Policy
In Turkmenistan, the results of the conference on promoting gender equality were summarized
27.03.2026Following the conference “Promoting Gender Equality: Gender Equality and Inter-Parliamentary Dialogue on Strengthening the Legislative Framework to Combat Gender-Based Violence”, held in Ashgabat, representatives of international organizations and Turkmenistan’s government bodies delivered remarks, the press service of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan reports. Kemal Goshliyev, Head of the UN Population Fund (UNFPA) representation in Turkmenistan, expressed gratitude to the Turkmen side for the high level of organization of the forum and highlighted the importance of international cooperation in advancing women’s rights. According to him, preventing violence against women is not only a legal task but also a crucial condition for sustainable development, social stability, and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Farrukh Usmonov, Executive Director of the Asian Forum of Parliamentarians on Population and Development, emphasized that the organization has supported parliamentarians’ work for over 40 years. He noted that the conference became an important platform for exchanging experiences between Asian and European countries in the field of gender equality. In his view, special attention should be given to improving legislation, cooperating with civil society, and expanding women’s access to education, employment, and entrepreneurship. Oguldzhennet Berdilieva, Chairperson of the National Center of Trade Unions of Turkmenistan and the Central Council of the Union of Women of Turkmenistan, stated that the country attaches great importance at the state level to ensuring equal rights and opportunities for women. She stressed that the legislative framework in this area is being progressively improved, and ongoing programs focus on supporting families, motherhood, childhood, and increasing women’s participation in public life. According to her, the conference outcomes will contribute to further development of international cooperation and the enhancement of legal mechanisms in the field of gender equality. Bayramgozel Myradova, Chairperson of the Committee on Science, Education, Culture, and Youth Policy of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan, said that the conference served as an effective platform to promote Turkmenistan’s positive experience on the international stage. She highlighted the importance of inter-parliamentary engagement, parliamentary diplomacy, and the exchange of legislative practices. In her view, the initiatives proposed during the dialogue will help expand women’s rights and opportunities, strengthen their social and economic protection, and further develop partnerships between parliaments. During the speeches, it was emphasized that gender equality is not only a matter of protecting women’s rights but also a key condition for building a just, sustainable, and democratic society.
Turkmenistan’s Achievements Over the Years of Independence Discussed in Seoul
27.03.2026On March 25, an international conference marking the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s independence was held at the Hankuk University of Foreign Studies (HUFS) in South Korea, according to the news website Asmannews. The event brought together representatives of government bodies, diplomats from Central Asian countries, faculty members, students, and media representatives. Turkmenistan’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, Begenc Durdiyev, spoke about the country’s achievements since gaining independence, emphasized the importance of Turkmenistan’s permanent neutrality, and presented the book by President Serdar Berdimuhamedow titled “Turkmenistan’s Neutrality — A Bright Path of Peace and Trust.” The conference also covered the development of Turkmen-Korean relations, including the growth of trade, the expansion of contacts and cultural-humanitarian cooperation, as well as prospects for economic collaboration. Special attention was given to the symbolism of the 2026 motto and the role of Akhal-Teke horses in Turkmen culture.
Turkmenistan participated in the “India – Central Asia” conference
27.03.2026On March 25–26, 2026, an international conference titled “India – Central Asia: Connectivity, Security, and Sustainable Partnership in a Multipolar World” was held in New Delhi, the Turkmen Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported. A delegation from Turkmenistan participated in the event, led by G. Yusupova, Rector of the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The conference featured thematic sessions on political, economic, cultural, and humanitarian cooperation between India and the Central Asian countries. Speaking at the session “Strengthening Economic Cooperation between India and Central Asia”, G. Yusupova outlined Turkmenistan’s approaches to developing collaboration in this area.
Expansion of trade and economic ties with the EU was discussed in Ashgabat
27.03.2026On March 26, the business forum “New Horizons for Strengthening Connectivity, Attracting Investment and Sustainable Development” was held at the capital’s Ýyldyz Hotel as part of expanding the multifaceted dialogue between Turkmenistan and the European Union. It was attended by representatives of Turkmenistan’s state institutions, diplomatic missions, international organizations and foreign businesses, AsmanNews reported. The participants discussed the development of cooperation between Turkmenistan and the European Union, including the improvement of the business environment, expansion of trade and attraction of investment. Particular attention was paid to strengthening the legal framework for entrepreneurship and supporting private sector exports. During the forum, the importance of integration into the global trading system and advancing Turkmenistan’s accession process to the World Trade Organization was noted. According to the participants, this would create additional opportunities for attracting investment and technologies. The second session addressed issues of transport and logistics connectivity. The discussions focused on the digitalization of customs procedures, trade facilitation and infrastructure development within the East–West and North–South international corridors. The third session was devoted to the green economy, renewable energy sources and the reduction of methane emissions. The participants discussed the introduction of environmentally friendly technologies and the expansion of cooperation with European partners in this area. As part of the forum, a number of bilateral documents aimed at developing investment cooperation were signed. Following the event, the participants noted the potential for further strengthening partnership. Bilateral meetings between representatives of state institutions, businesses and European partners were also held on the sidelines of the forum.
