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Turkmenistan and the EU have reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation
30.03.2026Sapar Palvanov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan, held a meeting in Brussels with Sylwia Kosinska, Diplomatic Adviser to the President of the European Parliament. This was reported by the press service of the diplomatic mission of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of cooperation between Turkmenistan and the European Union, emphasising the importance of high-level contacts, the development of bilateral cooperation and the ‘EU–Central Asia’ format. Particular attention was paid to the international agenda, including climate issues. It was noted that Turkmenistan, as an energy producer, has joined the Global Methane Pledge. The participants also gave a positive assessment of the inter-parliamentary dialogue held in Brussels in March, describing it as an important platform for discussing economic and humanitarian issues. Energy, transport, critical raw materials and climate were identified as priority areas for cooperation. The need to further modernise the legal framework for cooperation was also emphasised. Furthermore, the parties noted the growing role of Turkmenistan and the Central Asian region as a consistent transport bridge between Europe and Asia. Following the meeting, mutual interest in continuing the dialogue and expanding practical cooperation was reaffirmed.
The Ambassador of Turkmenistan held a meeting with Japan’s Minister for Economic Security
30.03.2026On 26 March, a meeting took place in Tokyo between Atadurdy Bayramov, Turkmenistan’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Japan, and Kimi Onoda, Minister of State for Economic Security. This was reported by the press service of the Turkmen diplomatic mission. During the negotiations, the Turkmen diplomat expressed his gratitude to the Japanese side for its contribution to the strengthening and development of Turkmen-Japanese relations. The interlocutors discussed the current state and prospects of bilateral cooperation, paying particular attention to areas such as artificial intelligence and digital transformation, scientific and innovative cooperation, ‘green’ technologies, the development of education and support for talented young people, the expansion of contacts between universities and relevant organisations, as well as issues of economic and cyber security. It is noted that K. Onoda also holds the post of Minister of State responsible for the ‘Cool Japan’ strategy, intellectual property policy and scientific and technological development. Furthermore, she is a member of the Japan–Turkmenistan Inter-Parliamentary Friendship Group.
Turkmenistan is strengthening its trade partnership as part of the TFCA project
30.03.2026A meeting of the Steering Committee for the implementation of the TFCA Regional Project, carried out by GIZ on the initiative of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), took place in Turkmenistan. The event was held under the Memorandum of Understanding signed with the country’s Ministry of Trade and Foreign Economic Relations in March 2024, reports IIC. The meeting served as a platform to review the work carried out in 2024–2025 and to define cooperation priorities within the TFCA and TCTC projects up to 2029. Representatives of relevant ministries and agencies of Turkmenistan, as well as project managers, took part in the discussions. Particular attention was paid to the establishment of an Inter-ministerial Working Group on the simplification of trade procedures, which receives advisory support from GIZ. This group will help to speed up trade operations, increase transparency and reduce administrative barriers, which directly supports the growth of trade turnover and the country’s economic development. During the meeting, participants discussed the results achieved and outlined key activities for the coming period. The meeting was attended by Nazar Agahanov, Minister of Trade and Foreign Economic Relations of Turkmenistan, and Joachim Fritz, GIZ Coordinator in Turkmenistan.
Turkmenistan's U16 tennis players have reached the semi-finals of the Davis Cup
30.03.2026Turkmenistan’s junior tennis team finished fourth out of 15 teams at the preliminary qualifying tournament for the U16 Davis Cup in the Asia-Oceania zone, which concluded in Colombo (Sri Lanka). This was reported by the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The team, seeded sixth, was represented by 9th grade students: Suleyman Hudayberdiyev (Specialised Secondary School No. 86, Ashgabat), Ali Geldiyev (School for the Training of Young Olympians) and Kerimgeldi Guldurdyev (A.S. Pushkin Joint Turkmen-Russian School). In the group stage, the Turkmenistan team finished top of Group ‘B’, beating the Oman team 3–0 and defeating the teams from Myanmar and Singapore 2–1 in hard-fought matches. In the quarter-finals, the Turkmen tennis players secured a confident 2-0 victory over the Philippines. In the semi-finals, the Turkmenistan team lost 0–2 to the third-seeded Vietnamese side, showing resilience and fighting spirit in two lengthy singles matches. In the third-place play-off, the Turkmen juniors lost to Sri Lanka, conceding only in the doubles match – 1–2. The team thus finished the tournament in fourth place, achieving their best result in all their years of participation in the regional Davis Cup qualifiers. Ali Geldiyev made a significant contribution to this success, securing five victories in six singles matches at tournaments in Qatar and Thailand. Kerimgeldi Guldurdyev and Suleyman Hudayberdiyev, who have experience of competing in international tournaments, also played an active part in the team’s victories. The juniors’ preparation for the tournament was overseen by their personal coaches and the captain of the Turkmenistan national team, Gurbanberdi Gurbanberdiyev. Ali Geldiyev honed his skills under Gurbanberdi Gurbanberdiyev and Meylis Orazmuhammedov, Suleyman Hudayberdiyev trained under the guidance of Yuri Rogussky, and Kerimgeldi Guldurdyev under Hajymyrat Charyev. In the final of the preliminary tournament, the teams from Malaysia and Vietnam competed for a place in the final qualifying round, where the Malaysian tennis players secured a 2-0 victory. The Davis Cup Junior was established by the International Tennis Federation (ITF) in 1985 as the World Cup for boys under 16 and has been held under its current name since 2002. The winners of the regional qualifiers advance to the final stage, where they compete for the title of champion.
