News
Turkmenistan and Romania are developing cooperation in equestrian sports
27.03.2026On March 24, a meeting took place at the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Romania between the Ambassador of Turkmenistan, A. Annaev, and the President of the Romanian Equestrian Federation, Marilena Mladin, the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan reported. The parties discussed prospects for cooperation in horse breeding and equestrian sports. Special attention was given to the Akhal-Teke horse breed as a national symbol of Turkmenistan. The Turkmen side provided information on the development of the sector, including infrastructure modernization, the activities of the State Association “Turkmenatlary,” and the Aba Annaev International Academy of Horse Breeding. The National Turkmen Horse Festival was also discussed separately. It was noted that events held within its framework promote the exchange of expertise among specialists. At the conclusion of the meeting, both sides confirmed their readiness to develop cooperation, including the implementation of joint projects and professional exchanges.
Turkmenistan offers foreign investors preferential profit tax rates
27.03.2026At the “Turkmenistan – EU” business forum, Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy Babanyaz Yalakov presented the country’s investment climate. Foreign investors are offered a profit tax of 8%, or 2% if calculated based on revenue, according to Infoportal. The fiscal system has remained stable for over 20 years: six basic taxes with fixed rates, a property tax of 1%, and a personal income tax of 10%. Agricultural enterprises are exempt from most taxes. A preferential profit tax rate applies to both private and foreign capital. State loans are provided at 5% per annum for up to 10 years; for agricultural producers, the rate is 1% per annum for up to 7 years. Turkmenistan is establishing free economic zones along its borders with neighboring countries. The free trade zone with Uzbekistan has already increased trade turnover between the two countries. In 2025, the third phase of the Ashgabat–Turkmenabat highway is planned to open, strengthening transport links with Uzbekistan. The Deputy Minister highlighted the country’s transit potential as a competitive advantage. Turkmenistan has seven international airports and participates in the East–West, North–South, and Azure corridors connecting Afghanistan and Turkey. In terms of integration into the global trade system, work continues on joining the WTO and adapting national legislation to its standards. International assessments of the country are improving: in July 2025, Fitch confirmed Turkmenistan’s credit rating at “B-” with a positive outlook, and the World Bank included the republic in the Business Ready system for assessing the business climate.
Expansion of trade and economic ties with the EU was discussed in Ashgabat
27.03.2026On March 26, the business forum “New Horizons for Strengthening Connectivity, Attracting Investment and Sustainable Development” was held at the capital’s Ýyldyz Hotel as part of expanding the multifaceted dialogue between Turkmenistan and the European Union. It was attended by representatives of Turkmenistan’s state institutions, diplomatic missions, international organizations and foreign businesses, AsmanNews reported. The participants discussed the development of cooperation between Turkmenistan and the European Union, including the improvement of the business environment, expansion of trade and attraction of investment. Particular attention was paid to strengthening the legal framework for entrepreneurship and supporting private sector exports. During the forum, the importance of integration into the global trading system and advancing Turkmenistan’s accession process to the World Trade Organization was noted. According to the participants, this would create additional opportunities for attracting investment and technologies. The second session addressed issues of transport and logistics connectivity. The discussions focused on the digitalization of customs procedures, trade facilitation and infrastructure development within the East–West and North–South international corridors. The third session was devoted to the green economy, renewable energy sources and the reduction of methane emissions. The participants discussed the introduction of environmentally friendly technologies and the expansion of cooperation with European partners in this area. As part of the forum, a number of bilateral documents aimed at developing investment cooperation were signed. Following the event, the participants noted the potential for further strengthening partnership. Bilateral meetings between representatives of state institutions, businesses and European partners were also held on the sidelines of the forum.
President of Turkmenistan received congratulations from the ECO Secretary-General
27.03.2026Secretary-General of the Economic Cooperation Organization Asad Majeed Khan sent a congratulatory letter to President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov on the occasion of Oraza and Nowruz holidays. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. In his message, he extended warm wishes to the Government and people of Turkmenistan. The ECO chief expressed hope that the holidays would contribute to strengthening peace, prosperity and cooperation in the region, as well as to fostering friendly relations and solidarity among countries.
