Policy
Turkmenistan is strengthening its cooperation with the EU on key security issues
17.07.2026On 16 July, Ahmet Gurbanov, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan, took part in the 13th meeting of the ‘European Union–Central Asia’ High-Level Dialogue on Political and Security Issues in Brussels. This was reported by the press office of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The participants discussed regional and international security, strengthening resilience, border management, countering modern threats, and developing connectivity and multilateral cooperation. Ahmet Gurbanov highlighted the importance of the ‘European Union–Central Asia’ format for pooling the potential of the countries in the region and the EU with a view to sustainable development and strengthening regional security. In his view, long-term security must be based on political and diplomatic mechanisms, confidence-building, socio-economic development, respect for international law and multilateral diplomacy, with the United Nations playing a central role. Turkmenistan reaffirmed its support for the further development of mechanisms for cooperation with the European Union, including the High-Level Political and Security Dialogue, meetings of special representatives and EU practical programmes in the field of security. A meeting also took place in Brussels between Ahmet Gurbanov and Gilles Bertrand, the European Union’s Special Envoy for Afghanistan and Head of the Afghanistan and Pakistan Division at the European External Action Service. The parties discussed cooperation on Afghanistan, including humanitarian aid, the implementation of transport and energy projects, and collaboration within the framework of the regional CADAP and BOMCA programmes. Particular attention was paid to the coordination of international efforts, with the United Nations playing a central role. In addition, Ahmet Gurbanov met with Olof Skoog, Deputy Secretary-General for Political Affairs at the European External Action Service. The parties discussed the development of transport connectivity, the potential of the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor and the European Union’s ‘Global Gateway’ initiative. Other areas of cooperation mentioned included energy, improving energy efficiency, the development of renewable energy sources, the introduction of modern technologies and the reduction of methane emissions. Education, professional training and academic exchanges were also discussed.
Turkmenistan discusses the awarding of honours to citizens for their contribution to the country’s development
17.07.2026At a meeting of the Presidium of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, issues relating to the conferral of state awards and honorary titles upon citizens who have made a significant contribution to the country’s development were considered. This was reported by the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, instructed that this work be organised in a coordinated manner in accordance with the instructions of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov. Hero Arkadag emphasised that citizens who have achieved significant professional success during the years of independence and who are held in high regard by society should be nominated for these honours. The heads of the relevant agencies have been instructed to ensure objectivity and transparency in the nomination process, as well as the proper preparation of documentation.
Hero Arkadag emphasised the importance of coordinated efforts by the authorities
17.07.2026At a meeting of the Presidium of the Halk Maslahaty, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, emphasised the importance of coordinating the work of the Halk Maslahaty with the members of the Mejlis and the country’s Government. This was reported by the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. Hero Arkadag noted the need to respond promptly to contemporary challenges and to prepare constructive proposals on issues of national development in a timely manner. Particular attention was paid to parliamentary diplomacy. The Mejlis of Turkmenistan, in conjunction with ministries, departments, political parties and civil society organisations, has been tasked with making more active use of its capabilities to provide extensive coverage of the state’s peaceful and humane domestic and foreign policies. This work takes on particular significance in the run-up to the 35th anniversary of our Motherland’s sacred independence and in a year marked by the motto ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’.
Preparations have begun in Turkmenistan for the next session of Halk Maslahaty
17.07.2026The National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, has announced the start of preparations for the next session of the Halk Maslahaty. He made this statement at a meeting of the Presidium of the Halk Maslahaty, according to the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. During his address, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov noted that the implementation of state programmes for socio-economic development and the further democratisation of society remain priority tasks. To ensure the country’s long-term development, it is necessary to draw up new proposals for continuing reforms in all spheres. The main aim of the work being carried out is to improve citizens’ well-being and create comfortable living conditions for the population. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov expressed his confidence that the relevant officials would contribute to the successful organisation and conduct of the forthcoming socio-political event.
