Policy
France highlighted Turkmenistan’s role as a bridge between Europe and Asia
17.04.2026France supports the development of EU cooperation with Central Asia and highlights the role of the region and Turkmenistan as a consistent and secure bridge between Europe and Asia. This was stated by France’s Permanent Representative to the European Union, Philippe Leglise-Costa, during negotiations with the Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Belgium, Sapar Palvanov, according to the news website Turkmenportal. The parties discussed current cooperation and prospects for its expansion, emphasising the importance of the practical implementation of interregional partnership at the bilateral level. Turkmenistan reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening its role in developing ties between Europe and Central Asia. Issues relating to energy, critical resources and climate change were also raised. The participants noted the positive momentum in Turkmenistan’s relations with France and expressed interest in further deepening cooperation.
Turkmenistan took part in a UN event on the development of public services in New York
17.04.2026A delegation from Turkmenistan, led by Vepa Hajiyev, Turkmenistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN, took part in a side event on the theme ‘Excellence for Public Service Delivery to Achieve the Sustainable Development Goals’, held on 14 April at the UN Headquarters in New York as part of the ECOSOC Youth Forum. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan. The event was organised by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) and the State Agency for Public Services and Social Innovation under the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan. Participants discussed the improvement of public services, building trust in government institutions, and their role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. Particular attention was paid to the quality criteria for public services and the practical application of the ASAN Service Index. Turkmenistan’s participation underscored the country’s interest in developing international cooperation and modernising the public administration system.
Forum in Ashgabat outlines prospects for energy partnership
17.04.2026An International Scientific and Practical Conference entitled ‘Turkmenistan–People’s Republic of China: 20 Years of Strategic Partnership in the Gas Sector’ was held at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Ashgabat. Participants discussed the development of energy cooperation and the prospects for joint projects. This was reported by TDH. The forum was attended by heads of relevant departments, representatives of oil and gas companies, and international experts. The main focus was on the development of the fuel and energy sector. It was noted that cooperation in the gas sector remains a key area of interaction between Turkmenistan and China. Participants emphasised the importance of the ‘Turkmenistan–China’ gas pipeline and projects at the ‘Galkynysh’ field. Plans for further development of the field and increased gas supplies were discussed. Ding Xuexiang, First Vice-Chairman of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China, stated that Turkmenistan remains one of the main suppliers of gas to China. He also noted a readiness to expand cooperation, including the introduction of low-carbon technologies. Dai Houliang, Chairman of the Board of Directors of CNPC, outlined prospects for increasing capacity and the further development of energy projects. Following the plenary session, the State Concern ‘Türkmengaz’ and ‘CNPC Amudarya Petroleum Company Ltd.’ signed an Agreement on the construction of facilities to produce 10 billion cubic metres of gas per year as part of the fourth phase of the ‘Galkynysh’ field development. The conference continued with thematic sessions. Participants discussed the resource base, investment projects and the development of export infrastructure. Projects in gas chemistry and processing were considered separately, as was the construction of the ‘Turkmenistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan–India’ gas pipeline. The second session focused on cooperation in science and education, including staff training and the implementation of environmental standards within the industry. At the conclusion of the forum, it was noted that the accumulated experience of cooperation provides a foundation for the further development of partnerships in the gas sector.
Turkmenistan and China held the seventh meeting of the intergovernmental committee
17.04.2026The seventh meeting of the Turkmen-Chinese Inter-governmental Committee on Cooperation took place in Ashgabat. The parties discussed key areas of cooperation and signed a package of bilateral documents. This was reported by the website AsmanNews. A meeting of the Committee’s leaders was held prior to the plenary session. It was noted that Turkmen-Chinese dialogue is developing at a high level and is supported at the highest state level. At the meeting, it was emphasised that the Committee remains the main mechanism for coordinating cooperation in the political-diplomatic, trade-economic and humanitarian spheres. The main focus was on trade and the economy. China remains one of Turkmenistan’s largest foreign trade partners. The parties discussed expanding trade turnover, diversifying exports and developing business contacts. The energy sector was identified as a key area. Issues regarding the implementation of existing agreements and increasing gas supplies within the framework of the ‘Turkmenistan–China’ gas pipeline project were considered. Projects in the transport and logistics sector were discussed. The parties expressed interest in aligning the ‘Revival of the Great Silk Road’ strategy with the ‘Belt and Road’ initiative, as well as in the development of international transport corridors. Particular attention was paid to the modernisation of railway infrastructure and the development of logistics. Projects at the ‘Garlyk’ field and the development of the Garlyk potash mining complex were discussed. In the industrial sector, the parties discussed the introduction of technologies and the implementation of projects in the chemical, textile and construction industries. China confirmed its readiness to cooperate in the field of digitalisation and high technologies. Agriculture was also identified as a priority. Issues relating to product processing, water-saving technologies and scientific cooperation were examined. Topics such as the digital economy, e-commerce, ‘smart’ cities and the application of artificial intelligence were discussed. A separate section was devoted to cooperation in the humanities. Discussions centred on education, science, cultural exchanges, as well as cooperation in healthcare, sport and tourism. The parties confirmed their close alignment on the international agenda and their intention to continue coordination within international organisations, primarily the UN. Following the meeting, agreements and memoranda were signed in the fields of energy, education, science, transport, culture, medicine and artificial intelligence, as well as a cooperation programme for 2026–2030. The minutes of the Committee meeting were signed. The parties noted that the agreements reached are aimed at further developing Turkmen-Chinese cooperation.