Chinese Ambassador: Relations with Turkmenistan have reached the level of a strategic partnership
30.03.2026Ji Shumin, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to Turkmenistan, emphasised that Chinese-Turkmen relations have reached the level of a comprehensive strategic partnership. He noted that the visit to Beijing by the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, had opened a new chapter in the development of bilateral cooperation. This was reported by the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The Ambassador recalled that from 17 to 19 March, at the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov paid a friendly visit to China. This was the first visit by a foreign leader following the conclusion of the annual sessions of the National People’s Congress and the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, key events in the socio-political life of the PRC. ‘The visit of the National Leader of the Turkmen people to Beijing was an important step which, by linking the past and the future, opened a new chapter in bilateral relations. President Xi Jinping held a cordial meeting with Hero Arkadag. The sides discussed in detail the strengthening of cooperation in various fields, reached broad consensus and gave a powerful impetus to joint work,’ emphasised Ji Shumin. The Ambassador also spoke highly of the current level of relations between the two countries, noting that the dynamic development of Chinese-Turkmen relations serves as a model of political cooperation. ‘Political mutual trust between China and Turkmenistan is steadily strengthening. The friendly ties between our peoples have deep historical roots. Our countries are good friends, brothers and partners who support one another. Over the 34 years of diplomatic relations, Chinese-Turkmen ties have maintained steady, sound and consistent development, reaching a new level of comprehensive strategic partnership,’ noted Ji Shumin.
A programme of cultural events for April has been announced in Turkmenistan
30.03.2026On 27 March, Bahar Seyidova, Deputy Chairwoman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan, presented a plan of events and the opening of social and cultural facilities for April during a government meeting. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. Next month will see forums, exhibitions, creative gatherings, competitions and events timed to coincide with the 2026 motto ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’, the 35th anniversary of independence, World Health Day and the National Day of the Turkmen horse. The results of previously announced creative competitions will also be announced. The capital will host the ‘Turkmentravel – 2026’ International Exhibition and Conference, whilst the Magtymguly National Music and Drama Theatre will host a festive concert by the Symphony Orchestra of the Maya Kuliyeva Turkmen National Conservatory. Having heard the report, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov emphasised the importance of thorough preparation for the events and instructed the Deputy Prime Minister to ensure a high standard of organisation for the ceremonies and the opening of social and cultural facilities.
Ashgabat is preparing for the international exhibition ‘Cooperation and Development’
30.03.2026Nokerguly Atagulyev, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan, delivered a report on preparations for the ‘Cooperation and Development’ International Universal Exhibition, due to be held in the capital this April. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. According to him, 80 companies from Turkmenistan and abroad, representing various sectors, have so far confirmed their participation in the exhibition. Registration of participants is ongoing. The exhibition will feature equipment and machinery, metal products and building materials, chemical products and other goods. The Deputy Prime Minister also submitted a proposal regarding the organisation of the event to the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, for consideration. Having heard the report, the Head of State noted that international forums are regularly held in the country, contributing to the strengthening of trade and economic ties with other states. The President of Turkmenistan instructed the Deputy Prime Minister to ensure a high standard of preparation and organisation for the Universal International Exhibition ‘Cooperation and Development’ in Ashgabat.
The fifth anniversary of the Charitable Foundation was celebrated in Turkmenistan
30.03.2026On 29 March, celebrations were held in Turkmenistan to mark the fifth anniversary of the establishment of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship. The events took place in the festival square in the city of Arkadag, according to AsmanNews. At the start of the celebrations, a congratulatory address from the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, was read out. It noted that supporting children and safeguarding the health of mothers and children remain priorities of state policy. During the event, a Decree by the Head of State was read out awarding state honours to a number of individuals for their contribution to the development of charitable activities. The ‘Arkadag’ medals were presented to Narine Sahakyan, Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme in Turkmenistan, and Jalpa Ratna, Head of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Office in Turkmenistan. Congratulatory speeches were delivered by the Speaker of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan, D. Gulmanova, the Deputy Chairwoman of the Cabinet of Ministers, B. Seyidova, and other participants. They highlighted the importance of the Foundation’s work in supporting children. Representatives of international organisations emphasised the development of cooperation with Turkmenistan in the humanitarian sphere. In particular, they highlighted the implementation of joint projects with UNICEF and the United Nations Development Programme. O. Atabayeva, Vice-President for Medical Activities at the Charitable Foundation, reported that since its establishment in 2021, the Foundation has been providing medical and social assistance to children. According to her, programmes for treatment, rehabilitation and prevention are being implemented. It was noted that the Foundation is expanding its international cooperation. Memoranda of Cooperation have been signed with UNICEF, the Soong Ching Ling Foundation of China and the Heydar Aliyev Foundation. International conferences and meetings dedicated to child protection issues are being held. Following the official proceedings, a festive concert took place featuring artists, creative groups and pupils from children’s art schools. At the conclusion of the event, an Appeal to the President of Turkmenistan was adopted.
