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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 China marked the 20th anniversary of their gas partnership
17.04.2026On 16 April, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan hosted the International Scientific and Practical Conference entitled ‘Turkmenistan – People’s Republic of China: 20 Years of Strategic Cooperation in the Gas Sector’. It was timed to mark the 20th anniversary of strategic cooperation between Turkmenistan and China in the gas sector, reports AsmanNews. The plenary session was devoted to energy partnership, investment and the development of the gas industry. The session was moderated by Rahymberdi Jepbarov, Chairman of the Board of the State Bank for Foreign Economic Affairs of Turkmenistan. Presentations were delivered by Guvanch Agajanov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan; Ding Xuexiang, First Vice-Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China; Maksat Babayev, Minister of State and Chairman of the State Concern ‘Türkmengaz’, and Dai Houliang, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the China National Petroleum Corporation. Participants noted the importance of energy dialogue for the region’s development. The conference programme included two thematic sessions. The first was devoted to Turkmenistan’s gas projects, resource base, investments and the development of export infrastructure. The second focused on issues of personnel training, educational programmes and scientific cooperation between specialists from both countries. The forum brought together representatives of government bodies and major energy companies. The outcomes of cooperation and the prospects for the development of the fuel and energy sector were discussed. As part of the event, a thematic exhibition was also opened, showcasing technologies and developments in the gas industry of Turkmenistan and China.
Ashgabat launches development of a children’s rights programme
17.04.2026In Turkmenistan, with technical support from UNICEF, work has begun on developing a National Programme on Child Protection and Justice for Children. This was reported by Turkmenportal. The first meeting of the Inter-ministerial Working Group took place on 15 April in Ashgabat. The group was established by the Government of Turkmenistan. Coordination is being led by the General Prosecutor’s Office. The group comprises representatives from 10 government departments. This is the first time such an initiative has been launched. The aim is to unite the efforts of different sectors and establish a unified approach to the protection of children’s rights and the justice system. The programme is based on the Constitution of Turkmenistan, national legislation on children’s rights and the National Action Plan for 2023–2028. It also takes into account the recommendations of the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child (2024) and the Universal Periodic Review (2023). The document is aligned with the UN Framework Programme for 2026–2030 and UNICEF’s country programme for Turkmenistan for the same period. UNICEF Representative in Turkmenistan Jalpa Ratna noted that the programme reflects the country’s commitment to children’s rights and will help build a more coordinated system for the protection of children and families.
A Turkmen university has announced the winners of the international macroeconomics competition
17.04.2026The Turkmen State Institute of Economics and Management has announced the results of the 4th Open International Online Olympiad in Macroeconomics, organised with the support of the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The Olympiad brought together students from universities in Turkmenistan and abroad. It was attended by 135 students from 36 higher education institutions across 10 countries, including Turkmenistan, Russia, Belarus, Armenia, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Germany and Pakistan. At the end of the competition, 62 participants won prizes: 17 students took first place, 27 took second place, and 18 took third place. Among them, students from Turkmenistan won 16 prizes — 3 first places, 7 second places and 6 third places. Sixteen students from Russian universities also became winners and prize-winners. Students from Kyrgyzstan secured eight prize-winning places, whilst participants from Uzbekistan secured six. Representatives from Kazakhstan, Armenia, Belarus, Pakistan and Germany also became prize-winners. The Turkmen State Institute of Economics and Management congratulated the winners and expressed its gratitude to the participants for their interest in the Olympiad, noting its contribution to the development of international educational cooperation and the expansion of opportunities for the scientific and creative potential of young people.
Turkmenistan and the UAE are developing cooperation in the field of horse breeding
16.04.2026On 14 April 2026, Bayram Bayramov, Turkmenistan’s Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates, met with Mohamed Ahmed Al Harbi, Director General of the Emirates Arabian Horse Society (EAHS). This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. The negotiations focused on developing cooperation in the field of horse breeding, taking into account that 2026 in Turkmenistan is being held under the motto ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’. The parties discussed the preparation of a Memorandum of Understanding between the relevant ministries as the basis for formalising the partnership. Issues of technical cooperation were considered, including the exchange of experience in the field of digital pedigree records and veterinary protocols. A willingness to engage in regular dialogue to coordinate joint initiatives was noted. The significance of the racehorse as a cultural symbol for Turkmenistan and the United Arab Emirates was emphasised.
An exhibition of works by People's Artists is to be held in Ashgabat
16.04.2026On 20 April, a joint exhibition by People’s Artists Babasary Annamyradov and Ada Gutlyev will open in the exhibition hall of the State Academy of Arts of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. The opening ceremony is scheduled for 16:00. Cultural figures, students from relevant universities and art enthusiasts are expected to attend. The exhibition is entitled ‘Saña at diýmerin, gardaş diýerin!’ (‘I won’t call you a horse, I’ll call you a brother!’). In their works, the artists draw on the image of the Ahal-Teke horse as a symbol of cultural tradition, historical memory and the bond between man and his native land. The project brings together works by two masters with different artistic styles, both focused on exploring national heritage within contemporary art. The exhibition showcases the creative dialogue between the artists, whose works hold a significant place in the artistic culture of Turkmenistan.
