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Turkmenistan and China discussed expanding cooperation in the field of education
19.04.2026A meeting was held at the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan between Deputy Minister of Education Azat Atayev and a delegation from the Chinese Ministry of Education, comprising representatives from relevant departments and the Centre for Language Cooperation. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of bilateral cooperation, noting its development on the basis of previously reached agreements, including the ‘Central Asia–China’ format. China expressed its readiness to expand cooperation: to develop language training, provide scholarships, and establish joint laboratories and educational platforms within the framework of the ‘Belt and Road’ initiative. Particular attention was paid to language cooperation – Chinese is already being taught in schools and universities in Turkmenistan, and work by teachers from the PRC continues. The Turkmen side advocated for deeper cooperation, including increasing the number of teachers, introducing the ‘language + profession’ format, developing the HSK exam, and the possible opening of a specialised centre. Interest was also expressed in China’s experience of administering the Gaokao exam. New areas were also discussed – artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and vocational education. Turkmenistan proposed implementing joint projects, including scientific research and the establishment of laboratories, with a focus on priority areas – from AI to ‘green’ energy. Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their intention to strengthen cooperation and continue consultations. The meeting took place in a constructive atmosphere.
Magtymguly TSU discussed a partnership with Xinjiang Normal University
19.04.2026A meeting was held at the Magtymguly Turkmen State University (TSU) between the university’s management and students and representatives of Xinjiang Normal University in the People’s Republic of China. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. During the negotiations, the parties discussed the current state of cooperation between the two universities, as well as possible avenues for its development in the field of education. Particular attention was paid to the modernisation of educational processes and the adoption of international best practice. It should be noted that from 15 to 16 April, Magtymguly Turkmen State University hosted the online International Scientific and Practical Conference ‘Modern scientific research in the study of historical and cultural heritage: sustainable development of peoples and cultures’.
Turkmenistan and the Inter-Parliamentary Union discussed initiatives in the field of international law
19.04.2026On 17 April in Istanbul, as part of the 152nd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, a meeting took place between a representative of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan and Zeina Hilal, the Inter-Parliamentary Union’s Programme Director for Gender Cooperation and Youth Participation. This was reported by the press service of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed expanding Turkmenistan’s cooperation with international organisations, including the Inter-Parliamentary Union, as part of the country’s foreign policy. Particular attention was paid to the initiative to declare 2028 the ‘Year of International Law’ and the planned international events to mark the occasion. The IPU representative noted the importance of Turkmenistan’s initiatives for strengthening peace, stability and global development, and also emphasised the significance of developing cooperation between women leaders of parliaments from different countries.
Turkmenistan shared its experience of youth policy at a forum in Istanbul
19.04.2026On 16 April, a representative of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan took part in the Youth Forum held as part of the 152nd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union in Istanbul. This was reported by the press service of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan. In his speech, it was noted that the country is creating extensive opportunities for young people and supports their participation in law-making. The role of young parliamentarians and the significance of initiatives put forward at international forums in the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone in 2025 were also highlighted. Forum participants spoke highly of Turkmenistan’s state youth policy, the active involvement of young MPs and the dialogue with young people. Particular mention was made of the importance of support for initiatives from international organisations, including funding, access to education and technology, as well as youth participation in environmental and climate adaptation issues.
The State Concern ‘Türkmengaz’ and ‘QazaqGaz’ have identified new areas for cooperation
19.04.2026Maksat Babayev, Chairman of the State Concern ‘Türkmengaz’, held negotiations in Ashgabat with Alibek Zhamauov, Chairman of the Board of ‘QazaqGaz’. This was reported by the online publication ‘Business Turkmenistan’. The parties discussed the current state of cooperation in the gas sector and prospects for its expansion. Opportunities for implementing new joint projects were also explored. Furthermore, as part of the conference ‘Turkmenistan – People’s Republic of China: 20 Years of Strategic Partnership in the Gas Sector’, A. Zhamauov met with the leadership of CNPC and SOCAR. Key issues regarding cooperation in the sector were discussed.
Turkmenistan and China discussed expanding trade cooperation
19.04.2026On 16 April 2026 in Ashgabat, Mergen Gurdov, Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan, held negotiations with a delegation led by Ren Hongbin, Head of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade. This was reported by the press service of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan. The meeting took place as part of the scientific and practical conference and exhibition ‘Turkmenistan – People’s Republic of China: 20 Years of Strategic Partnership in the Gas Sector’. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of trade and economic cooperation. The role of international exhibitions in expanding business contacts was also addressed. Issues relating to increasing trade turnover, developing investment cooperation and supporting entrepreneurship were examined. Following the negotiations, a commitment to further cooperation was confirmed.
Rashid Meredov presented Turkmenistan’s position at ADF-2026
19.04.2026On 17–18 April, a delegation from Turkmenistan led by Rashid Meredov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Foreign Affairs Minister, took part in the Fifth Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF-2026). This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The forum was held in Antalya under the motto ‘Mapping Tomorrow, Managing Uncertainties’. Participants discussed issues of international cooperation, sustainable development, security and economic ties. Speaking at the session on Central Asia, Rashid Meredov presented Turkmenistan’s position on strengthening regional stability and developing infrastructure. Projects in the fields of energy, international transport corridors and Eurasian cooperation were highlighted. It was emphasised that stability and security remain key conditions for the region’s development. In this regard, the role of the Consultative Meetings of the Heads of State of Central Asia, with the participation of Azerbaijan, was noted as a new format for political interaction. Particular attention was paid to energy strategy. Issues of supply diversification were discussed, including the TAPI gas pipeline project and the expansion of electricity exports. It was noted that Turkmenistan’s approach takes into account the interests of producers, transit countries and consumers. Initiatives within the UN framework on energy security were touched upon. It was noted that the UN General Assembly had adopted three resolutions on energy sustainability at the initiative of Turkmenistan. Their implementation is being carried out at the national level, including through existing export projects. Issues relating to the development of the transport and logistics sector were also discussed. The importance of Central Asia as a key hub on the ‘East–West’ and ‘North–South’ routes was noted. The need for coordination of efforts by countries in the region to ensure the effective operation of transport corridors between Asia and Europe was emphasised.
