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Serdar Berdimuhamedov discussed new investment projects with Japanese companies
19.12.2025President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov met with leaders of leading Japanese companies during the first ‘Central Asia-Japan’ summit in Tokyo. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal with reference to the newspaper ‘Turkmenistan’. The meeting took place at the ‘Palace Hotel Tokyo’ with the participation of representatives of the Turkmen-Japanese Economic Committee and corporations, including ‘Mitsubishi Corporation’, ‘Sumitomo Corporation’, ‘Komatsu Ltd.’, ‘Toyo Engineering Corporation’, ‘Kawasaki Heavy Industries’, ‘Tokyo Boeki Eurasia Limited’, ‘Mitsubishi Heavy Industries’, ‘Sumitomo Heavy Industries’, ‘Tohkemy Corporation’ and ‘ITOCHU Corporation’. Serdar Berdimuhamedov thanked Japanese businessmen for organising the meeting and emphasised Turkmenistan's desire to develop and expand cooperation with Japan, drawing on the experience and innovations of Japanese companies. The Head of State noted the importance of comprehensive economic transformation of the country, including industrialisation, the ‘green’ transition, energy diversification and the development of transport and logistics links. The President of Turkmenistan highly appreciated the contribution of Japanese companies to the economy of Turkmenistan and called on them to implement new projects in the fields of water supply, water treatment, waste management, ‘green’ and hydrogen energy, as well as the circular economy. In turn, Japanese businessmen expressed their readiness to continue cooperation and support the development of bilateral relations.
The President of Turkmenistan discussed expanding cooperation with the Japanese Parliament
19.12.2025During his visit to Tokyo, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov held negotiations with the Speaker of the House of Representatives of Japan, Fukushiro Nukaga, and the Head of the Japanese section of the Turkmen-Japanese Interparliamentary Friendship Group, Toshiaki Endo. This was reported by the news website Asmannews. The parties discussed expanding inter-parliamentary cooperation and strengthening bilateral ties. They noted the high level of cooperation within the UN and supported each other's initiatives on global stability and sustainable development goals. They also discussed the development of the ‘Central Asia-Japan’ dialogue and trade and economic cooperation, with Japanese companies implementing projects in the gas and chemical industries in Turkmenistan. Special attention was paid to cultural and humanitarian exchanges, the initiative to hold the first meeting of the Heads of parliaments of Central Asia and Japan, as well as the expansion of cooperation between women parliamentarians of the two countries.
The Ashgabat Declaration enshrined the priorities of Peace and Trust
19.12.2025The Ashgabat Declaration was adopted on 12 December 2025 at an International Forum dedicated to the International Year of Peace and Trust, International Neutrality Day and the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's Permanent Neutrality. The forum was held at the initiative of Turkmenistan in cooperation with the United Nations, according to TDH. The document reaffirms the commitment of states to the principles of the UN Charter, including sovereign equality, territorial integrity, non-interference in internal affairs and peaceful settlement of disputes. These norms are identified as the basis of the modern international order. The Declaration emphasises the importance of Turkmenistan's Permanent Neutrality, confirmed by three Resolutions of the UN General Assembly. Neutrality is seen as a factor in strengthening peace, stability and international cooperation at the regional and global levels. Special attention is paid to the UN Agenda for Sustainable Development until 2030. The document notes that Turkmenistan's initiatives to strengthen Peace and Trust contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. The Declaration supports the decision of the UN General Assembly to observe the International Year of Peace and Trust every five years, starting in 2025, and welcomes the designation of 2030 as the next such year. These steps are aimed at maintaining international attention on conflict prevention and dialogue development. The document confirms the role of the Group of Friends of Neutrality for Peace, Security and Sustainable Development, established on the initiative of Turkmenistan. The group is seen as a platform for sharing experiences and applying the principles of neutrality in preventive diplomacy. Special mention is made of the activities of the UN Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia, located in Ashgabat. The Centre has been operating since 2007 and promotes dialogue, conflict prevention and cooperation in the region, including on issues of transboundary water resources and climate change. The Declaration supports the initiative to establish a Chamber of Mediation for Peace in Turkmenistan. It is expected to become a permanent institutional platform for peace negotiations and conflict resolution with the participation of the UN. It also reflects the proposal of the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, to establish a University of Peace and Neutrality in cooperation with the UN. The institution will focus on training specialists in the field of preventive diplomacy and peacemaking, as well as on scientific research in this area. A separate item records the initiative to develop a Global Code of International Trust under the auspices of the UN. The document is seen as an additional tool for strengthening equality, sovereignty, cooperation and shared responsibility among states. In conclusion, the forum participants expressed their gratitude to the people and Government of Turkmenistan for hosting the International Forum and for the country's contribution to strengthening peace, stability and international cooperation. The Ashgabat Declaration identifies dialogue and trust as key priorities for global cooperation in the 21st century.
