Policy
The President of Turkmenistan congratulated the King of Bahrain on National Day
16.12.2025President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov sent a congratulatory message to King of Bahrain Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the people of the country on the occasion of the National Day of the Kingdom of Bahrain. This was reported by AsmanNews. The message emphasizes the high value placed on the multifaceted cooperation between Turkmenistan and the Kingdom of Bahrain and expresses confidence in its further development in the interests of both nations. The head of state wished the King of Bahrain good health and well-being, and the people of the country peace, progress, and prosperity
The President of Turkmenistan awarded prizes to winners of international Olympiads and competitions
16.12.2025President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov participated in a ceremonial event honoring schoolchildren, university students, and athletes who won prizes at international academic olympiads and sports competitions, as well as their teachers and coaches, TDH (https://tdh.gov.tm/ru/post/47185/prezident-turkmenistana-prinyal-uchastie-v-ceremonii-nagrazhdeniya-grazhdan-otlichivshihsya-v-sferah-obrazovaniya-i-sporta) reports. The event took place at the Martial Arts Sports Complex in the Olympic Village of Ashgabat. Attendees included the Chairman of the Mejlis, deputies of the Cabinet of Ministers, heads of ministries and agencies, representatives of the military and law enforcement, the hakim of Ashgabat, members of the diplomatic corps, public organizations, universities, national sports federations, and media representatives. Before the official proceedings, the head of state visited an exhibition in the complex’s foyer. The display featured medals, trophies, and certificates won by Turkmen athletes at international competitions, samples of domestically produced sports equipment, and themed artworks. Video presentations on the performances of national teams and the development of physical culture and sports in the country were also shown. The main ceremony took place in the complex’s conference hall. Following the performance of the State Anthem of Turkmenistan and the raising of the national flag, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov addressed the participants. He congratulated the youth on their successful performances at international olympiads and competitions and highlighted the role of teachers and coaches in preparing the prize-winners. The head of state emphasized that the development of science, education, and sports remains one of the key directions of state policy. Next, the Presidential Decree awarding the winners and prize-winners of international academic olympiads and their instructors was read. Schoolchildren and students who achieved high results were awarded monetary prizes as follows: • Third place and bronze medals — 40,000 manat • Second place and silver medals — 70,000 manat • First place and gold medals — 100,000 manat Teachers who prepared the prize-winners of international olympiads received monetary awards of 100,000 manat. A separate part of the ceremony was dedicated to honoring athletes and their coaches. Athletes who won prizes at international competitions received monetary awards: • Third place — 40,000 manat • Second place — 70,000 manat Coaches who trained athletes—prize-winners of international tournaments—were also awarded monetary prizes. Athletes and coaches who won gold medals at world-class competitions were presented by the President of Turkmenistan with the keys to white 2025 Toyota Camry HEV 2.5L vehicles. The event also featured concert performances and demonstration displays by athletes in various sports. After the ceremony, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov posed for photographs with the awarded youth, teachers, athletes, and coaches. A festive sadaqa was held in the Olympic Village, and prayers were offered for the further development of education and sports, the country’s prosperity, and new international achievements of Turkmenistan.
Hero-Arkadag awarded commemorative medal marking 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's neutrality
16.12.2025The National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov has been awarded the anniversary medal “Türkmenistanyň Bitaraplygynyň 30 ýyllygyna” and a set of commemorative badges. The corresponding decree was signed by the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, according to Turkmenportal, citing the news program “Vatan.” The document notes the contribution of the Hero-Arkadag to the organization and conduct of international events within the framework of the International Year of Peace and Trust and the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's permanent neutrality. It also takes into account the activities of the State Organizing Commission, the implementation of the policy of neutrality in national legislation, as well as proposals received from representatives of public associations, labor collectives, and citizens of the country.
Turkmenistan and Equatorial Guinea discussed the development of bilateral relations
16.12.2025On December 15, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Serdar Muhammetdurdyev held a meeting with the newly appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Equatorial Guinea to Turkmenistan Luciano Nkogo Ndong Ayekaba (residing in Moscow). The ambassador presented copies of his credentials, according to the press service (https://www.mfa.gov.tm/ru/news/5813) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The parties confirmed their commitment to developing bilateral relations in the political, trade, economic, cultural, and humanitarian spheres. During the talks, they discussed issues related to strengthening the legal framework for cooperation. Special attention was paid to cooperation within international organizations, primarily the United Nations. They also considered opportunities for expanding trade, economic, and cultural ties. Ambassador Luciano Nkogo Ndong Ayekaba thanked the Turkmen side for its congratulations and expressed his readiness to promote the development of bilateral relations.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan discussed cooperation with the Austrian-Turkmen Society
16.12.2025On December 15, Deputy Foreign Minister of Turkmenistan Myahri Byashimova met with the head of the Austrian-Turkmen Society, Neda Berger, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the current state of Turkmen-Austrian cooperation, focusing on cultural and humanitarian issues. The role of the Austrian-Turkmen Society in the development of bilateral relations was noted. During the meeting, plans and projects for 2026 involving the society were reviewed. Neda Berger's personal contribution to strengthening cooperation between Turkmenistan and the Republic of Austria was highlighted. The Turkmen side expressed gratitude for Neda Berger's participation in events dedicated to the International Year of Peace and Trust, the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's permanent neutrality, and International Neutrality Day. Neda Berger also received congratulations on being awarded prestigious honors
Turkmenistan represented at UN Alliance of Civilizations forum
16.12.2025On December 14, a delegation from Turkmenistan led by Deputy Foreign Minister Ahmet Gurbanov took part in the 11th Global Forum of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) in Riyadh. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The forum brought together representatives of governments, youth and women's organizations, civil society, and the media from different countries. The central theme was the development of dialogue and mutual respect in a multipolar world. Speaking at the forum, Ahmet Gurbanov noted the role of the UN Alliance of Civilizations against the backdrop of growing mistrust and polarization in international relations. He emphasized the consistency of UNAOC's activities with Turkmenistan's initiative to declare 2025 the International Year of Peace and Trust. The Deputy Minister presented Turkmenistan's proposals for joint work with the Alliance. These include promoting a culture of peace and mediation, developing humanitarian and intercultural dialogue, creating regional and youth cooperation platforms, and strengthening trust between peoples. At the end of the forum, participants adopted the Riyadh Declaration, which defines the further development of the UN Alliance of Civilizations.