The Turkmen Ambassador in Islamabad received the new Portuguese Ambassador
26.03.2026On 25 March, the new Portuguese Ambassador to Pakistan, Paulo Miguel Guedes Domingues, paid a visit to the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Islamabad to meet with the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to Pakistan, Atajan Movlamov. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. During the meeting, the Turkmen Ambassador congratulated the Portuguese diplomat on his appointment and wished him success and fruitful work in Pakistan. The parties discussed issues relating to the functioning of the diplomatic corps in the Pakistani capital and cooperation with the country’s state and private organisations. Following the negotiations, both sides reaffirmed their mutual desire to maintain regular contacts within the diplomatic community.
Turkmen trade unions are strengthening their cooperation with the International Labour Organisation
26.03.2026A delegation from the National Trade Union Centre of Turkmenistan visited the headquarters of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) in Geneva. The purpose of the visit was to align national labour mechanisms with international standards and to prepare joint projects, according to the news agency Orient. The Roadmap for 2026 was the focus of discussions. Turkmenistan reaffirmed its intention to strengthen cooperation with the ILO, including the modernisation of legislation in line with ratified conventions, the monitoring of working conditions and the creation of digital databases to analyse compliance with labour rights. Particular attention was paid to the principles of ‘Decent work’, expanding employment and social protection. The delegates examined the work of the ILO Bureau for Workers’ Activities (ACTRAV) and discussed reporting issues to align national practices with the organisation’s technical requirements. The visit also served as preparation for the International Labour Conference in Geneva in June 2026, where Turkmenistan will be able to exchange experiences and present its achievements in the protection of workers’ rights.
A forum on gender equality has begun in Ashgabat
26.03.2026A forum entitled ‘Advancing Gender Equality: An Inter-Parliamentary Dialogue to Strengthen Legislative Frameworks to Ensure Progress on Gender Equality and Gender-Based Violence’ has opened in Ashgabat. This was reported by the press service of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan. The event is organised by the Mejlis of Turkmenistan in conjunction with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). Participants are discussing the implementation of state policy on gender equality, measures to prevent and combat gender-based violence, and the incorporation of universally recognised norms of international law into national legislation. In addition, the focus is on the development and practical application of inclusive laws, as well as the improvement of social protection and accountability systems, taking gender aspects into account.
Turkmenistan presented initiatives in the field of early childhood education at a forum in Paris
26.03.2026On 25 March, at UNESCO headquarters in Paris, the Minister of Education of Turkmenistan, Jumamyrat Gurbangeldiyev, attended the launch of the Global Education Monitoring Report (GEM Report 2026) and held a series of bilateral meetings. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. During the high-level dialogue, the Minister emphasised the strategic role of early childhood education in the development of human capital in Turkmenistan. J. Gurbangeldiyev highlighted the focus on digital technologies, the development of children’s creative and cognitive abilities, as well as the training and professional development of teachers. The Minister spoke about joint initiatives with UNICEF, including the launch of half-day groups for five-year-olds from the 2026–2027 academic year, as well as the development of inclusive education and cooperation between schools, families and state bodies. A meeting was held during the forum with Ezozhon Karimova, Minister of Pre-school and School Education of Uzbekistan. Discussions centred on cooperation in pre-school and secondary education, the exchange of experience in teacher training, the introduction of modern teaching methods, the participation of schoolchildren in international competitions, and joint educational programmes. Following the meetings, the parties confirmed their interest in further strengthening their partnership and expanding practical cooperation in the fields of education, science and innovation. It should be noted that the Minister of Education of Turkmenistan also held meetings with the Director-General of UNESCO, Khaled El-Enany, and the Assistant Director-General for Education at UNESCO, Stefania Giannini.
Ashgabat is strengthening its position within UNESCO’s global education network
26.03.2026The Minister of Education of Turkmenistan, Jumamyrat Gurbangeldiyev, met with Stefania Giannini, UNESCO’s Assistant Director-General for Education. The meeting took place on 25 March at UNESCO headquarters in Paris, according to the press service of the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan. The talks took place as part of events marking the launch of the Global Education Monitoring Report (GEM Report 2026). The parties discussed the development of cooperation in the field of education, including digitalisation, inclusive approaches, teacher professional development and lifelong learning. The Turkmen side emphasised that partnership with UNESCO remains one of the priority areas of international cooperation. Particular attention was paid to educational reforms in Turkmenistan, the expansion of cooperation with relevant UNESCO bodies, and Ashgabat’s participation in the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities. Stefania Giannini highly commended Turkmenistan’s efforts to modernise the education system, develop inclusive and high-quality education, and strengthen international cooperation. Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their readiness to further expand practical cooperation in the field of education.