The President of Turkmenistan has signed a document establishing ‘Galkynyşgaz’
19.04.2026The President of Turkmenistan has signed a Resolution aimed at developing the oil and gas sector and developing the fourth phase of the ‘Galkynyş’ gas field. This was reported by AsmanNews. According to the document, the State Concern ‘Türkmengaz’ has been tasked with establishing the state-owned enterprise ‘Galkynyşgaz’ on a self-financing basis. The development and approval of the new enterprise’s articles of association are also provided for.
The Turkmen delegation took part in a meeting of the CIS Council of Foreign Ministers
18.04.2026On 17 April 2026, the regular meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) took place in Moscow. The Turkmen delegation was led by Ahmet Gurbanov, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The meeting was attended by the heads of the foreign ministries of Azerbaijan, Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, as well as representatives of the CIS Executive Committee. The parties discussed topical issues on the international and regional agenda, the current state and prospects of cooperation within the CIS, including in connection with the 35th anniversary of the organisation. The discussions took place in both a restricted and an expanded format. Ahmet Gurbanov outlined Turkmenistan’s priorities and noted the constructive nature of cooperation within the CIS framework, emphasising the potential for expanding joint efforts. Particular attention was paid to cooperation between the foreign ministries of the CIS countries. The results of the implementation of the Plan for Multilevel Inter-Ministerial Consultations for 2025 and the Programme for Strengthening Partnership between the Foreign Ministries of the CIS States were reviewed. Following the meeting, decisions were adopted aimed at strengthening foreign policy coordination and expanding cooperation in the political, trade and economic, and cultural and humanitarian spheres. The next meeting of the CIS Council of Foreign Ministers is scheduled for October 2026 in Turkmenistan.
Turkmenistan and the ILO are strengthening inter-agency coordination of projects
18.04.2026On 18 April 2026, a meeting took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan between Deputy Foreign Minister Myahri Byashimova and a delegation from the International Labour Organisation (ILO) led by Miranda Fajerman. Representatives of relevant ministries and agencies of Turkmenistan also took part in the meeting. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. During the meeting, practical activities within the framework of the ILO delegation’s visit were discussed, including the holding of joint round-table discussions in the country’s regions with the participation of state bodies and social partners. The parties noted the consistent nature of Turkmenistan’s cooperation with the ILO, including work to improve the regulatory framework and implement international labour standards. The importance of inter-agency coordination in the implementation of joint initiatives was emphasised. The Roadmap for Cooperation for 2026 was reviewed, identified as the main tool for achieving concrete results. The outcomes of previously held events were noted, including the presentation of the results of the 2025 survey and the receipt of feedback from the field. The need to increase media coverage of Turkmenistan’s cooperation with the ILO on international platforms was also emphasised. Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their readiness to continue the dialogue and develop cooperation.
Minnikhanov spoke about negotiations with Turkmenistan at ‘KazanForum-2026’
18.04.2026Preparations for the International Economic Forum ‘Russia – Islamic World: KazanForum-2026’ are drawing to a close in Kazan. The Head of Tatarstan, Rustam Minnikhanov, presented the results of these preparations at a meeting of the organising committee chaired by Russian Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin, reports Turkmenportal. Minnikhanov announced that three intergovernmental commissions with Indonesia, Nigeria and Mali will take place as part of the forum. Tatarstan is also ready to host meetings of the co-chairs of intergovernmental commissions with Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan and Palestine, as well as a working group meeting with Malaysia. The key themes of ‘KazanForum-2026’ will be Islamic finance, investment, the halal industry, culture, sport and the role of women in modern society. Kazan’s status as the cultural capital of the Islamic world lends particular significance to the forum. The programme includes a congress of culture ministers from the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). According to Minnikhanov, OIC member states account for around half of Tatarstan’s foreign trade turnover. Anton Kobyakov, an adviser to the Russian President, announced that from 10 to 20 May, 24-hour consular offices for foreign participants will be operating at Moscow and Kazan airports. The forum will take place from 12 to 17 May at venues in Kazan. The main business programme, comprising over 120 events, will be held on 14–15 May at the ‘Kazan Expo’ International Exhibition Centre. Representatives from over 60 countries and around 20 regions of Russia are expected to attend. According to the organisers, Turkmenistan will present a national pavilion as part of the forum’s exhibition programme, showcasing investment projects and areas of bilateral cooperation.
Turkmenistan took part in the 59th session of the UN Commission on Population and Development
18.04.2026A delegation from Turkmenistan took part in the 59th session of the UN Commission on Population and Development, which was held at the UN headquarters in New York. This was reported by IIC of Turkmenistan. The UN Commission on Population and Development is responsible for monitoring the implementation of the Programme of Action of the International Conference on Population and Development. It examines demographic trends and their impact on the socio-economic development of countries, and formulates recommendations for member states. During the session, issues relating to the quality of life of the population, access to education and healthcare, and the effective management of resources against the backdrop of global demographic changes were discussed. Particular emphasis was placed on incorporating the demographic agenda into sustainable development strategies. Turkmenistan’s participation in the Commission’s work facilitates the exchange of experience in the areas of family support, maternal and child health, and the promotion of equal opportunities. The development of cooperation with international organisations, including the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), was also noted. The outcomes of the session will be taken into account when formulating long-term national strategies within the framework of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
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