News
Turkmenistan has begun developing a system for forecasting labour market demand
11.09.2026UNDP in Turkmenistan, in collaboration with the country’s Ministry of Education, has launched the pilot phase of the ‘National System for Strategic Human Capital Planning’ project. The initiative aims to establish a coherent, data-driven system linking demographic trends, education, skills development and labour market needs, according to the news website Turkmenportal. The project was launched at the first coordination meeting, attended by key government bodies and international UNDP experts. The project will help strengthen the capacity of national institutions in data analysis, skills forecasting and strategic human capital planning. One of the key areas of focus is the collection and analysis of data for human capital foresight and skills planning in Turkmenistan, according to a UNDP press release. As part of the international experts’ visit, consultations will be held with relevant ministries and departments on issues relating to human capital planning, labour market needs, available data and mechanisms for inter-agency cooperation. The outcomes of these consultations will be taken into account when developing the national system. UNDP Resident Representative in Turkmenistan, Narine Sahakyan, noted that human capital development is a key prerequisite for sustainable development, and that the country’s young population presents significant opportunities for its future. Azat Atayev, Deputy Minister of Education of Turkmenistan, emphasised that education transforms demographic potential into skilled and competitive human capital. According to him, the project is conceived not as an analytical study, but as a practical planning tool that will help identify medium- and long-term needs for specialists and skills, link these to the workforce training system, and improve the soundness of decision-making regarding educational priorities. Atayev added that the value of the project would depend on whether it was possible to establish a mechanism enabling the training of personnel in advance, rather than reacting to shortages after the event. The initiative is in line with Turkmenistan’s national priorities in the fields of education, human capital, digital transformation and economic diversification, including the Strategy for the Development of Higher Vocational Education for 2026–2052 and its implementation plan for 2026–2030.
Negotiations took place in Ashgabat between the Head of the MFA of Turkmenistan and the CIS Secretary-General
11.09.2026In Ashgabat, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Rashid Meredov held a meeting with CIS Secretary-General Sergey Lebedev, who had arrived in the country to take part in the 111th meeting of the CIS Economic Council. This was reported by the press office of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the practical implementation of the priorities of Turkmenistan’s presidency of the Commonwealth, as well as preparations for upcoming events at the highest and high levels. Separately, they addressed issues relating to preparations for the meetings of the CIS Council of Foreign Affairs Ministers and the CIS Council of Heads of State, which are to take place on 7 and 9 October at the ‘Awaza’ National Tourism Centre: organisational aspects and the content of the agendas were reviewed. The parties reaffirmed their commitment to continuing their cooperation.
A journalist from Turkmenistan took part in CIPCC-2026 in Beijing
11.09.2026From September to December 2026, China is hosting the ‘China International Press Communication Centre (CIPCC) 2026’ international training programme for journalists. This was reported by the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The opening ceremony took place on 8 September in Beijing. The programme is being implemented as part of the ‘International Information Centre’ project and brings together 109 journalists from 101 countries. Among the participants is a representative of the online newspaper ‘Altyn asyr’ from Turkmenistan. The aim of the programme is to familiarise foreign journalists with China’s political, economic and cultural life, as well as to strengthen international cooperation in the media sector. Participants will have the opportunity to enhance their professional skills and broaden their knowledge of the PRC’s political system, its economic development and foreign policy. The organisers note that such programmes contribute to fostering dialogue between countries and strengthening professional ties among journalists from different nations.
A delegation from Turkmenistan took part in an obstetrics conference in Ankara
10.09.2026A delegation from Turkmenistan took part in the regional conference ‘Accelerating Midwifery in Eastern Europe and Central Asia’, held on 7–8 September in Ankara. This was reported by Turkmenportal. The conference was attended by representatives of health ministries, international experts and specialists from countries in the region. Participants discussed the development of midwifery, regional cooperation and the preparation of multi-year national action plans to ensure safe motherhood and strengthen health systems. The event was organised by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the Turkish Ministry of Health and the Turkish Cooperation and Co-ordination Agency (TIKA). The conference also served as a platform for political dialogue, the exchange of experiences and the alignment of national practices with international standards in the field of maternal and newborn health.