The President of Turkmenistan received the Vice-Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China
17.04.2026On 16 April, the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, received Ding Xuexiang, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and First Vice-Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China, who had arrived on a visit at the behest of Chinese President Xi Jinping. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. Ding Xuexiang conveyed greetings from Xi Jinping to the Head of State and noted the importance of the strategic partnership with Turkmenistan. The President of Turkmenistan returned the greetings and emphasised that the country appreciates the Chinese leadership’s attention to bilateral cooperation. The parties noted that cooperation is based on the principles of trust, respect and consideration of interests. This enables the implementation of joint projects and the strengthening of the strategic partnership. The role of the Turkmen-Chinese Inter-governmental Committee on Cooperation was highlighted separately. The President wished the committee success in holding its next meeting. During the meeting, key areas of cooperation were discussed – the economy, culture, science and education. The fuel and energy sector remains the main focus. This year, the countries are marking the 20th anniversary of their gas cooperation. The Head of State announced plans to launch the fourth phase of development of the ‘Galkynysh’ field in the Mary velayat. He also noted the importance of regular political dialogue and recalled previous high-level visits. The parties reaffirmed their effective cooperation within the framework of the United Nations and their mutual support for international initiatives. The ‘Central Asia–China’ framework and the ‘Belt and Road’ initiative were cited as significant platforms. The potential for cooperation in the cultural and humanitarian sphere was noted, including projects to preserve historical heritage. The President of Turkmenistan emphasised that the development of relations with China remains a priority of the country’s foreign policy. Following the meeting, the parties expressed confidence in the further expansion of the Turkmen-Chinese strategic partnership.
Turkmenistan and Armenia discussed the development of cooperation
16.04.2026On 15 April, Ahmet Gurbanov, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan, held a meeting with Arsen Avagyan, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Armenia to Turkmenistan. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed key areas of Turkmen-Armenian cooperation. It was noted that high-level visits contribute to the development of inter-state dialogue. It was emphasised that cooperation continues in both bilateral and multilateral formats. The parties provide mutual support for initiatives within international organisations, including the UN.
The Turkmen Ambassador held negotiations on the digital agenda
16.04.2026On 14 April, Muhammetgeldi Ayazov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, held a meeting with Deemah AlYahya, Secretary-General of the International Digital Cooperation Organisation. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the development of digital cooperation between Turkmenistan, the International Digital Cooperation Organisation and its member states. Deemah AlYahya outlined the organisation’s main areas of work. According to her, the priorities remain strengthening digital cooperation between Central Asia and participating countries, developing cross-border investment and coordinating approaches at the international level. Ambassador Muhammetgeldi Ayazov noted that Turkmenistan is placing increasing emphasis on the digital economy. In this regard, a new Concept and State Programme for 2026–2028 have been adopted.
The MFA of Turkmenistan hosted negotiations on the development of tourism
16.04.2026On 15 April, Myahri Byashimova, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan, held a meeting with Cordula Wohlmuther, Acting Regional Director for Europe at UNWTO. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The Turkmen side thanked the UNWTO delegation for participating in the ‘Turkmentravel – 2026’ exhibition and conference, which are taking place in Ashgabat from 14 to 16 April. The parties discussed ongoing cooperation and the implementation of previously reached agreements. The focus was on promoting Turkmenistan’s tourism potential, developing infrastructure and training personnel. The prospects for cooperation under the Framework Programme of Cooperation between Turkmenistan and the UN for 2026–2030 were also discussed. The Turkmen side supported the declaration of 2027 as the International Year of Sustainable and Resilient Tourism and the launch of the corresponding roadmap. Priorities identified included digitalisation, attracting investment, job creation and the preservation of cultural and natural heritage. Practical matters were also discussed, including the holding of a specialised UN-Tourism training session for students and professionals on 15 April. Turkmenistan confirmed its readiness to step up its participation in UN-Tourism structures and to take part in the 72nd session of the organisation’s European Regional Commission.
