News
Turkmenistan and Malaysia discussed cooperation in the agricultural sector
03.04.2026On 2 April, the Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Malaysia, M. Mashalov, met with the Malaysian Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Haji Mohamad bin Sabu. The meeting was attended by heads of departments within the ministry, representatives of the Malaysian Institute of Agricultural Research and Development, the South and Central Asia Division of the Malaysian Foreign Affairs Ministry, as well as staff from the Embassy of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The Ambassador noted the need to intensify cooperation in the agricultural sector and reaffirmed Turkmenistan’s openness to joint projects. Discussions covered the establishment of joint ventures, the digitalisation of agriculture, the exchange of expertise, the development of export logistics and environmentally friendly production. The parties considered specific areas: joint agricultural enterprises in Malaysia, processing of agricultural produce, support for investors, the introduction of precision farming, seed production, livestock farming, the use of drought-resistant crops, modernisation of irrigation, efficient water use and the simplification of phytosanitary and veterinary procedures. It was proposed to draft a Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries’ ministries of agriculture. Minister H.M. Sabu highlighted the effectiveness of trade and economic cooperation and noted the prospects for developing trade in fresh fruit and vegetables. He shared Malaysia’s experience in the field of irrigation systems and ‘smart farm’ projects. The Turkmen side was briefed on the activities of the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI). Discussions took place regarding the conclusion of a Cooperation Agreement between research institutes and the organisation of exchange visits for specialists. The Ambassador invited Malaysian specialists to take part in the international exhibitions ‘Agro Pack Turkmenistan – 2026’ and ‘Food Turkmenistan 2026’, which will be held in Ashgabat from 12 to 14 May.
Turkmenistan and Japan are strengthening their scientific and technological cooperation
03.04.2026On 1 April, Turkmenistan’s Ambassador to Japan, A. Bayramov, met with H. Koinuma, President of the Turkmen-Japanese Science and Technology Association, and representatives of Japanese companies collaborating with the association. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The meeting discussed the further development of scientific and technological cooperation between Turkmenistan and Japan. The possibility of new Japanese companies and organisations entering the Turkmen market was considered. Plans were discussed for the introduction of water purification technologies and equipment by the Japanese company ‘Tohkemy Corporation’. It is cooperating with the Oguz Han University of Engineering and Technology on the basis of a Memorandum of Understanding signed on 15 April 2025. They also reviewed a project by a professor from Chubu University on the processing of natural gas into liquefied gas for subsequent export and the production of helium from liquefied gas. In addition, the meeting participants were briefed on the capabilities of the Japanese organisation ‘Asia Seed’ in the development of human resources within the education systems of Asian countries.
The Chinese company WMGrass is exploring the Turkmenistan market
03.04.2026The ‘Cooperation and Development’ International Exhibition, which has opened in Ashgabat, has provided a platform for direct negotiations between Turkmen and foreign companies. The event is being held at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Participants are showcasing innovations in the energy sector, infrastructure and other industries. This is reported by the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The Chinese company ‘WMGrass’ from Xinjiang Province presented its products. The company is considering entering the Turkmenistan market against the backdrop of the development of sports and urban infrastructure. As noted by the company’s representative, Una Wu, this was their first visit to the country. According to Wu, the artificial turf is characterised by its resistance to wear and tear and climatic conditions. The material does not require frequent watering, retains its properties when exposed to the sun and is designed for long-term use. The company offers surfaces for football pitches, golf clubs, tennis courts and multi-purpose sports grounds. The products are certified by international organisations, including FIFA Sports Labs, the IAAF and the ITF. Tests were carried out in independent laboratories, including Labosport and Sports Labs. A separate range of solutions for landscape design is also available. The surfaces are designed for the landscaping of parks, playgrounds, hotel grounds and private properties.
Serdar Berdimuhamedov sent a message of congratulations to the President of Brazil
03.04.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, has sent a congratulatory message to the President of the Federative Republic of Brazil, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, to mark the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. This was reported by the website AsmanNews. The Head of State emphasised that bilateral relations are based on the principles of mutual respect, equality and trust. He noted Turkmenistan’s interest in further expanding cooperation. The President expressed confidence in the development of cooperation in the interests of both nations. He also wished Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva good health and well-being, and the people of Brazil progress and prosperity.
Turkmenistan and Tunisia have reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation
02.04.2026On 1 April, Rashid Meredov, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, held a telephone conversation with Mohamed Ali Nafti, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Migration and Tunisians Abroad of the Republic of Tunisia. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed topical issues on the bilateral agenda and reaffirmed their interest in developing political and diplomatic dialogue, as well as expanding trade, economic, cultural and humanitarian ties. At the conclusion of the conversation, the ministers reaffirmed their commitment to further expanding multifaceted cooperation between Turkmenistan and Tunisia.