UNICEF Regional Director paid an official visit to Turkmenistan
19.12.2025UNICEF Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia Regina De Dominici visited Turkmenistan on an official visit. During her trip, she held meetings with representatives of the Turkmenistan Government, according to Turkmenportal. Negotiations were held with Deputy Prime Ministers Bayramgul Orazdurdyeva and Hojamyrat Geldimyradov, Human Rights Commissioner in Turkmenistan Yazdursun Gurbannazarova, and the governor of Mary velayat Dovranberdi Annaberdiyev. The parties discussed issues of further cooperation in the interests of children, UNICEF reports. Regina De Dominici noted the commitment of the Government of Turkmenistan to protecting the rights and well-being of children and confirmed UNICEF's readiness to continue joint work within the framework of the new Country Cooperation Programme for 2026-2030. The priorities include early childhood development, support for children with disabilities, the development of climate-resilient ‘green schools,’ youth engagement, and the strengthening of public financial mechanisms for the benefit of children. During her visit, the UNICEF Regional Director visited a children's hospital and Health Centre No. 3 in Mary velayat, as well as the pilot inclusive school No. 74 in Ashgabat. She also took part in the International Forum for Peace and Trust. Following the visit, Regina De Dominici noted the practical steps being taken in the country in the areas of inclusive education, child development screening and social support for families.
Prospects for cooperation between Turkmenistan and ‘Nicklaus Companies’ discussed
19.12.2025The National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov held a meeting with the President of ‘Nicklaus Companies’ John Reese. This was reported by TDH. During the negotiations, the parties discussed the development of cooperation in the field of sports and tourism. Special attention was paid to sports infrastructure projects. John Reese noted the socio-economic development of Turkmenistan and the architectural appearance of Ashgabat. He also emphasised the importance of the working visit of the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, to the United States of America and congratulated the Hero Arkadag on the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's Permanent Neutrality. As noted, the development of sports and tourism is considered one of the strategic areas of sustainable development in Turkmenistan. The country is in the process of developing a modern sports and tourism infrastructure in line with international standards and environmental requirements. The parties positively assessed the experience of cooperation with ‘Nicklaus Companies’. The golf club in Ashgabat, built to international standards and popular with residents and guests of the capital, was cited as an example. The potential for further partnership in the development of sports infrastructure was noted. In particular, the possibility of implementing the company's projects in the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone was considered. John Reese confirmed ‘Nicklaus Companies’ readiness to continue cooperation with Turkmenistan in the field of golf development.
Students from Turkmenistan win prizes at international competition in China
18.12.2025The 6th International Olympiad in Theoretical Mechanics for university students was held in Nanjing, China. The competition was organised by Hohai University. More than 600 students from 66 universities in different countries took part in the Olympiad, according to the state news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. Turkmenistan was represented by students from the State Energy Institute of Turkmenistan, Dursunjemal Atayeva and Myahriban Azadova. At the end of the Olympiad, both participants took second place in the individual competition and second place in the team competition. The jury noted their high level of training in theoretical mechanics. These results have been added to the list of international achievements of Turkmen students participating in competitions and Olympiads abroad.
Turkmenistan took part in a meeting of the Heads of Parliaments of Central Asia and the Republic of Korea
18.12.2025On 16 December, the Third Meeting of the Speakers of the Parliaments of Central Asian States and the Republic of Korea was held in Tashkent, with the Turkmen side taking part. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The event was attended by leaders and representatives of the parliaments of the countries of the region and the Republic of Korea, as well as representatives of the Embassy of Turkmenistan in the Republic of Uzbekistan. During the meeting, issues of developing inter-parliamentary dialogue and expanding multilateral cooperation between the states of Central Asia and the Republic of Korea were discussed. Within the framework of plenary meetings and thematic sessions, areas of cooperation in the field of social justice, environmental protection, climate change mitigation, rational use of natural resources and improvement of environmental legislation were considered. The participants also noted the significance of previous meetings held in Seoul in September 2023 and Ashgabat in October 2024, which confirmed the relevance of this format of interparliamentary cooperation, including with the participation of Turkmenistan. Following the meeting, a Joint Declaration of the Third Meeting of the Speakers of the Parliaments of the Central Asian States and the Republic of Korea was adopted.