A coordination meeting on the Pandemic Fund project took place in Ashgabat
30.03.2026On 27 March, a National Coordination Meeting was held in Ashgabat on the Pandemic Fund project ‘Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response’ as part of the ‘One Health’ approach in Central Asia. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The event was organised by the WHO, FAO and the World Bank in collaboration with national and regional partners. Representatives from relevant ministries, international organisations and development partners, including The World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) and The Regional Environmental Centre for Central Asia (CAREC), took part in the meeting. Participants discussed achievements for 2024–2025, priorities for 2026, improved coordination and solutions to programme implementation challenges. A series of technical sessions facilitated the exchange of experiences and the development of comprehensive measures against health threats. During the meeting, participants reaffirmed their commitment to cross-sectoral and intergovernmental cooperation, emphasising its importance in reducing the risks of future pandemics. Launched in 2024, the project covers Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan and aims to strengthen disease surveillance, laboratory capacity, workforce training and health system management within the framework of ‘One Health’.
Youth from Turkmenistan is participating in an educational program in India
29.03.2026A youth delegation from Turkmenistan, alongside representatives from other Central Asian countries, is participating in an orientation program in India from March 24 to April 2, 2026, according to the news website Turkmenportal. The visit takes place in Mumbai, Goa, and New Delhi and includes meetings with officials as well as visits to scientific, educational, and cultural sites. In Mumbai, participants visited the Bombay Stock Exchange, the Indian Institute of Technology, and several landmark attractions, including the Elephanta Caves, the Gateway of India, and the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Museum. They also held a meeting with the Governor of Maharashtra. On March 28, the delegation is in Goa, exploring the region’s historical and cultural sites. In the coming days, visits to the National Institute of Oceanography and a meeting with the state governor are planned. The program will conclude in New Delhi with meetings with Indian ministers, participation in the Mera Yuva Bharat youth initiative, and a visit to Humayun’s Tomb. The project is implemented as part of youth diplomatic exchange between India and Central Asian countries and aims to promote humanitarian cooperation in the fields of science, technology, culture, and entrepreneurship.
A working mission on the TCTC program took place in Turkmenistan
29.03.2026In Tashkent in November 2025, the European Union, GIZ, and Expertise France signed a tripartite agreement to launch the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor (TCTC) Capacity Development Program, the IIC reports. The program aims to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of the TCTC — a route connecting Central Asia with Europe. The initiative’s goal is to establish a predictable and competitive transport corridor that promotes economic growth and regional development. The program is scheduled for implementation from 2026 to 2029 and is carried out by GIZ in partnership with Expertise France. From March 24 to 27, 2026, a working mission took place in Turkmenistan, led by Asel Uzagalieva, Deputy Head of the “Trade Facilitation in Central Asia” (TFCA) project. The delegation included representatives from Expertise France. The purpose of the visit was to meet with public and private institutions to identify priority activities. Discussions were held with the Ministry of Trade and Foreign Economic Relations, the Ministry of Finance and Economy, the State Plant Quarantine Service, the Ministry of Agriculture, the Turkmenistan Transport and Logistics Center (TULM), as well as the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs of Turkmenistan. The delegation also visited the Turkmenbashi International Sea Port and met with representatives of the State Maritime and River Transport Service and the port management to discuss further cooperation.
A protocol has been signed to the memorandum between Turkmenistan and GIZ
29.03.2026Turkmenistan’s Minister of Trade and Foreign Economic Relations, Nazar Agakhanov, and GIZ Coordinator in Turkmenistan, Joachim Fritz, signed a protocol amending the Memorandum of Understanding from March 2024, the IIC reports. The document provides for the continued implementation of the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor Capacity Development Program in Turkmenistan. The program was launched following the International Investors Forum on the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor held in Tashkent in November 2025. At that time, the European Union, Germany, and France signed a tripartite agreement on its implementation. The initiative aims to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of the transport route connecting Central Asia and Europe. The program’s implementation in the region is scheduled for 2026–2029. The project will be carried out with financial support from the EU, Germany, and France, with the involvement of GIZ and Expertise France.
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