Turkmenistan and Sao Tome and Principe have established diplomatic relations
16.12.2025On December 11, Turkmenistan and the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe established diplomatic relations. The signing ceremony of the Protocol took place at the building of the Turkmenistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the press service (https://www.mfa.gov.tm/ru/news/5810) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan reported. The document was signed by Rashid Meredov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan and Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Celso Vaz do Nascimento Matos, Minister of Health of the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe. The parties congratulated the governments and peoples of the two countries on the establishment of diplomatic relations. It was noted that this lays the foundation for the development of political-diplomatic, trade-economic, and cultural-humanitarian cooperation, as well as for interaction on international platforms, primarily within the framework of the United Nations.
The fifth meeting of the Heads of the Foreign Affairs Ministries of Afghanistan's neighbouring countries will be held in Ashgabat
15.12.2025Afghanistan's neighbouring countries have agreed to hold a fifth meeting at the level of Foreign Affairs Ministers in Ashgabat, according to the Iranian Foreign Affairs Ministry following a meeting of special representatives in Tehran. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. Representatives from Turkmenistan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, China, Russia and Iran participated in the negotiations. They supported efforts to reduce tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan and agreed to hold a second regional meeting in Islamabad in March 2026. The parties emphasised the importance of regional integration in resolving the problems of the Middle East and expressed their readiness to contribute to stability in Afghanistan, as well as to the fight against terrorism, smuggling and drug crime.
The President of Turkmenistan congratulated the King of Bahrain on the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations
15.12.2025President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov sent a congratulatory message to King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Turkmenistan and the Kingdom of Bahrain. This was reported by the news agency TDH. The message notes that bilateral relations are based on the principles of mutual respect and equality, as well as on common goals of sustainable development. The Head of State confirmed Turkmenistan's interest in further expanding cooperation and expressed confidence in its steady development. The President of Turkmenistan wished the King of Bahrain good health and well-being, and the people of the Kingdom of Bahrain peace and prosperity.
Palestinian Ambassador highly praised the role and achievements of Turkmen women
15.12.2025Palestinian Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Turkmenistan Rana Abu Hijleh took part in the International Conference ‘The Role of Women in Modern Society: Promoting International Cooperation for Sustainable Development,’ which was held in the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone. This was reported by the online news resource TerraNews. The Diplomat shared her positive impressions of the country, noting the hospitality of the Turkmen people and the foreign policy of the state. She paid special attention to the architecture of Ashgabat, emphasising the harmony and atmosphere of tranquillity created by the white marble buildings. The Ambassador highly praised the level of organisation of the forum and its topics, noting the contribution of Oguljahan Atabayeva, Vice-President for Medical Activities of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation, and the importance of the conference for expanding opportunities for women. According to her, the event clearly demonstrates Turkmenistan's attention to the role of women in society and their professional development. The Head of the diplomatic mission also emphasised the high potential of Turkmen women, their active participation both in preserving cultural heritage — carpet weaving and embroidery — and in modern fields, including science and technology. In conclusion, she expressed her gratitude to the country's leadership and wished the women of Turkmenistan further success, noting the growth of their representation in government bodies and key professions. The Palestinian Diplomat's participation in the conference confirmed Turkmenistan's active international humanitarian agenda and its efforts to expand dialogue with the countries of the Middle East.
Visit of the UN Deputy Secretary-General to Turkmenistan: focus on peace and cooperation
14.12.2025Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Deputy Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Haoliang Xu paid an official visit to Turkmenistan from 11 to 13 December. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. He took part in events dedicated to the International Year of Peace and Trust and the 30th anniversary of the country's Permanent Neutrality. In Ashgabat, Haoliang Xu spoke at the International Forum on Peace and Trust, emphasising the importance of Turkmenistan's neutrality for strengthening peace, sustainable development and regional cooperation. On behalf of UNDP, he reaffirmed his support for initiatives aimed at improving the well-being of the population and developing an inclusive society. As part of his visit, the UN Deputy Secretary-General also participated in celebrations marking the 30th anniversary of neutrality, including the opening of the architectural complex of neutrality, the flag-raising ceremony, a gala concert and a thematic exhibition, the UNDP reported.
Xi Jinping congratulated the President of Turkmenistan on the 30th anniversary of neutrality
14.12.2025The President of the People's Republic of China, Xi Jinping, sent congratulations to the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the proclamation of the country's Permanent Neutrality status. This was reported by TDH. The message notes that, on the initiative of Turkmenistan, the UN General Assembly declared this year the International Year of Peace and Trust. Xi Jinping congratulated the Turkmen side on holding the Peace and Trust Forum dedicated to this date. The Head of China emphasised that China and Turkmenistan are close friends and partners, and that Beijing supports Ashgabat's policy of permanent neutrality and its efforts to strengthen international and regional stability.
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