The global media widely covered the International Forum on Peace and Trust in Ashgabat
18.12.2025Ashgabat hosted a high-level international forum dedicated to the International Year of Peace and Trust, International Neutrality Day, and the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's Permanent Neutrality. The forum was widely covered by the world media, according to TDH. Foreign publications noted Turkmenistan's neutrality as a key factor in its foreign policy and a basis for dialogue on regional and global issues. It was emphasised that the initiative to declare the International Year of Peace and Trust, put forward by Turkmenistan and supported by the UN General Assembly, is seen as a call for the restoration of inter-state dialogue. The media paid particular attention to the high level of representation at the Forum. The participation of Heads of State, heads of regional organisations and UN structures was cited as evidence of international support for Turkmenistan's peacemaking role. The publications also covered the practical outcomes of the Forum. These included proposals to strengthen energy security, develop sustainable transport, regional infrastructure and cooperation in the environmental sphere. Bilateral and multilateral meetings aimed at expanding economic and humanitarian cooperation were noted. Kazakh media quoted President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's statement on the importance of the Forum for international dialogue. The Chinese agency ‘Sinhua’ and other publications emphasised its high status and the symbolism of the dates on which it was held. ‘EADaily’ noted the Forum’s packed programme, including the ceremony of laying flowers at the Monument of Neutrality and the plenary session ‘Peace and Trust: Unity of Goals for a Sustainable Future’. ‘Infashos’ focused on the final document, the Ashgabat Declaration, as well as on cooperation between Turkmenistan and Russia within the CIS. Media outlets in Central Asia, the Caucasus and the Middle East linked the Forum to the strengthening of regional stability and good-neighbourly relations. The Indian newspaper ‘The Economic Times’ and the Azerbaijani publication ‘Tred.az’ noted the economic agenda, including the development of transport routes and the transit potential of the region. Russian media covered President Vladimir Putin’s participation and bilateral meetings in detail. The ‘TASS’ and ‘RIA Novosti’ agencies reported on discussions of trade and economic cooperation, infrastructure projects and international transport corridors, including the North-South route. The Iranian agency ‘IRNA’ presented the Forum as a platform for the development of economic cooperation and the implementation of infrastructure initiatives. The Turkish agency ‘Anadolu’ noted the importance of bilateral negotiations and discussions on regional projects. According to international observers, the Ashgabat Forum confirmed Turkmenistan’s role as a neutral platform for multilateral negotiations and coordination of efforts in the interests of Peace and Trust and sustainable development.
Turkmenistan and ‘FIT International’ discussed plans for cooperation in 2026
18.12.2025On 17 December, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan Myahri Byashimova held a meeting with Kurt Edwards, founder and President of the consulting company ‘FIT International’. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. During the negotiations, the parties discussed current cooperation and the results of ‘FIT International’s participation in events dedicated to the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's Permanent Neutrality. The work of the High-Level International Forum, which was held on 12 December in Ashgabat, was noted separately. The interlocutors emphasised their long-standing experience of cooperation with ‘FIT International’ in organising thematic events related to key events in Turkmenistan. The main focus was on preparing a plan for joint cultural and educational events scheduled for 2026 in honour of the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan's independence. In addition, the parties exchanged views on the development of humanitarian cooperation, including the establishment of contacts between the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship and relevant US organisations.
The President of Turkmenistan congratulated the Emir of Qatar on National Day
18.12.2025President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov sent a congratulatory message to Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani on the occasion of Qatar National Day. This was reported by AsmanNews. In his message, the Head of State noted the high level of Turkmen-Qatari relations and expressed confidence in the further development of cooperation in the interests of the peoples of the two countries. The President of Turkmenistan also wished the Emir of Qatar good health and success, and the people of Qatar peace, progress and prosperity.
The President of Turkmenistan arrived in Japan on a working visit
18.12.2025On 17 December, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov left for a working visit to Japan to participate in the first ‘Central Asia + Japan’ Dialogue Summit. The Head of State was seen off at Ashgabat International Airport by officials, according to the state news agency TDH. Turkmen-Japanese relations are developing on the basis of a strategic partnership. The parties are consistently implementing joint projects in industry, energy and ecology, as well as interacting in international formats, including the ‘Central Asia + Japan’ dialogue. With the participation of Japanese companies ‘Kawasaki Heavy Industries’, ‘Mitsubishi Corporation’ and ‘Itochu’ and ‘Sojitz’, large industrial projects have been implemented in Turkmenistan. These include a plant for the production of petrol from natural gas in Ovadandepe, a polymer plant in Gyyanly and a urea plant in Garabogaz. Special attention is paid to humanitarian cooperation. Ashgabat is home to the Oguz Han University of Engineering and Technology, where teaching is conducted according to Japanese standards. Japanese is taught in educational institutions in Turkmenistan, and students undergo internships at universities in Japan. This is the second visit by the President of Turkmenistan to Japan in 2025. In April, the Head of State visited Osaka to participate in the events of Turkmenistan's National Day at the EXPO 2025 World Exhibition and held a series of bilateral meetings. A few hours later, the Presidential plane arrived at Tokyo Haneda International Airport. The working visit continues.
The United States has lifted restrictions on the issuance of non-immigrant visas to citizens of Turkmenistan
17.12.2025The US administration has eased visa restrictions for citizens of Turkmenistan. US President Donald Trump signed the relevant Decree on 16 December 2025. The document was published by the White House and will come into force on 1 January 2026, according to Turkmenportal. According to the document, the ban on issuing non-immigrant visas of categories B-1, B-2, B-1/B-2, F, M and J to citizens of Turkmenistan has been lifted. These visas cover business, tourist, student and exchange trips. At the same time, the suspension of immigration visas for Turkmen citizens remains in force. The White House said that the decision to ease restrictions was made in light of Turkmenistan's cooperation with the United States and progress in the area of identity management and information sharing. It is noted that improvements have been recorded since the previous proclamation issued in June 2025. The Decree also provides for the expansion of the list of countries whose citizens are subject to entry restrictions into the United States by another 20 states and territories.
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