Policy
A new Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Turkmenistan has been appointed
16.03.2026The Foreign Affairs Ministry of the Republic of Korea has announced the appointment of Lee Won-jae as the new Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Turkmenistan. The Diplomat, who has 30 years of experience, will contribute to the development of bilateral relations, including the implementation of joint industrial and infrastructure projects between Seoul and Ashgabat, according to the Orient news agency. Lee Won-jae previously headed the diplomatic mission in Kyrgyzstan, which provided him with practical experience of working in Central Asia. At the South Korean Foreign Affairs Ministry, he also headed the economic cooperation department, which is significant given the expansion of South Korean companies’ activities in Turkmenistan’s energy and chemical sectors. His professional background also includes security matters: the Diplomat worked as a coordinator at the South Korean Ministry of Defence and served in diplomatic missions in Iran and Russia. Prior to his appointment in Ashgabat, he taught at the National Diplomatic Academy of Korea.
Turkmenistan has reaffirmed its commitment to the international fight against drug trafficking
16.03.2026On 9 March 2026, a delegation from Turkmenistan, led by the country’s Deputy Minister of the Internal Affairs, took part in the 69th session of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND), which was held at the United Nations Office in Vienna. This was reported by the press service of the diplomatic mission. The event was attended by representatives of member states, international organisations and the expert community. Participants discussed issues relating to combating illicit drug trafficking, strengthening international cooperation and developing effective strategies to combat drug-related crime and drug abuse. During the meeting, the Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs of Turkmenistan reaffirmed the country’s commitment to international cooperation in the fight against illicit drug trafficking and organised crime. He highlighted the measures being taken to strengthen border security, enhance the capacity of law enforcement agencies, and implement national programmes on drug prevention and public safety. It was also emphasised that Turkmenistan is actively participating in regional and international initiatives aimed at countering illicit drug trafficking and developing multilateral cooperation. On the sidelines of the session, a meeting was held with Oliver Stolpe, the regional representative of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime for Afghanistan, Central Asia, Iran and Pakistan. The parties discussed current issues of cooperation and prospects for further strengthening joint efforts in the fight against illicit drug trafficking, as well as ways to enhance regional coordination. In addition, the Turkmenistan delegation took part in parallel events, where it presented national experience and exchanged best practices with international partners, as well as familiarised itself with new approaches to the development of global anti-drug policy.
Turkmenistan and Russia discussed the development of their strategic partnership
16.03.2026On 13 March, a meeting took place in Moscow between Esen Aydogdyev, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to the Russian Federation, who is concluding his diplomatic mission, and Mikhail Galuzin, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of Russia. This was reported by the press service of the diplomatic mission. During the meeting, the parties exchanged views on key aspects of the deepened strategic partnership between Turkmenistan and the Russian Federation. At the conclusion of the meeting, the Ambassador expressed his gratitude to the leadership of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the support provided during his diplomatic mission in Moscow. In turn, Mikhail Galuzin thanked Esen Aydogdyev for his contribution to the development of Turkmen-Russian relations and wished him success in his new post.
Turkmenistan has delivered a humanitarian aid shipment for children in Iran
15.03.2026In Turkmenistan, charitable and religious activities continue during the holy month of Ramadan, the IIC reports. According to the directive of Serdar Berdimuhamedov, the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship sent humanitarian aid to the Islamic Republic of Iran. The shipment included medical supplies and hygiene products intended for children. The delivery was timed to coincide with the Night of Power. It is emphasized that such initiatives reflect traditions of mutual support and good-neighborly relations between states. On the same day, in the city of Arkadag, representatives of the Council of Elders and clergy visited the construction site of a new mosque. They reviewed the progress of the religious complex, which is designed to accommodate 30,000 people. It is reported that the facility will become one of the largest religious structures in Central Asia, combining elements of national architecture with modern construction solutions. The events concluded with a sadaqah-iftar, during which participants offered prayers for the well-being of the country and its people.
The President of Turkmenistan congratulated the nation on Night of Power
15.03.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, has congratulated the nation on the arrival of the sacred Night of Power – Laylat al-Qadr. This was reported by the news agency TDH. In his address, the Head of State emphasised the special significance of this night for Muslims and noted that it embodies the values of humanism, mercy and spiritual unity. The President recalled that during the month of Ramadan, particularly on the Night of Power, the country traditionally holds prayers, organises charitable iftar meals and commemorates the deceased. During these days, wishes for peace, prosperity and the further strengthening of Turkmenistan’s independence and neutrality are also expressed. It is noted that the traditions of Night of Power reflect the principles of justice, mutual respect and compassion. In this regard, on the occasion of this sacred night, pardons are granted to convicts in the country. The Head of State declared the continuation of the course towards the development of an independent and permanently neutral Turkmenistan, emphasising the implementation of significant international projects, the expansion of cooperation with foreign partners, and attention to the preservation of national heritage and traditions. In conclusion, Serdar Berdimuhamedov wished the citizens health, prosperity and success, expressing the hope that the prayers and good deeds performed during the month of Ramadan and on the Night of Power would be accepted.