The Ambassador of Turkmenistan discussed cooperation with the President of JICA
17.07.2026On 16 July, A. Bayramov, Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Japan, met with Akihiko Tanaka, President of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). This was reported by the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The parties discussed the current state and future prospects of cooperation between Turkmenistan and JICA. The focus was on the implementation of ongoing technical cooperation projects, the training and professional development of Turkmen specialists, and collaboration with the University of Tsukuba in the field of training personnel for the hydrogen energy sector. In addition, the participants reviewed the promotion of the ‘One Village, One Product’ initiative and opportunities to expand cooperation in the fields of digitalisation, healthcare, sustainable development, human capital, artificial intelligence, digital transformation, economic, industrial and technological exchange, culture and tourism. During the meeting, the role of Turkmenistan’s leadership in strengthening bilateral relations was also highlighted, as was the significance of the negotiations held by the President of Turkmenistan with Emperor Naruhito of Japan and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, which took place in Tokyo in April and December 2025.
A meeting with the Palestinian Ambassador took place at the MFA of Turkmenistan
17.07.2026On 16 July, a meeting took place at the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan between the Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan, Myahri Byashimova, and the Ambassador of the State of Palestine to Turkmenistan, Rana Abu Hijleh. This was reported by the press office of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the development of Turkmen-Palestinian cooperation, including the strengthening of political dialogue and the expansion of cooperation between the foreign ministries of the two countries. The Palestinian side provided information on the planned parliamentary elections in 2026 and the presidential elections in 2027. There was also an exchange of views on the organisation of joint cultural and humanitarian events. The Ambassador expressed her gratitude to the leadership of Turkmenistan for their support of the activities of the Embassy of the State of Palestine in Turkmenistan and reaffirmed her interest in the further development of bilateral relations.
Serdar Berdimuhamedov addressed the Turkmen-Georgian Forum
17.07.2026On 16 July, the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, addressed the Turkmen-Georgian Business Forum, where he outlined the key areas for the development of trade, economic and investment cooperation between the two countries. This was reported by the online news site AsmanNews. The Head of State noted that, in early 2026, an Investment Programme was approved in Turkmenistan, aimed at maintaining gross domestic product growth at 6.3 per cent. The President of Turkmenistan identified the development of the fuel and energy sector as one of the priority areas. Turkmenistan has commenced the fourth phase of industrial development of the ‘Galkynyş’ gas field, whilst also continuing to develop hydrocarbon resources in the Caspian Sea and to build partnerships with foreign oil and gas companies. New hydrocarbon processing facilities have been commissioned in the country. Liquid petroleum products are exported to countries in Asia and Europe. The gas chemical industry is also developing, and the production of mineral fertilisers, polymers and other chemical products is expanding. Serdar Berdimuhamedov highlighted the development of the private sector and the expansion of production of construction, metal, plastic, cable and electrical engineering products. The output of finished textile products exceeds 130,000 tonnes per year, around 80 per cent of which is exported. Agriculture is also increasing its export potential. Turkmenistan is one of the major suppliers of environmentally friendly food products. Particular attention was paid to the development of transport, logistics, communications, infrastructure and the use of maritime terminals. The President announced that Turkmenistan is engaged in negotiations to establish a cargo terminal on Georgia’s Black Sea coast. The Head of State noted Turkmenistan’s interest in Georgia’s experience in the fields of tourism and services, and emphasised the need to hold regular business forums in both countries.