Turkmenistan and Tajikistan are strengthening their bilateral ties
10.09.2026Turkmen-Tajik relations continue to develop across the board on the basis of good neighbourliness, mutual respect and trust. This was stated by T. Atahallyev, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan, during a speech at a formal reception marking the 35th anniversary of the independence of the Republic of Tajikistan, according to the news website Turkmenportal. The Deputy Prime Minister noted that cooperation between the two countries is underpinned by historical, spiritual and cultural ties, and that the convergence of Turkmenistan’s and Tajikistan’s positions is evident in their collaboration at regional and international levels, including within the framework of the UN. According to T. Atahallyev, regular meetings between the Heads of State and the existing legal and treaty framework contribute to the development of bilateral relations. The Joint Turkmen-Tajik Inter-governmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific and Technical Co-operation also plays an important role. Particular attention is paid to humanitarian cooperation. The countries organise Culture Days, exhibitions and creative gatherings, and are also expanding links between universities and research institutions. The Deputy Prime Minister expressed his confidence in the further strengthening of mutually beneficial cooperation and conveyed his best wishes for prosperity and well-being to the people of Tajikistan on the occasion of Independence Day.
The Vice Governor of St. Petersburg visited Ashgabat
10.09.2026Vladimir Omelnytsky, Vice Governor of Saint Petersburg (Russian Federation), paid a working visit to Turkmenistan. The programme included laying flowers at the ‘Halk hakydasy’ (People’s Memory) memorial complex, a meeting with a survivor of the Siege of Leningrad, and negotiations on bilateral cooperation, reports the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The St. Petersburg delegation paid tribute to those who lost their lives during the Great Patriotic War. During the war, Turkmenistan took in around 32,000 residents of Leningrad and its environs. Despite the hardships of wartime, local residents provided the new arrivals with the necessary assistance. In Ashgabat, Vladimir Omelnytsky met with Galina Mamedova, a survivor of the Siege of Leningrad. She noted the attention and support given to veterans by both Russia and Turkmenistan. On the instructions of the Governor of St. Petersburg, Alexander Beglov, the delegation held negotiations with representatives of relevant Turkmenistan government departments. The parties discussed the supply of pharmaceutical products and equipment for the new International Medical Centres in Ashgabat. It was also proposed to hold online seminars using artificial intelligence technologies to facilitate the exchange of expertise between healthcare specialists from St. Petersburg and Turkmenistan. In addition, discussions centred on touring performances by St. Petersburg theatres, the organisation of museum exhibitions and displays in Ashgabat, as well as the expansion of trade and economic cooperation. Vladimir Omelnytsky thanked the Turkmen leadership and the country’s Government for their hospitality and for their support in developing bilateral cooperation.
A reception was held in Ashgabat to mark the 35th anniversary of Tajikistan’s independence
10.09.2026An official reception was held in Ashgabat to mark the 35th anniversary of the Republic of Tajikistan’s independence. The event was attended by the Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan, T. Atahallyev, representatives of diplomatic missions and international organisations, as well as members of the Tajik diaspora, according to the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. Vafo Niyatbekzoda, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Tajikistan to Turkmenistan, highlighted the significance of 9 September and spoke about Tajikistan’s development since gaining independence. The diplomat paid particular attention to bilateral relations. According to him, cooperation between the two countries is developing within the framework of a deepened strategic partnership and is based on mutual respect. This is evidenced by regular high-level contacts and the existing legal and treaty framework. Speaking on behalf of Turkmenistan was T. Atahallyev, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan. He emphasised that relations between the two states are based on traditions of good neighbourliness, spiritual kinship and fraternal ties. The Deputy Prime Minister also noted the convergence of Turkmenistan’s and Tajikistan’s positions on a number of international issues, including within the framework of the UN. According to him, regular meetings between the Heads of State contribute to strengthening mutual understanding and developing cooperation.
Serdar Berdimuhamedov received a message of congratulations from the President of Serbia
10.09.2026The President of the Republic of Serbia, Aleksandar Vučić, has congratulated the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, and the people of Turkmenistan on the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Serbia and Turkmenistan. This was reported by the news agency TDH. In his congratulatory letter, Aleksandar Vučić noted that, over the past three decades, bilateral relations have developed on the basis of friendship and mutual respect. He stated that Serbia attaches great importance to its ties with Turkmenistan and is keen to further strengthen them. The Serbian President expressed his confidence that political dialogue would continue and that cooperation would be expanded in areas of mutual interest. Aleksandar Vučić also wished the President of Turkmenistan every success in his work, and the people of the country peace, well-being and prosperity.