President of Turkmenistan received congratulations from the ECO Secretary-General
27.03.2026Secretary-General of the Economic Cooperation Organization Asad Majeed Khan sent a congratulatory letter to President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov on the occasion of Oraza and Nowruz holidays. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. In his message, he extended warm wishes to the Government and people of Turkmenistan. The ECO chief expressed hope that the holidays would contribute to strengthening peace, prosperity and cooperation in the region, as well as to fostering friendly relations and solidarity among countries.
The Turkmen Ambassador in Islamabad received the new Portuguese Ambassador
26.03.2026On 25 March, the new Portuguese Ambassador to Pakistan, Paulo Miguel Guedes Domingues, paid a visit to the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Islamabad to meet with the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to Pakistan, Atajan Movlamov. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. During the meeting, the Turkmen Ambassador congratulated the Portuguese diplomat on his appointment and wished him success and fruitful work in Pakistan. The parties discussed issues relating to the functioning of the diplomatic corps in the Pakistani capital and cooperation with the country’s state and private organisations. Following the negotiations, both sides reaffirmed their mutual desire to maintain regular contacts within the diplomatic community.
A forum on gender equality has begun in Ashgabat
26.03.2026A forum entitled ‘Advancing Gender Equality: An Inter-Parliamentary Dialogue to Strengthen Legislative Frameworks to Ensure Progress on Gender Equality and Gender-Based Violence’ has opened in Ashgabat. This was reported by the press service of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan. The event is organised by the Mejlis of Turkmenistan in conjunction with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). Participants are discussing the implementation of state policy on gender equality, measures to prevent and combat gender-based violence, and the incorporation of universally recognised norms of international law into national legislation. In addition, the focus is on the development and practical application of inclusive laws, as well as the improvement of social protection and accountability systems, taking gender aspects into account.
Putin emphasised the strategic partnership between Russia and Turkmenistan
26.03.2026Relations between Russia and Turkmenistan are characterised by a deep strategic partnership. This was stated by the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin, in a message of congratulations to the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, on the occasion of the spring festival of Nowruz, reports TDH. Putin expressed confidence in the further development of cooperation in all areas, aimed at the welfare of the peoples and the strengthening of security in Central Asia and the Caspian region. The Russian President wished Serdar Berdimuhamedov good health and success in his work, and the people of Turkmenistan happiness and prosperity.
Turkmenistan and the EU discussed the development of their partnership
26.03.2026On 25 March, a meeting took place between Myahri Byashimova, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, and Charlotte Adrian, Head of the Central Asia and Afghanistan Unit at the European Commission’s Directorate-General for International Partnerships (DG INTPA). This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed prospects for cooperation between Turkmenistan and the European Union. Particular attention was paid to trade and economic ties and the development of transport and transit connectivity between Central Asia and the EU. Issues relating to cooperation in the energy sector were considered separately. Interest in continuing sector-specific dialogue was confirmed, as well as in developing partnerships in the field of ‘green’ energy and the climate agenda. EU projects in Turkmenistan and the region were also discussed, including initiatives in the fields of youth, sustainable energy, trade and digital connectivity. Following the meeting, a commitment was reaffirmed to further strengthen cooperation both bilaterally and within the framework of the ‘Central Asia–European Union’ dialogue.
The Foreign Ministry discussed the implementation of the National Plan for Gender Equality
26.03.2026On 25 March, a meeting was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan to discuss the implementation of the recommendations of the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women and the Universal Periodic Review regarding gender equality. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The event was attended by the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Myahri Byashimova; the Vice-Chair of the Committee, Marianne Mikko; representatives of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan, the Office of the Ombudsman, relevant ministries and international organisations, including the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and UNFPA. Turkmenistan’s commitment to its international obligations in the field of women’s rights, including the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, was noted. The Committee’s recommendations, adopted in 2024, are viewed as a basis for further steps. Participants discussed the implementation of the Roadmap, the development of mechanisms to protect women’s rights, and inter-ministerial cooperation. The implementation of the ‘National Action Plan on Gender Equality for 2026–2030’ was reviewed. Following the meeting, the importance of cooperation with international organisations and the use of international experience to improve the national system for ensuring equal rights and opportunities was emphasised.
Serdar Berdimuhamedov sent a message of congratulations to the President of Bangladesh
26.03.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, has sent a message of congratulations to the President of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, Mohammed Shahabuddin, on the occasion of the 55th anniversary of the country’s independence. This was reported by TDH. The Head of State wished Mohammed Shahabuddin good health, happiness and prosperity. He also extended his wishes for peace, further progress and prosperity to the people of Bangladesh.
Turkmenistan and Japan discussed current issues on the bilateral agenda
26.03.2026On 25 March, Atadurdy Bayramov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to Japan, held a meeting with Kunimitsu Ayano, Japan’s Foreign Affairs Minister. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. During the meeting, the Turkmen diplomat thanked the Japanese side for its assistance in organising the visit of the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, to Japan, which took place in December 2025. He also confirmed Ashgabat’s readiness to host Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in Turkmenistan at a time convenient for the Japanese side. The interlocutors reviewed the implementation of agreements reached following high-level contacts and discussed priority areas of bilateral cooperation. The focus was on political and diplomatic interaction, trade and economic ties, cultural and humanitarian contacts, inter-parliamentary cooperation, energy security issues and coordination in multilateral international forums. In addition, Kunimitsu Ayano expressed her gratitude to the leadership of Turkmenistan for their assistance in establishing a humanitarian corridor, which ensured the safe evacuation of Japanese citizens from Iran against the backdrop of the current situation in the country.
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