News
Austrian expert gave a lecture to future diplomats in Ashgabat
13.03.2026Martin Sajdik, representative of the Austrian Institute for European Diplomacy and Security Policy, paid a working visit to Ashgabat. The main purpose of the trip was to prepare a cooperation agreement between this organisation and the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. During his visit, the Diplomat visited the State Museum of the State Cultural Centre of Turkmenistan, the Turkmen Carpet Museum, the ‘Köne Nusaý’ Historical and Cultural Centre, and the Ahal-Teke Equestrian Sports Complex. The central event of the programme was a meeting with teachers and students of the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The Rector of the university, Gulshat Yusupova, gave an introductory speech about the purpose of the guest's visit. The meeting took the form of a lecture followed by a question-and-answer session in English. Martin Sajdik also met with staff from the Institute's Scientific Centre for Strategic Studies. The meeting was attended by the Head of the centre, Ambassador Shiri Shiriyev, as well as specialists B. Amansaryev and O. Annabayev. The parties discussed current issues of international and regional politics. During the conversation, the Diplomat noted that qualities such as objectivity, impartiality, empathy and patience are important for work in the field of international conflict resolution. Following the meetings, the parties expressed interest in developing cooperation between the Austrian Institute for European Diplomacy and Security Policy and the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan.
Turkmenistan's chemical industry is increasing its production capacity
13.03.2026Turkmenistan continues to develop its chemical industry. Projects are being implemented in the sector to modernise production facilities, build new enterprises and expand output, according to TDH. The State Concern ‘Türkmenhimiýa’ is working to increase production capacity and introduce modern technologies. The development of the industry is being carried out within the framework of the programme ‘Era of the Revival of a New Epoch of a Powerful State: National Programme for the Socio-Economic Development of Turkmenistan for 2022–2052’ and other state programmes. One of the priority areas remains the production of mineral fertilisers. The country has increased its production of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium fertilisers, which makes it possible to meet the needs of agriculture and expand export supplies. The Turkmenabat Chemical Plant named after S.A. Niyazov plays an important role in the industry. The enterprise produces phosphorus fertilisers, including ammonium superphosphate, as well as technical sulphuric acid. Part of the production is exported. The plant is regularly modernised. In 2016, a new sulphuric acid production facility was commissioned here. The enterprise is also introducing digital process control systems to monitor product quality and ensure compliance with ISO 9001 international standards. In October 2025, the foundation for a new mineral fertiliser production complex was laid on the plant's territory. The project envisages the production of 350,000 tonnes of superphosphate and 100,000 tonnes of ammonium sulphate per year. The enterprise plans to apply ‘Industry 4.0’ technologies, including industrial internet and data analysis systems. Particular attention is paid to environmental safety. Closed water circulation systems, modern filters and purification technologies are being introduced at the enterprises. This reduces the impact on the environment and ensures the rational use of natural resources. The enterprise also cooperates with scientific institutions in the country. Together with the Academy of Sciences of Turkmenistan, research is being conducted on the creation of new types of fertilisers aimed at increasing crop yields and preserving soil fertility. In the near future, the plant plans to establish the production of liquid fertilisers, which are in demand in greenhouse farming. The development of the chemical industry remains one of the areas of diversification of the country's economy and expansion of industrial production.
Turkmenistan and Japan discussed cooperation in equestrian sports
13.03.2026On 12 March, the Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Japan, A. Bayramov, met with the leadership of the Japan Equestrian Federation and the Tokyo Equestrian Complex, Hiroshi Ito and Yoshikazu Matsuda, in Tokyo. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The meeting was also attended by Takuma Miyaji, a member of the Japanese-Turkmen Inter-Parliamentary Friendship Group and a member of the House of Representatives of the Japanese Parliament; Michiko Aoe, Director General of the Japanese Economic Society ‘Ahal-Teke Affinity Co. LTD,’ a member of the International Ahal-Teke Horse Breeding Association and Honored Horse Breeder of Turkmenistan; and Japanese horse breeders. The parties discussed events held in Turkmenistan and abroad as part of the year ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’ and state policy in the field of horse breeding. Issues related to the development of cooperation with the Japan Equestrian Federation were also considered. After the meeting, the participants visited the monument to the Ahal-Teke horse, erected on the territory of the Tokyo Equestrian Complex.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan held a meeting with the Regional Director of the ILO
13.03.2026On 12 March, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan M. Byashimova held a meeting with Peter Van Rooij, Regional Director of the International Labour Organisation for Europe and Central Asia. This was reported by the press service of the country's foreign ministry. The Turkmen side congratulated Peter Van Rooij on his appointment and expressed its readiness to further develop cooperation with the International Labour Organisation. The interlocutors noted the steady development of Turkmenistan's interaction with the ILO within the framework of the country's cooperation with the UN system. It was emphasised that joint work is being carried out on the basis of roadmaps and ongoing projects. During the meeting, they discussed expanding the institutional presence of UN agencies in Turkmenistan and implementing projects aimed at promoting decent work principles and developing social dialogue. Special attention was paid to implementing the Roadmap for Cooperation between Turkmenistan and the ILO for 2026. It was noted that Turkmenistan regularly submits reports on ILO conventions and participates in the work of the International Labour Conference. The next session of the conference will take place in June in Geneva. Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their interest in further developing the partnership.