Turkmenistan and Tatarstan discussed ways to strengthen cooperation
16.04.2026On 15 April, negotiations were held at the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan between Ahmet Gurbanov, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan, and Vasily Shaikhraziev, Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Tatarstan, Russian Federation. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed current cooperation and its prospects, including in the cultural and humanitarian sphere. Separate attention was given to preparations for the final stage of the ‘Tatar Kyzy’ International Competition, which will take place in Turkmenistan in October 2026. It was noted that the contest contributes to the preservation of national traditions and the development of intercultural dialogue. The Turkmen side expressed its readiness to ensure a high standard of organisation for the event. Following the meeting, the intention to continue interaction and develop cooperation was confirmed.
A Chinese delegation visited the Medical University of Turkmenistan
16.04.2026A meeting was held at the Myrat Garryev State Medical University of Turkmenistan with a delegation from Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, with Rector Tang Zhishu as Head of the delegation. This was reported by TDH. The parties discussed current cooperation in the healthcare sector and prospects for its expansion. An increase in cooperation in medicine and education was noted. Following the negotiations, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed on the establishment of the Turkmen-Chinese Centre for Traditional Chinese Medicine. As part of the visit, a ‘Centre for Alternative Medicine’ was opened at the university. The participants familiarised themselves with its facilities and areas of work. The delegation was shown an exhibition on the national healthcare system, including information on medicinal plants and medical infrastructure. Tang Zhishu, Rector of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, was awarded the title of Honorary Professor of the Myrat Garryev State Medical University of Turkmenistan. The parties confirmed their readiness to further develop cooperation in the fields of medicine and staff training.
A delegation from the People's Republic of China visited the Charitable Foundation in Arkadag
16.04.2026On 15 April, a delegation from Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, led by Rector Tang Zhishu, visited the headquarters of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship in the city of Arkadag as part of their visit to Turkmenistan. This was reported by the website AsmanNews. A meeting was held with Oguljahan Atabayeva, Vice-President of the Fund for Medical Activities. Issues relating to the development of cooperation in the field of healthcare, including paediatrics and rehabilitation, were discussed. The significance of the memorandum signed between the Myrat Garryev State Medical University of Turkmenistan and Beijing University of Chinese Medicine on the establishment of the Turkmen-Chinese Centre for Traditional Chinese Medicine was noted. The parties emphasised the potential for expanding cooperation in the humanitarian sphere and healthcare. Special mention was made of the activities of the Charitable Foundation aimed at the treatment and support of children. The delegation visited the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Children’s Health and Rehabilitation Centre, where they familiarised themselves with the medical services and equipment. The use of comprehensive treatment methods, including modern technologies and therapeutic physical education, was highlighted. The guests also visited the State Equestrian Circus named after Gorogly, where they were introduced to the possibilities of hippotherapy and the activities of the ‘Galkynysh’ National Equestrian Games Group. Following the visit, the parties expressed their readiness to further develop cooperation and implement the agreements reached.
Serdar Berdimuhamedov received the Italian Ambassador
16.04.2026On 15 April, the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, received Martin Brook, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Italian Republic to Turkmenistan, who presented his credentials to the Head of State. This was reported by TDH. The Ambassador conveyed greetings from the President of Italy, Sergio Mattarella. The Head of State congratulated the diplomat on his appointment and reaffirmed his interest in developing cooperation. The parties noted the importance of cooperation with European Union member states, including Italy. They emphasised cooperation within the framework of the UN, the EU and the OSCE, as well as the significance of the ‘Central Asia–Italy’ format. Prospects for partnership in the trade, economic, energy, transport, logistics and agricultural sectors were discussed. Cooperation with the Italian company ENI, which is implementing projects in Turkmenistan, was noted. The transport and logistics sector was identified as a priority, including the development of the ‘North–South’ and ‘East–West’ international corridors. Issues of cooperation in education, science and culture were also discussed, including collaboration in archaeology and interest in learning the Italian language. Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their readiness to further strengthen bilateral ties.
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