development’ International Exhibition. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. The Head of State highlighted the importance of exhibitions and business forums in promoting the country’s economic potential, developing partnerships and facilitating the exchange of technologies. It was emphasised that state programmes are being implemented in Turkmenistan to modernise and diversify the economy, introduce digital solutions and attract investment. These measures, it was noted, create conditions for expanding foreign economic ties. The President expressed confidence that the exhibition would serve as a platform for establishing new business contacts and developing international cooperation. It was specifically noted that the country is developing cooperation with companies from more than 100 countries, expanding investment and trade partnerships. It is reported that the exhibition provides opportunities for discussing projects and exploring new areas of cooperation. The Head of State emphasised the role of international cooperation in modernising the economy and introducing technologies, as well as in strengthening long-term ties with foreign partners. In conclusion, the President of Turkmenistan wished the participants good health and success in developing cooperation.
Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan are actively developing parliamentary ties
01.04.2026On 30 March, as part of the First ‘Central Asia–European Union’ Interparliamentary Cooperation Forum, a meeting took place between representatives of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan and Sodiq Safoyev, Deputy Chairman of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan. This was reported by the press service of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan. During the meeting, the Turkmen delegation expressed its gratitude for the invitation to participate in the First ‘Central Asia–European Union’ Interparliamentary Cooperation Forum, taking place in the city of Samarkand, Republic of Uzbekistan, and conveyed its best wishes for the forum’s success. The parties noted that, due to the efforts of the Heads of State, relations between the two countries are effective across various spheres, and, building on the centuries-old experience of Turkmen-Uzbek ties, significant successes have been achieved in political, economic, cultural, humanitarian and parliamentary cooperation. It was emphasised that good-neighbourly cooperation between the countries is steadily developing and strengthening both bilaterally and within the framework of international organisations on the basis of mutually beneficial relations. During the meeting, the parties also noted that parliamentary dialogue has become an important part of expanding cooperation between the two countries, and that the establishment of bilateral parliamentary friendship groups and the holding of meetings between young and female parliamentarians are of great importance for the exchange of experience in legislative work.
Turkmenistan and Belarus are strengthening their transport and aviation partnership
01.04.2026On 31 March, Batyr Annayev, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan, met with Stanislav Chepurnoy, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Belarus. The parties reaffirmed their intention to develop business cooperation, according to the Orient news agency. The discussion focused on expanding air links to boost business contacts and tourism. The possibilities for deepening transport and logistics cooperation were also discussed, including new transit schemes and route optimisation. Particular attention was paid to preparations for the next meeting of the Belarusian-Turkmen Inter-governmental Commission on Economic Cooperation, where it is planned to sign new agreements to add to the existing body of more than 100 documents.
Turkmenistan took part in the ‘Central Asia–EU’ Forum in Samarkand
01.04.2026From 30 to 31 March, members of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan took part in the First ‘Central Asia–European Union’ Interparliamentary Cooperation Forum, held in Samarkand. This was reported by the press service of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan. During the forum, participants discussed current international issues, sustainable development and the prospects for strategic cooperation between the countries of Central Asia and the EU. In his speech, the representative of Turkmenistan emphasised the importance of the country’s neutral status, its peacekeeping initiatives and the support it receives from UN member states. Turkmenistan’s proposal to declare 2028 the International Year of International Law was also noted. Particular attention was paid at the forum to the role of inter-parliamentary dialogue in strengthening peace, friendship and cooperation between states. Participants also noted the importance of developing the ‘Central Asia–European Union’ format, which opens up new opportunities for regional cooperation and the revival of the Great Silk Road. Following the plenary session, the forum continued with breakout sessions.
The role of women in modern society was discussed in the Mejlis of Turkmenistan
01.04.2026A conference on the role of women in modern society was held at the Mejlis of Turkmenistan. The event was attended by MPs, representatives of the UN, UNESCO and foreign diplomatic missions, according to the news website Turkmenportal. Participants discussed issues relating to support for mothers and children, the state’s humanitarian policy, and the development of international cooperation in the field of women’s rights. Following the meeting, the importance of expanding educational, medical and economic opportunities for women, as well as strengthening their role in society, was emphasised.
Negotiations were held at the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan with the Turkish Ambassador
01.04.2026On 31 March, a meeting took place at the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan between Ahmet Gurbanov, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan, and Ahmet Demirok, Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey to Turkmenistan. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the development of bilateral cooperation and exchanged views on regional and international issues. The high level of political and diplomatic relations was noted. The positive experience of cooperation on international platforms and the readiness to support each other’s initiatives were emphasised. Particular attention was paid to trade and economic cooperation, as well as cooperation in the energy and transport sectors. The prospects for cultural and humanitarian ties were discussed, including the organisation of joint events and participation in international forums. Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their interest in further strengthening their partnership.
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