News
The Jibek Joly international train has extended its route to Dushanbe
29.01.2026The Jibek Joly (‘Silk Road’) international tourist train will connect Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan for the first time as part of a single route. This was reported by Turkmenportal with reference to the press service of the national railway operator Kazakhstan Temir Zholy (KTZ). The train will run from 20 to 25 March 2026. For the first time, the route of the project has been extended to Dushanbe. The route includes the cities of Almaty, Turkestan, Samarkand, Dushanbe and Tashkent, with a return to Almaty. The tour programme includes an introduction to the culture, traditions and musical heritage of the peoples of Central Asia. The decision to launch tourist trains between Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan was made at the end of 2024.
Turkey emphasised prospects for cooperation with Turkmenistan in the energy sector
29.01.2026On 28 January, a press conference was held at the residence of Ahmet Demirok, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkey to Turkmenistan, with the participation of representatives of the media and business communities of both countries. The main topic of discussion was bilateral cooperation, including in the field of energy, according to the news website Turkmenportal. The Ambassador emphasised that energy partnership remains a key area of cooperation between Ankara and Ashgabat. He recalled the agreement between BOTAŞ and ‘Türkmengaz’ State Concern, signed on 10 February 2025, which provides for the supply of up to 2 billion cubic metres of Turkmen gas to Turkey via Iran. A. Demirok called the start of supplies a historic event and noted that it confirms Turkmenistan's status as a reliable participant in the global energy market. Among the long-term priorities, he highlighted the Trans-Caspian gas pipeline project, which, according to him, could open the way for Turkmen gas to European markets. According to the Diplomat, the current international situation creates a favourable ‘window of opportunity’ for the export of energy resources to the West, but it is necessary to act quickly. He also noted Turkmenistan's potential in electricity exports and expressed confidence that the development of this area will strengthen energy cooperation between countries.
Turkmenistan participated in discussions on the priorities of the ECO in Tehran
29.01.2026On 27 January, Tehran hosted a regular meeting of the Council of Permanent Representatives of the member countries of the Economic Cooperation Organisation (ECO). This was reported by the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The meeting was attended by the Ambassador of Turkmenistan, Permanent Representative of Turkmenistan to the ECO, Ilyas Gayipov. The main focus was on the progress of the implementation of the measures provided for in the Awaza Programme of Action 2024-2034. In particular, the ECO presented a project on the implementation of the third priority area of the Programme - ‘Transit, Transport and Connectivity’ in the ECO region. This proposal, as well as the initiative to organise specialised meetings for its practical implementation, were supported by the Council. Speaking at the meeting, Y. Gayipov expressed his gratitude to the ECO Secretariat and representatives of member states for their support of the proposed project, and noted the importance of active participation by all parties in its further implementation. In addition, participants were provided with information on the work done by the Organisation on the topic ‘Awaza Programme of Action 2024-2034 and the ECO Region’ within the framework of the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries, as well as on the steps planned for the coming period. It was noted that, at the initiative of the Turkmen side, the third priority area of the Awaza Action Programme, ‘Transit, Transport and Connectivity’, had been included in the draft document of the ECO, ‘Strategic Objectives of Economic Cooperation - 2035’, which is expected to be adopted in the near future.
Canadian Ambassador discusses prospects for strengthening ties with Turkmenistan
29.01.2026Christopher Duggan, Canada's Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Turkmenistan, noted the prospects for strengthening bilateral relations between the countries in an interview with IIC. ‘Our embassy is located in Astana (Kazakhstan), and I have the honour of being Canada's Ambassador to the entire region. I am currently in Turkmenistan and I am very happy to be here,’ the Ambassador emphasised. Mr. Duggan noted that he sees great potential in the development of bilateral relations, as the countries have much in common in terms of peace, security, trust and participation in multilateral international institutions. The Diplomat reported that representatives of Turkmenistan recently made a successful visit to the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, and a meeting was held to discuss new opportunities for further cooperation and strengthening communication between the countries. The Head of the diplomatic mission noted that Turkmenistan faces common challenges that create opportunities for finding joint solutions, and expressed hope for the strengthening of these ties and his return to the country. According to him, it is important for him not only to work in Turkmenistan, but also to seek ways to build a more just and peaceful future for both countries.
Ashgabat launches direct flights to 14 cities around the world
29.01.2026On 25 January, Turkmenistan's national airline launched an updated international flight schedule, expanding opportunities for business and leisure travel. This was reported by the news website Asmannews. Direct flights from Ashgabat are now available to 14 major cities in Europe, Asia and the Middle East. The current schedule is published on the airline's website and provides convenient connections to key global destinations. The airline network covers Asian cities such as Beijing, Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, Kuala Lumpur, Seoul and Delhi; European hubs such as London, Frankfurt and Milan; and Arab centres such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Jeddah. Connections to Russia and Turkey are maintained via Kazan and Istanbul. The most frequent flights are to Istanbul and Kazan. Flights to the Persian Gulf countries operate up to seven times a week, to European cities twice a week, and to Asian metropolises once or twice a week. This schedule provides passengers with flexibility and reliability when planning international trips.
Turkmenistan highlighted the contribution of Turkic peoples to the world's linguistic heritage
29.01.2026Dovletmyrat Seyitmammedov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to Georgia, took part in an event dedicated to World Turkic Language Family Day, which was held at the Tbilisi branch of the Yunus Emre Institute, a Turkish cultural centre. This was reported by the Orient news agency. On this day, the centre became a magnet for diplomats and scholars representing the countries of the Turkic world. The Heads and representatives of the diplomatic missions of Turkey, Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan also took part in the solemn meeting. The main topic of discussion was UNESCO's decision to declare 15 December as World Turkic Language Family Day. Participants emphasised that this step is not a formality, but a recognition of the significant contribution of Turkic peoples to global linguistic diversity. In his speech, D. Seyitmammedov emphasised that Turkic languages are not just a means of communication, but ‘living bridges between generations.’ They encode history, the wisdom of ancestors and great poetry, which continues to enrich the spiritual heritage of humanity. According to the Ambassador, the establishment of such a day will be a powerful stimulus for global dialogue and large-scale scientific research. This will preserve unique dialects and strengthen ties between civilisations, where a common language becomes the foundation for a common future.