Turkmenistan and ILO outline areas of cooperation for 2026
13.03.2026On 12 March, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan hosted a round table with representatives of the International Labour Organisation (ILO). They discussed cooperation in the areas of labour, social protection and sustainable development, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The event was attended by representatives of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan, relevant ministries and departments, international organisations and social partners. The participants considered the priority areas of cooperation between Turkmenistan and the ILO. They discussed improving labour legislation, promoting the principles of decent work and implementing joint programmes in the social sphere. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan M. Byashimova noted the importance of cooperation with the ILO. According to her, cooperation with the organization contributes to the introduction of international experience and the development of the national labor relations system. Special attention was paid to the results of joint work in 2025 and the discussion of priority areas of cooperation for 2026. The participants also stressed the importance of further exchange of experience and expansion of partnership initiatives.
Turkmenistan will be represented at the 33rd International Book Fair in Minsk
13.03.2026Turkmenistan will be represented at the 33rd International Book Fair, which will be held from 17 to 22 March in Minsk. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. This year, about 500 exhibitors from 23 countries will take part. On 20 March, Turkmenistan Day will be held on the central stage as part of the CIS thematic days, which will be held jointly with Uzbekistan Day. Each country will be provided with a separate platform for presenting national literature and new releases. The central exhibition is dedicated to literary and publishing projects of the CIS countries and cultural interaction between the Commonwealth states. The forum's programme includes an international symposium entitled ‘The Writer and Time’, meetings between authors and readers, presentations of new publications, autograph sessions and discussions between publishers. Separate areas will be dedicated to children's literature, educational projects and digital initiatives in book publishing.
Turkmenistan and China discuss the role of women in society and innovation
13.03.2026The ‘Archabil’ Hotel in Ashgabat hosted a round table discussion entitled ‘Turkmenistan–China: Women and Society,’ organised by the Chinese Embassy and dedicated to the role of women in the economies and cultures of both countries. This was reported by the news website Asmannews. Zhong Hua, Chargé d'Affaires, presented statistics on the modern role of women in China: the average life expectancy is 80 years, 46% of scientific and technical personnel are women, and more than half of Internet entrepreneurs are female. Particular attention was paid to last year's visit to China by a Turkmen delegation led by Oguljahan Atabayeva, which strengthened cooperation in protecting children's rights and supporting motherhood. China plans to train 50,000 women and launch 1,000 local social projects over the next five years. Oguljennet Berdiliyeva, Chairwoman of the Women's Union of Turkmenistan, gave a response speech, and the subsequent dinner turned into an exchange of success stories. The participants discussed a wide range of topics, from preserving national embroidery to achievements in aviation. Turkmen women scientists, teachers and businesswomen demonstrated a harmonious combination of innovation and national values.
Turkmenistan and Australia discussed prospects for bilateral relations
13.03.2026On 12 March, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Ahmet Gurbanov held a meeting with Australian Ambassador to Turkmenistan (resident in Moscow) John William Geering. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the current state and prospects for the development of bilateral cooperation between Turkmenistan and Australia. Particular attention was paid to strengthening political and diplomatic cooperation, as well as expanding partnership in the trade, economic, cultural and humanitarian fields. During the conversation, the diplomats exchanged views on a number of topical international and regional issues. In particular, the situation in the Middle East was discussed. The importance of consolidating international efforts to ensure peace, security and stability in the region was emphasised. Ambassador John William Geering, in turn, expressed his gratitude to the Turkmen side for its assistance in organising the transit of Australian citizens travelling from Iran. Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their interest in continuing constructive dialogue and further strengthening friendly relations between Turkmenistan and Australia.