The President of Turkmenistan’s visit to Georgia strengthens bilateral ties
17.07.2026On 16 July, the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, arrived in Georgia on a state visit. A ceremony was held at Shota Rustaveli International Airport in Tbilisi to officially welcome the Head of Turkmenistan, who was received by the President of Georgia, Mikheil Kavelashvili. This was reported by the news agency TDH. Following the playing of the national anthems of both countries, negotiations took place between the Presidents. The parties discussed the development of bilateral relations, inter-parliamentary dialogue, trade and economic cooperation, transport, logistics, communications and port infrastructure. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov noted the constructive cooperation between Turkmenistan and Georgia within international organisations, particularly the UN, and expressed his gratitude to the Georgian side for its support of Turkmenistan’s policy of permanent neutrality and its international initiatives. One of the key areas of the negotiation was the development of transport links. The President of Turkmenistan emphasised the importance of implementing the initiative to establish the ‘Caspian Sea–Black Sea’ transport corridor along the route ‘Turkmenistan–Azerbaijan–Georgia–Romania’. According to the Head of State, linking the Caspian and Black Sea regions creates opportunities for expanding trade, economic and investment cooperation. Particular attention was paid to cultural and humanitarian ties. Turkmenistan reaffirmed its readiness to expand cooperation with Georgia in the fields of culture, science, education and sport. A Turkmen-Georgian business forum was held as part of the visit to Tbilisi. Speaking at the event, the Prime Minister of Georgia, Irakli Kobakhidze, noted that there were extensive opportunities for developing cooperation between the private sector and the business communities of the two countries. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov emphasised that the forum was intended to promote the expansion of trade, economic and investment cooperation. The Head of State noted that, in early 2026, an Investment Programme had been approved in Turkmenistan, aimed at maintaining gross domestic product growth at 6.3 per cent. Serdar Berdimuhamedov spoke about the development of the fuel and energy and gas-chemical sectors, the exploitation of hydrocarbon resources in the Caspian Sea, and the expansion of production of mineral fertilisers, polymers and other chemical products. The President of Turkmenistan also noted the growing role of the private sector in the national economy. The country is developing the production of construction, metal, plastic, cable and electrical engineering products. The volume of finished textile production exceeds 130,000 tonnes per year, around 80 per cent of which is exported. Particular attention was paid to the development of agriculture, transport, logistics and infrastructure. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov announced that Turkmenistan is engaged in negotiations to establish a cargo terminal on Georgia’s Black Sea coast and called on the business communities of both countries to participate in the implementation of this project. Turkmenistan is also interested in Georgia’s experience in the fields of tourism and services. The President of Turkmenistan proposed holding business forums in both countries on a regular basis. As part of the event, an exhibition of products manufactured in Turkmenistan took place. At the ‘Expo Georgia’ venue, displays were presented by the ministries of the textile industry, industry and construction, energy, construction and architecture, health and the medical industry, as well as culture. Representatives of the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs of Turkmenistan also took part in the exhibition. The exhibition showcased the country’s industrial and export potential and served as a platform for developing business contacts and discussing new projects. Following the tour of the exhibition, an official reception was held in honour of the President of Turkmenistan on behalf of the Prime Minister of Georgia. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov’s state visit to Georgia is continuing.
The President of Turkmenistan has begun a state visit to Georgia
17.07.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, has arrived in Georgia, where he will undertake a two-day state visit. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal, citing the online newspaper ‘Turkmenistan’. At Tbilisi’s Shota Rustaveli Airport, the national flags of both countries were raised in honour of the Turkmen leader’s arrival, and a welcoming ceremony involving an honour guard was organised. The President of Turkmenistan was welcomed by representatives of the Georgian leadership and members of the official Turkmen delegation. As part of the visit, negotiations are scheduled between Serdar Berdimuhamedov and the Georgian leadership in both bilateral and expanded formats. In addition, the parties will hold a Turkmen-Georgian business forum and host an exhibition of products from Turkmen manufacturers. Diplomatic relations between Turkmenistan and Georgia were established on 16 July 1992. As the publication notes, the agreements reached at the highest level in recent years have helped to strengthen cooperation and have taken bilateral relations to a new stage of development. The current state visit by the President of Turkmenistan to Georgia is seen as a continuation of the political dialogue between the countries and an important step in the further development of bilateral relations.