The Head of Turkmenistan received the Ambassador of the French Republic
10.09.2026On September 9, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov received the newly appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the French Republic to Turkmenistan, Alena Grand, who presented her credentials to the Head of State. This was reported by the online news site AsmanNews. The French Ambassador conveyed greetings from the President of France, Emmanuel Macron, to the Head of State and National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, and noted France’s interest in the further development of mutually beneficial cooperation with Turkmenistan. Serdar Berdimuhamedov conveyed his best wishes to the French Head of State, congratulated Alena Grand on her appointment and wished her every success in her diplomatic mission. During the meeting, the parties discussed the state of and prospects for Turkmen-French relations. It was noted that France is one of Turkmenistan’s key European partners. Cooperation is developing in the trade and economic, energy, and cultural and humanitarian spheres. Particular attention was paid to the two countries’ interaction on international forums, including the United Nations and the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov emphasised that bilateral relations are based on the principles of mutual trust, respect and openness. At the same time, cooperation is expanding not only at the intergovernmental level, but also between representatives of the private sectors of both countries. The parties noted opportunities for further expanding trade and economic ties and implementing joint initiatives in the fields of energy, transport and logistics infrastructure, science and culture. Alena Grand expressed her readiness to work towards the further development of intergovernmental cooperation between France and Turkmenistan.
The President of Turkmenistan received the credentials of the new EU Ambassador
10.09.2026On 9 September, the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, received the newly appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the European Union to Turkmenistan, Luc Pierre Devigne, who presented his credentials to the Head of State. This was reported by the news agency TDH. The EU Ambassador thanked Serdar Berdimuhamedov for the meeting and noted that he considered it an honour to represent the European Union in Turkmenistan. He also conveyed greetings from the President of the European Council, António Costa, and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, to the Head of State and National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. The President of Turkmenistan conveyed his best wishes to the leadership of the European Union, congratulated Luc Pierre Devigne on his appointment and wished him every success in his diplomatic work. During the meeting, the parties discussed the state of play and prospects for cooperation between Turkmenistan and the European Union. It was noted that this cooperation spans the political, trade and economic, and cultural and humanitarian spheres. Particular attention was paid to the development of political dialogue and the exchange of views on topical issues on the international and regional agenda. In the trade and economic sphere, opportunities were highlighted for increasing trade turnover, expanding business contacts with European companies and implementing new investment projects. Energy, transport and logistics, industry, agriculture, digital technologies and environmental protection were identified as promising areas. Cooperation in the transport and communications sector was discussed separately. The parties noted the importance of developing routes via the Caspian Sea to European markets and the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor. Prospects for cooperation also relate to the energy sector, including the development of renewable energy sources and the transition to a ‘green’ economy. Cooperation in the cultural and humanitarian spheres, including in the fields of education, science and culture, was also identified as an important area of bilateral relations. Luc Pierre Devigne assured President Serdar Berdimuhamedov of his readiness to facilitate the further development of relations between the European Union and Turkmenistan.
The Turkmenistan national team will compete in an international tournament in China
10.09.2026The Turkmenistan national football team will take part in the CFA Team China International Football Competitions Chongqing 2026, an international tournament to be held in the Chinese city of Chongqing. This was reported by IIC of Turkmenistan. Five national teams will take part in the competition: Turkmenistan, China, New Zealand, Palestine and Tajikistan. The Turkmenistan national team will kick off their campaign on 24 September with a match against New Zealand. On 28 September, they will face the Palestinian national team. Turkmenistan’s final match will be against the tournament hosts, the Chinese national team. The match will take place on 2 October at 19:35 Beijing Time in Chongqing.
Turkmenistan and China discussed cooperation on migration
10.09.2026On 8 September 2026, a delegation from the State Migration Service of Turkmenistan visited the People’s Republic of China to take part in the Forum on Cooperation in the Field of Migration Management. This was reported by IIC. A meeting took place in Lianyungang between representatives of Turkmenistan and the leadership of the State Administration for Migration Affairs of the PRC. The parties discussed current issues of bilateral cooperation and emphasised the importance of regular contacts for strengthening the partnership. The participants exchanged views on the prospects for cooperation and identified the main areas for further joint work. Particular attention was paid to coordinating efforts within the framework of international organisations. Following the negotiations, the parties reaffirmed their readiness to continue developing inter-agency cooperation.
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