The rector of a Chinese medical university has been awarded an honorary title in Turkmenistan
16.04.2026During the visit by a delegation from Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, it was announced that the university’s rector, Tang Zhishu, had been awarded the title of Honorary Professor at the Myrat Garryev State Medical University of Turkmenistan. It was emphasised that this decision was taken in recognition of his contribution to the development of inter-university cooperation and the expansion of the exchange of experience between the two educational institutions, reports TDH. The speakers congratulated the guest of honour on being awarded this high title and noted that cooperation between Turkmenistan and China in the fields of healthcare and education is reaching a qualitatively new level, focused on long-term and sustainable development. Tang Zhishu, Rector of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, in turn, noted that it was a great honour for him to receive the title of Honorary Professor of the Myrat Garryev State Medical University of Turkmenistan. As noted, the progress observed in the implementation of cutting-edge scientific achievements and the strengthening of cooperation between relevant universities is the result of joint efforts and confirmation of the successful implementation of agreements reached at the highest level. The participants in the event congratulated Tang Zhishu on being awarded the honorary title and expressed their confidence in the further expansion and deepening of bilateral cooperation.
The ‘Alternative Medicine Centre’ has been opened at the Medical University of Turkmenistan
16.04.2026As part of the visit by a delegation from Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, led by Rector Tang Zhishu, an opening ceremony was held for the ‘Alternative Medicine Centre’ at the Myrat Garryev State Medical University of Turkmenistan. This event was a significant part of the packed programme for the visiting guests, reports TDH. The ceremony was given particular significance by the participation of Oguljahan Atabayeva, Vice-President for Medical Activities at the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship. The festive atmosphere of the opening was complemented by musical and singing performances by the medical university’s creative ensemble, lending the event a special cultural flavour. During the speeches, the multifaceted nature of Turkmen-Chinese cooperation was emphasised, with the fields of healthcare and education playing a key role. It was noted that the development of such initiatives reflects the state’s consistent focus on public health, diagnosis and disease prevention. In this context, the activities of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship were highlighted. The Foundation not only provides support within the country but also sends humanitarian aid to children facing difficult life situations in various regions of the world. The highlight of the event was the grand opening of the ‘Alternative Medicine Centre’ in the building of the Faculty of Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine at the Myrat Garryev State Medical University of Turkmenistan, accompanied by applause from the attendees. Guests were shown the room’s facilities and equipment, as well as materials on the main areas of alternative medicine. The opening marked another step forward in the development of the national healthcare system and the strengthening of international cooperation in the medical field.
A memorandum on the establishment of the Turkmen-Chinese Medical Centre has been signed
16.04.2026A Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the Myrat Garryev State Medical University of Turkmenistan and Beijing University of Chinese Medicine. The ceremony took place during a meeting with a delegation from the Chinese university led by Rector Tang Zhishu. This was reported by TDH. The signed document provides for the establishment of a Turkmen-Chinese Centre for Traditional Chinese Medicine, which will serve as a platform for the development of scientific and educational cooperation. As part of the event, participants were shown an exhibition dedicated to Turkmenistan’s national healthcare system. It featured information on medicinal plants growing within the country, as well as on the potential of the domestic recreational infrastructure. The presentation of various types of medicinal teas attracted particular interest. Particular attention was paid to the multi-volume scientific encyclopaedic work by Hero Arkadag, ‘Medicinal Plants of Turkmenistan’, which was presented at the exhibition as a significant contribution to the development of the country’s medical science.
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.
Turkey has proposed a model for developing tourism to Turkmenistan
16.04.2026On April 14, Turkish Tourism Week opened at the Turkish Cultural Centre in Ashgabat. The ceremony was attended by diplomats, representatives of the tourism industry, cultural figures and members of the media. The guest of honour was Nadir Alpaslan, Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Turkey. This was reported by the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. In his speech, he noted the shared historical and cultural heritage of Turkmenistan and Turkey, and emphasised the importance of the ‘One Nation, Two States’ concept for the development of tourism. The Deputy Minister proposed using the ‘Turkish model’ for the sector’s development. According to him, combining Turkey’s tourism potential with Turkmenistan’s attractions, including Ancient Merv, Nisa, Kunya-Urgench and the Karakum ecosystem, could contribute to the development of routes along the Great Silk Road. Nadir Alpaslan expressed interest in expanding investment and making more effective use of transport infrastructure with the participation of the public and private sectors. He expressed confidence that the holding of Turkish Tourism Week would create additional opportunities for cooperation.
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