Turkmenistan has outlined new steps in its partnership with the International Maritime Organisation
15.03.2026On 13 March, Rashid Meredov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan and the Minister for Foreign Affairs, reported on the expansion of Turkmenistan’s cooperation with the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) during a government meeting. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. It is noted that one of the country’s foreign policy priorities is cooperation with international organisations, including UN bodies and the IMO. Turkmenistan, a member of the Organisation since 26 August 1993, has acceded to 14 of its conventions and is working to bring national legislation into line with them. The Deputy Prime Minister proposed a number of initiatives to implement the country’s transport diplomacy and strengthen its partnership with the IMO. There are plans to establish a working group comprising relevant ministries to facilitate accession to conventions, including the Convention on Facilitation of International Maritime Traffic. Visits by IMO officials, seminars and practical conferences are also planned for 2026 in Turkmenistan to discuss prospects for cooperation. Having heard the report, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov noted the country’s productive work in meeting the requirements of the IMO conventions and approved the proposals, instructing the Minister of Foreign Affairs to implement them.
Turkmenistan will present a national pavilion at the World Expo in Belgrade
15.03.2026On 13 March, during a government meeting, Nokerguly Atagulyev, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan, reported on preparations for Turkmenistan’s participation in the ‘EXPO-2027’ World Specialised Exhibition in Belgrade (Serbia). This was reported by the state news agency TDH. As part of the preparations, construction work and the design of the national pavilion are underway; it will be presented under the motto ‘Turkmenistan – the Melody of Peace, the Land of Health’. The Deputy Prime Minister presented the relevant proposal to the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov. Having heard the report, the Head of State emphasised the importance of the country’s participation in major international events for the development of foreign economic relations and instructed that preparations for the exhibition continue.
Beijing discussed the prospects for the Turkmen-Chinese Investment Forum
15.03.2026On 13 March, a presentation was held in Beijing for the Turkmen-Chinese Investment Forum, which is due to take place on 28–30 April in Ashgabat. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The event was organised by the China Overseas Development Association (CODA) with the support of the Embassy of Turkmenistan in the PRC and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan. Turkmenistan’s Ambassador to China, Parahat Durdyev, spoke about the country’s investment opportunities, highlighting the stable macroeconomic situation and incentives for foreign investors. Representatives of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan presented projects in the fields of raw materials processing, transport and logistics, as well as the development of transit corridors involving China. The event concluded with a session of direct negotiations between Chinese entrepreneurs and the Turkmen side.
Turkmenistan and the ICRC discussed the development of humanitarian cooperation
15.03.2026On 13 March, a meeting took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan between the country’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Rashid Meredov, and Biljana Milošević, Head of the International Committee of the Red Cross’s regional office for Central Asia. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed topical issues of humanitarian cooperation and prospects for further interaction. The Turkmen side emphasised the country’s commitment to its status of permanent neutrality, the strengthening of peace and the development of constructive international cooperation, paying particular attention to the humanitarian aspects of regional security and the protection of the civilian population. It was noted that Turkmenistan consistently adheres to the norms of international humanitarian law and upholds the principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality and independence in humanitarian activities. Ashgabat also highly commended the work of the International Committee of the Red Cross in providing assistance to people in difficult humanitarian situations and promoting international humanitarian law. The parties exchanged views on the implementation of the initiative by the President of Turkmenistan to declare 2028 the Year of International Law, and also discussed monitoring the humanitarian situation in the region and opportunities for expanding cooperation, including the exchange of experience, expert consultations and joint training activities. Particular attention was paid to strengthening the capacity of national bodies involved in humanitarian response.
The Ambassador of Turkmenistan took part in the ‘C5+1’ meeting in New Delhi
14.03.2026The Turkmen Ambassador to India, Shalar Geldinazarov, attended a diplomatic dinner at the US Embassy in New Delhi. The meeting took place in the ‘C5+1’ format and brought together the ambassadors of Central Asian countries accredited to India. This was reported by Infoportal. The event was hosted by Sergio Gor, US Special Envoy for South and Central Asia. It was also attended by the ambassadors of Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. Following the meeting, Sergio Gor posted on social media platform X that the negotiations had been productive. He noted the regular engagement between the US and the countries of Central Asia within the ‘C5+1’ framework. The meeting took place against the backdrop of ongoing diplomatic dialogue between Turkmenistan and the US. In January 2026, Sergio Gor paid a visit to Turkmenistan. On 23 January, he met with the Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. On the same day, the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, received the American diplomat alongside US Secretary of the Army Daniel Driscoll. The parties discussed trade and economic cooperation, regional security issues and bilateral relations.
Turkmenistan will send humanitarian aid to Iran
14.03.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, has signed a Decree on the dispatch of humanitarian aid to the Islamic Republic of Iran. This was reported by TDH. The Decree was issued to mark the month of Ramadan and the sacred Night of Power – Laylat al-Qadr – as well as in keeping with the traditions of friendship and good neighbourliness. According to the Decree, a humanitarian consignment will be sent to the people of Iran, primarily to children, on behalf of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship. It will include medicines, medical supplies and other products.
Large-scale tree planting will take place in Turkmenistan on 21 March
14.03.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, has signed a Resolution on the organisation of a nationwide tree-planting campaign. According to the document, the mass planting of saplings will take place on 21 March 2026. This was reported by the online publication AsmanNews. The decision was taken with the aim of expanding forest areas, maintaining green spaces and implementing the Resolution ‘On the planting of saplings in Turkmenistan in 2026’. Ministries, sectoral departments and the governorships of the velayats, as well as the cities of Ashgabat and Arkadag, have been instructed to ensure a high level of organisation for the campaign.
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