Turkmenistan marks the 35th anniversary of its independence with achievements and prospects
16.07.2026In 2026, Turkmenistan will mark the 35th anniversary of its independence. Over this period, the country has developed its own model of political, socio-economic and cultural development, strengthened its international ties and implemented large-scale infrastructure projects. This was reported by the news agency TDH. Turkmenistan currently maintains diplomatic relations with 161 states and cooperates with 55 international and regional organisations. The country’s foreign policy is based on the principles of neutrality, equality, mutual respect and mutually beneficial cooperation. Turkmenistan’s permanent neutrality was recognised by the UN General Assembly in 1995, 2015 and 2025. This status shapes the country’s foreign policy strategy and its participation in international initiatives aimed at strengthening Peace and Trust. On 26 May 2026, Turkmenistan spoke on behalf of the Group of Friends of Neutrality at a high-level open debate in the UN Security Council. The principle of ‘The State is for the People!’ occupies an important place in state policy. The social orientation of development is reflected, in particular, in the structure of investment: in the first half of 2026, 54.9 per cent of funds utilised were allocated to social and cultural projects, whilst 45.1 per cent went towards industrial facilities. Since gaining independence, Turkmenistan has been implementing reforms aimed at diversifying the economy, developing the private sector, modernising industry and expanding export potential. Within the framework of national development programmes, particular attention is paid to industrialisation, digital transformation and the introduction of innovative technologies. The gas sector continues to play a significant role in the economy. The country is developing the gas chemical industry and the production of high value-added products. In Ovadandepe, there is a GTL plant producing Euro-5 standard ECO-93 petrol, liquefied petroleum gas and diesel fuel. Projects to expand natural gas processing are also underway. The electricity sector is also developing. Turkmenistan meets its domestic needs and exports electricity to neighbouring states. Alongside conventional energy sources, the country is developing renewable energy sources, including a hybrid solar-wind power station project in the Balkan velayat. In the chemical industry, plants have been established to produce nitrogen and phosphate fertilisers. These include the Garabogaz Urea-Ammonia Plant, the Mary and Tejen Urea Plants, and the Turkmenabat Chemical Plant. Projects to construct new production facilities are being implemented in collaboration with foreign partners. The textile industry remains one of the key sectors. The country is home to full-cycle enterprises, cotton-spinning and weaving plants, as well as garment, silk-processing and footwear factories. Turkmen textiles are exported to dozens of countries around the world. Since independence, agriculture has been transformed into a major agro-industrial complex. Reforms are being carried out in the area of management, and market mechanisms and resource-saving technologies are being introduced. The main objectives remain ensuring food security, developing processing and increasing export potential. Significant changes have taken place in the transport and communications sector. Major projects include the Turkmenbashi International Seaport, Ashgabat International Airport, the ‘Kazakhstan–Turkmenistan–Iran’ railway, the ‘Ashgabat–Turkmenabat’ motorway and the national telecommunications satellite ‘TürkmenÄlem 52°E’. The country continues to develop its transport infrastructure and strengthen its position as a Eurasian transit hub. Over the past 35 years, the appearance of Turkmenistan’s towns and villages has changed. New residential complexes, settlements and social facilities have been built in the regions. The city of Arkadag, established on the initiative of the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, holds a special place. In accordance with the ‘Concept for the Development of the City of Arkadag for 2024–2052’, the construction of the city’s second phase is underway, comprising more than 220 facilities built to digital standards. The historical and cultural monuments of Ancient Merv, Kunya-Urgench and the fortress of Ancient Nisa are included on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity also includes the epic art of ‘Gorogly’, the art of ‘kushtdepdi’, traditional Turkmen carpet-weaving and embroidery, the art of making and playing the dutar, as well as the art of breeding Ahal-Teke horses and the traditions of their adornment. Thus, over the 35 years of its independence, Turkmenistan has strengthened its international standing, developed its industry, transport and social infrastructure, expanded cultural cooperation and laid the foundations for further economic and social development.
Turkmenistan and Germany discussed the development of trade and economic cooperation
16.07.2026On 15 July 2026, a meeting took place at the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan between Myahri Byashimova, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan, and Michael Harms, Executive Director of the German Committee on Eastern European Economic Relations. This was reported by the press office of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The parties noted the high level of friendly relations between Turkmenistan and the Federal Republic of Germany and discussed the further development of cooperation. The main focus was on expanding trade and economic ties, including the introduction of German technologies into Turkmenistan’s industry, cooperation in the energy sector, the development of renewable energy sources and the efficient use of water resources. They also explored opportunities for joint infrastructure projects, taking into account Turkmenistan’s transit and logistics potential, and ways to strengthen cooperation with German financial institutions. Following the meeting, the parties reaffirmed their interest in further expanding bilateral dialogue.
A meeting of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan will take place in September
16.07.2026On 15 July 2026, the Presidium of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan adopted a Resolution to convene a session of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the online news site AsmanNews. According to the document, the session will take place on 23 September 2026 in Ashgabat at the ‘Maslahat köşgi’ Palace. The Halk Maslahaty of the velayats and the city of Ashgabat must submit to the Secretariat of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, by 1 September 2026, lists of public representatives to be included in the composition of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan from the velayats, the city of Ashgabat and the city of Arkadag. The Resolution was signed by Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan.
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