Turkmenistan is strengthening its energy sector and expanding its exports
26.03.2026Turkmenistan’s energy strategy is based on diversification: the country is expanding its exports of high-tech products and electricity. Investments in the sector have increased production capacity, enabling the country to meet domestic demand and boost exports. Turkmenistan is becoming an important energy hub for Central and South Asia, promoting regional integration and cooperation, reports TDH. As part of the modernisation programme, new gas-turbine power stations, power transmission lines, distribution stations and substations have been built. A major project to integrate the power grid into a single ring includes the Ahal–Balkan line (started in 2021), Mary–Ahal (completed in 2023) and Balkan–Dashoguz (commissioned in 2024). This ensures the redistribution of electricity and a stable power supply to industry and the population. The country is introducing the latest technologies and cooperating with international companies. A 1,574 MW combined-cycle power station is under construction in the Balkan velayat, which will strengthen energy security, open up new export routes and increase electricity supplies to neighbouring states. Combined-cycle power stations also comply with environmental standards. Turkmenistan is implementing ISO 14001, automated air monitoring and localised production of transformers and cable products. Existing power stations, including the Mary Hydroelectric Power Station, are being modernised, and solar and wind power stations (e.g., Gyzylarbat, 10 MW) are being built to ensure stable energy production. Joint projects with ‘General Electric’ and ‘Sumitomo Corporation’ are enabling the implementation of ‘smart grid’ technology and microprocessor-based substation protection. The new gas turbine plant at the Lebap Hydroelectric Power Station (432 MW) has strengthened integration into the global power system and expanded export opportunities. Environmental technologies are being developed, and CO₂ and NOₓ emissions are being reduced. The electricity supply along the route of the ‘Turkmenistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan–India’ gas pipeline is creating conditions for industrial investment in Afghanistan. Turkmenistan’s system is integrated into the unified energy system of Central Asia, which strengthens regional stability. The State Energy Institute provides training for specialists, whilst technical maintenance is carried out by the Repair Centre in the Büzmeyin etrap. The Centre services ‘General Electric’ gas turbines and modern equipment in accordance with international standards. Turkmenistan utilises the low cost of electricity generated from natural gas to invest in socio-economic and high-tech sectors. Renewable energy sources are being developed – solar panels and mobile wind turbines provide energy for settlements and pastures. Hydrogen is regarded as a key resource for the future. Turkmenistan, which has large gas reserves, is developing the hydrogen sector and establishing a cluster and centre at the Yagshygeldi Kakayev International University of Oil and Gas for research and the production of ‘green’ and ‘blue’ hydrogen. Joint pilot projects are being implemented with companies from Japan and Europe. Turkmenistan’s energy diplomacy is strengthening the country’s position on the international stage. Initiatives for the reliable transit of energy resources are supported by the UN General Assembly, confirming the state’s role as a stabiliser of the regional energy market.
Putin emphasised the strategic partnership between Russia and Turkmenistan
26.03.2026Relations between Russia and Turkmenistan are characterised by a deep strategic partnership. This was stated by the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin, in a message of congratulations to the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, on the occasion of the spring festival of Nowruz, reports TDH. Putin expressed confidence in the further development of cooperation in all areas, aimed at the welfare of the peoples and the strengthening of security in Central Asia and the Caspian region. The Russian President wished Serdar Berdimuhamedov good health and success in his work, and the people of Turkmenistan happiness and prosperity.
Turkmenistan and the EU discussed the development of their partnership
26.03.2026On 25 March, a meeting took place between Myahri Byashimova, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, and Charlotte Adrian, Head of the Central Asia and Afghanistan Unit at the European Commission’s Directorate-General for International Partnerships (DG INTPA). This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed prospects for cooperation between Turkmenistan and the European Union. Particular attention was paid to trade and economic ties and the development of transport and transit connectivity between Central Asia and the EU. Issues relating to cooperation in the energy sector were considered separately. Interest in continuing sector-specific dialogue was confirmed, as well as in developing partnerships in the field of ‘green’ energy and the climate agenda. EU projects in Turkmenistan and the region were also discussed, including initiatives in the fields of youth, sustainable energy, trade and digital connectivity. Following the meeting, a commitment was reaffirmed to further strengthen cooperation both bilaterally and within the framework of the ‘Central Asia–European Union’ dialogue.
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