UNDP has updated its climate education project for Turkmenistan
02.04.2026The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Turkmenistan held a closing workshop for the regional project ‘Climate Education for Sustainable Development Goals and Climate Action (Climate Box)’, which aims to strengthen climate education in the country. This was reported by IIC. The workshop was attended by representatives from the education, environment and health sectors, the academic community, youth organisations, NGOs and international partners. The project, funded by the Russian Federation, supports knowledge exchange, international cooperation and the dissemination of best practices in climate education. The educational material is already available in 17 languages and has become a global platform for schoolchildren and teachers. The highlight of the event was the presentation of the updated version of the ‘Climate Box’, an interactive educational package adapted to the conditions of Turkmenistan, created with the participation of national experts and available in both print and electronic formats. UNDP Resident Representative in Turkmenistan Narine Sahakyan noted that education and the development of environmental literacy among young people are key to addressing climate challenges. Russian Ambassador to Turkmenistan Ivan Volynkin highlighted the project’s long-term impact on the development of environmental culture in Central Asia. The workshop included presentations of the adapted kit, demonstrations and talks by scientists, teachers and students. The event concluded with the handover of the ‘Climate Box’ to national partners, including the Ministry of Education, for use in schools across the country. The ‘Climate Box’ project covers countries in Eastern Europe, Central and South-East Asia, engaging children and young people in learning about climate change and inspiring them to take action. In Turkmenistan, its implementation was made possible due to the support of the country’s government and the Trust Fund of the Russian Federation.
Turkmen culture attracted visitors to the Nowruz celebrations in the German capital
02.04.2026On 30 March, a grand celebration of Nowruz took place in Berlin. The event was organised by the diplomatic missions of Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkey and Uzbekistan, bringing together representatives of the diplomatic corps, federal agencies and local residents. This was reported by the news agency Orient. Guests were able to explore national stands showcasing the history, traditions and cultural values of the participating countries. The Turkmenistan stand attracted particular attention with its national costumes, carpets, handicrafts and materials on Ahal-Teke horses. The cultural programme included performances by artists featuring national music, songs and dances. Performances on the Turkmen dutar – a traditional musical instrument – were of particular interest. The celebrations concluded with a tasting of national cuisine, where guests sampled ‘palaw’ and other traditional dishes, gaining an insight into the gastronomy of the Turkic peoples. ‘Nowruz’ in Berlin proved to be a vibrant cultural event and a platform for strengthening friendship and dialogue between nations.
A delegation from Turkmenistan took part in a CAREC meeting on skills development
02.04.2026A delegation from the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan, led by Deputy Minister Azat Atayev, took part in the third annual meeting of the CAREC Skills Development Working Group. This was reported by the press office of the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan. The meeting continued the regional work begun in 2024, with a focus on the development of ‘green’ skills, climate-resilient agriculture and a just transition. For Turkmenistan, participation in the initiative is of strategic importance, as the CAREC platform contributes to the modernisation of higher and vocational education, the strengthening of links with the labour market and the introduction of new forms of workforce training. The outcomes of this cooperation are already being utilised in the country to develop methodological guidelines for forecasting in-demand skills and integrating ‘green’ competencies into education policy. The development of modern skills is a key prerequisite for the technological transformation of the economy, the sustainable modernisation of industries, and the transition to more resource-efficient and innovative production models. The outcomes of the meeting are also viewed as an important contribution to the implementation of Turkmenistan’s Higher Education Development Strategy for 2026–2052, including the updating of educational programmes, the expansion of international cooperation, and the training of specialists required in the context of sustainable development.
The International Exhibition ‘Cooperation and Development’ has opened in Ashgabat
02.04.2026The ‘Cooperation and Development’ International Exhibition opened on 2 April in Ashgabat at the premises of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. More than 100 leading global brands are taking part in the event, showcasing modern technological solutions and innovations across various sectors. According to the organisers, the exhibition aims to strengthen international cooperation and open up new opportunities for entering the Turkmen market. The exhibition covers a wide range of sectors: materials and raw materials, lighting and automation systems, ‘smart’ technologies and control systems, electrical products, security solutions, as well as heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment. Also on display are tools and equipment, interior design solutions, finishing and insulation materials, ceramics, as well as landscaping and modular structures. The organisers note that the exhibition will serve as a platform for direct communication between international manufacturers, distributors and business representatives. The event is open to representatives of relevant ministries and departments of Turkmenistan, members of business associations, entrepreneurs and foreign companies.
Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan are focusing on developing Caspian logistics
02.04.2026A government delegation from Turkmenistan, headed by Deputy Prime Minister Nokerguly Atagulyev, visited Azerbaijan on 1 April to continue regional negotiations on the development of the ‘East–West’ route. Following discussions in Georgia, the focus in Baku was on the Caspian section of the Middle Corridor, reports the news agency Orient. During meetings with Azerbaijani officials, the parties discussed strengthening cooperation in the fields of logistics, energy and investment, emphasising the importance of the partnership between Ashgabat and Baku for the sustainability of the transit route. Particular attention was paid to the development of port and railway infrastructure. In particular, plans were considered for dredging at the port of Turkmenbashi to accommodate large-tonnage vessels and increase cargo throughput. The Turkmen delegation was also briefed on the experience of the Port of Baku, which handled over 100,000 TEU (twenty-foot equivalent units) in 2024. The digitalisation of transport was a separate topic of discussion. The parties noted that real-time data exchange between ports and railways would help speed up the transit of goods along the ‘East–West’ route. Nokerguly Atagulyev’s series of visits to Georgia and Azerbaijan signals Turkmenistan’s shift towards a more active and technology-driven logistics policy. Against this backdrop, the coordination of the ports of Turkmenbashi, Baku and Georgian hubs is seen as part of a broader strategy to create a single transport space between Central Asia, the Caucasus and Europe.
A delegation from Turkmenistan is taking part in a transport forum in St. Petersburg
02.04.2026The International Transport and Logistics Forum opened in St. Petersburg on 1 April 2026. The event is taking place at the ‘EXPOFORUM’ Convention and Exhibition Centre from 1 to 3 April. A delegation from Turkmenistan, led by Deputy Minister of Railway Transport Sylapberdi Nurberdiyev, is taking part in the forum, reports the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The forum has brought together representatives of international organisations, transport and logistics companies, as well as port and warehouse infrastructure providers. Participants are discussing the development of international transport corridors, freight and passenger logistics, digital services and the introduction of new technologies. The agenda also includes issues relating to industry regulation and the development of the transport sector. It was noted that Turkmenistan consistently advocates the development of international dialogue in the field of transport connectivity. On the country’s initiative, the UN General Assembly has adopted a number of resolutions on transport cooperation. It was also emphasised that the first UN Global Conference on Sustainable Transport was held in Turkmenistan in 2016. The participation of the Turkmen delegation is seen as a continuation of efforts to develop international cooperation in the transport sector.
Turkmenistan is increasing its oil refining capacity and exports of petroleum products
02.04.2026Turkmenistan is developing its oil and gas sector as a key industry of the economy, increasing the processing of raw materials and the export of products. The policy focuses on modernising the energy sector, introducing new technologies and attracting investment. This is reported by TDH. The projects currently underway are aimed at strengthening energy security and expanding infrastructure. The priorities are energy efficiency, digitalisation, the development of processing, and cooperation with international companies. Particular attention is being paid to the transition from the export of raw materials to the production of finished goods. Modern and environmentally friendly solutions are being introduced in the sector, enabling increased production volumes and compliance with international standards. The Turkmenbashi Oil Refinery Complex remains the key enterprise. Its development is linked to the modernisation of production, the expansion of the product range and the growth of export supplies. The enterprise has introduced deep oil refining technologies, including catalytic cracking, which allows for the processing of over 90% of raw materials. An ELOU-AT-7 unit with a capacity of 3 million tonnes per year has been commissioned. The complex produces a wide range of products: petrol, diesel fuel, kerosene, liquefied gas, polypropylene and lubricants. The fuel complies with international environmental standards. The production of road bitumen, used in motorway construction, is being developed. Storage and export capacities for liquefied gas are being expanded. Production processes are automated, and digital control systems have been implemented. Logistics are facilitated through cooperation with the Turkmenbashi International Sea Port. Environmental safety remains a key priority. The plant operates systems for environmental monitoring and pollution control. Staff training and the development of social infrastructure for employees are underway. Concurrently, projects are being implemented to expand capacity and enhance the deep processing of raw materials. Particular attention is being paid to the introduction of ‘green’ technologies and the reduction of emissions. The complex is viewed as a base for environmentally sustainable solutions. The Turkmenbashi Oil Refinery Complex plays a role in the development of international energy corridors and the strengthening of the country’s export position. In the long term, Turkmenistan aims to diversify its oil and gas sector, expand production and enhance economic stability.
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