Key priorities for Turkmenistan's chairmanship of the CIS have been defined
13.03.2026The official website of the CIS Executive Committee has published the Concept of Turkmenistan's Chairmanship of the CIS for 2026 and the plan for its implementation, according to the news website Asmannews. The document defines five key priorities: strengthening peace and security, developing the economy and transport connectivity, digitalisation, the environmental agenda and humanitarian cooperation. In the political sphere, the emphasis is on maintaining regional stability and expanding diplomatic dialogue between the CIS countries. The economic section provides for the development of the ‘North-South’ and ‘East-West’ transport corridors, deepening energy cooperation, and stimulating trade and investment. The environmental section includes joint projects in the field of renewable energy and adaptation to climate change. The plan for 2026 provides for 25 events, seven of which will take place in Turkmenistan. These include meetings of the CIS Council of Heads of Government in May, the Economic Council in September, the Council of Foreign Ministers and the CIS Council of Heads of State on 9 October in Awaza, as well as a meeting of the Council for Cultural Cooperation in Ashgabat.
Turkmenistan discusses measures to protect agricultural landscapes from drought
13.03.2026An expert meeting on the adaptation of agro-ecological landscapes to arid conditions was held in Ashgabat with the support of the national branch of the Regional Environmental Centre for Central Asia (CAREC). This was reported by the IIC. Scientists from the National Institute of Deserts, specialists from the International Scientific and Technological Park of the Academy of Sciences, ecologists and representatives of international organisations took part in the discussion. The main focus was on finding practical solutions to reduce damage to agriculture and the environment caused by lack of rainfall. International experts, including representatives of the World Bank and the Water Institute, noted the transboundary nature of climate risks in the region. Given the dependence of economies on the water resources of large rivers such as the Amu Darya, it is important to plan investments in vulnerable sectors accurately and develop early warning systems based on satellite data. The need for long-term planning, taking into account rising average temperatures and changes in the hydrological regime, was discussed separately. The meeting participants proposed measures to modernise agricultural production and water use: the introduction of digital solutions in the water sector, the development of greenhouse vegetable growing and the breeding of drought-resistant crop varieties. The combination of traditional methods of folk hydrotechnics, including ‘underground irrigation,’ with the modernisation of water infrastructure was also considered. Following the meeting, proposals were prepared for further cross-sectoral cooperation within the framework of regional programmes. Experts emphasised that combining national efforts with international initiatives is an important condition for fulfilling the country's climate commitments and ensuring the sustainable development of Turkmenistan's agro-industrial complex.
Turkmenistan and China discuss the role of women in society and innovation
12.03.2026The ‘Archabil’ Hotel in Ashgabat hosted a round table discussion entitled ‘Turkmenistan–China: Women and Society,’ organised by the Chinese Embassy and dedicated to the role of women in the economies and cultures of both countries. This was reported by the news website Asmannews. Zhong Hua, Chargé d'Affaires, presented statistics on the modern role of women in China: the average life expectancy is 80 years, 46% of scientific and technical personnel are women, and more than half of Internet entrepreneurs are female. Particular attention was paid to last year's visit to China by a Turkmen delegation led by Oguljahan Atabayeva, which strengthened cooperation in protecting children's rights and supporting motherhood. China plans to train 50,000 women and launch 1,000 local social projects over the next five years. Oguljennet Berdiliyeva, Chairwoman of the Women's Union of Turkmenistan, gave a response speech, and the subsequent dinner turned into an exchange of success stories. The participants discussed a wide range of topics, from preserving national embroidery to achievements in aviation. Turkmen women scientists, teachers and businesswomen demonstrated a harmonious combination of innovation and national values.
Turkmenistan and Australia discussed prospects for bilateral relations
12.03.2026On 12 March, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Ahmet Gurbanov held a meeting with Australian Ambassador to Turkmenistan (resident in Moscow) John William Geering. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the current state and prospects for the development of bilateral cooperation between Turkmenistan and Australia. Particular attention was paid to strengthening political and diplomatic cooperation, as well as expanding partnership in the trade, economic, cultural and humanitarian fields. During the conversation, the diplomats exchanged views on a number of topical international and regional issues. In particular, the situation in the Middle East was discussed. The importance of consolidating international efforts to ensure peace, security and stability in the region was emphasised. Ambassador John William Geering, in turn, expressed his gratitude to the Turkmen side for its assistance in organising the transit of Australian citizens travelling from Iran. Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their interest in continuing constructive dialogue and further strengthening friendly relations between Turkmenistan and Australia.
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