The Ambassador of Turkmenistan held a meeting with the Director of the Qatar Institute of Diplomacy
29.01.2026On 27 January, Myratgeldi Seyitmammedov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to Qatar, held a meeting with Abdulaziz bin Mohamed Al-Horr, Director of the Institute of Diplomacy of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Qatar. This was reported by the Orient news agency. During the conversation, the Ambassador of Turkmenistan announced that 2026 has been declared the year of ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’ in Turkmenistan. According to the Head of the diplomatic mission, international events and scientific conferences are planned in connection with the 35th anniversary of the country's independence. In addition, the parties discussed issues related to expanding their partnership and preparing new joint programmes within the framework of the Memorandum of Understanding between the Institute of International Relations of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan and the Institute of Diplomacy of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Qatar.
Turkmenistan and Canada launch joint projects in the field of journalism
29.01.2026A meeting was held at the International Information Centre (IIC) of Turkmenistan between Annasahet Kakayev, Deputy Chairman of the State Committee for Television, Radio Broadcasting and Cinematography, and Christopher Duggan, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Canada to Turkmenistan (residing in Astana). This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the launch of joint projects in the field of media development, including the introduction of artificial intelligence in journalism, academic exchanges and capacity building for the media in Central Asia. A key area of focus will be cooperation between the ‘HEC Montréal’ business school and Turkmen universities — Magtymguly Turkmen State University and the Institute of International Relations of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan — which will include educational events and visits by Canadian teachers. Special attention was paid to environmental journalism and the training of young professionals with the participation of the United Nations University for Water Resources, as well as the launch of subregional media initiatives in collaboration with TVTM. The central event will be Media Week in Ashgabat, dedicated to artificial intelligence, digital storytelling and podcasting. The agreements reached continue the cooperation that began during the visit of the Turkmen delegation to Canada in August 2025 and are aimed at expanding access for Turkmen specialists to advanced international practices.
The Mejlis of Turkmenistan presented certificates to participants of English language courses
28.01.2026On 27 January, the Mejlis of Turkmenistan held a ceremony to award certificates to deputies and parliamentary specialists who had completed advanced training courses in English. This was reported by the press service of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan. The training was organised jointly by the US Embassy in Turkmenistan and the American company ‘QED Group LLC’. The course programme was aimed at developing the participants' language and communication skills, as well as expanding their opportunities in the field of international and inter-parliamentary cooperation. The ceremony was attended by Elizabeth Rood, US Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Turkmenistan, who noted the relevance of learning English and the prospects for continuing similar educational projects.
Turkmenistan and Tajikistan increased trade turnover by 20% in 2025
28.01.2026In 2025, the volume of mutual trade between Turkmenistan and Tajikistan grew by approximately 20% as a result of expanding the range of products supplied. This was reported by Vafo Niyatbekzoda, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Tajikistan to Turkmenistan, according to the news website Turkmenportal. According to the Diplomat, the growth in trade turnover reflects the strengthening of trade and economic ties and the interest of business circles in both countries in developing mutually beneficial cooperation. V. Niyatbekzoda also emphasised that relations between Tajikistan and Turkmenistan are characterised by a high level of trust and good neighbourliness. In 2025, the countries celebrated the 33rd anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, which during this time have reached the level of a deep strategic partnership. Turkmenistan and Tajikistan actively interact in the political, economic, social and cultural spheres, and also cooperate within international organisations, including the UN, OSCE, CIS and others.
Universities in Turkmenistan and Qatar develop scientific and academic cooperation
28.01.2026On 26 January, a delegation led by Salem bin Nasser Al-Naemi, President of the University of Doha for Science and Technology (Qatar), visited the Institute of Telecommunications and Informatics of Turkmenistan as part of a working visit to Turkmenistan. This was reported by the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. During the visit, a Memorandum of Understanding on scientific and academic cooperation was signed between the Institute of Telecommunications and Informatics of Turkmenistan and Doha University of Science and Technology. The document aims to develop cooperation between universities in the field of science and education. On the same day, the Rector of the Qatari university gave a lecture to teachers and students, talked about the scientific and academic activities of the university and answered questions from the audience. The delegation also familiarised itself with the scientific projects and programme developments of the institute and visited the museum of the educational institution. On 27 January, the delegation from Doha University of Science and Technology visited the Oguz Han University of Engineering and Technology in Turkmenistan. The parties held consultations on cooperation in the field of science and education and discussed the training of specialists in accordance with international standards. The Qatari side expressed particular interest in cooperation in the fields of artificial intelligence, e-sports, robotics and electronics. The prospects for signing a Memorandum of Understanding and a student exchange agreement were also discussed. During the visit, the Qatari delegation met with Turkmenistan's Minister of Education, J. Gurbangeldiyev. The parties discussed priority areas and plans for joint work, confirming their mutual interest in developing scientific and academic cooperation between Turkmenistan and Qatar.
Ashgabat prepares to host CIS Railway Transport Council meeting
28.01.2026Ashgabat is preparing to host the 84th meeting of the Council on Railway Transport of the Commonwealth of Independent States. This was reported on the website of the ‘Demirýollary’ Joint Stock Company of the Ministry of Railway Transport of Turkmenistan. The agenda of the meeting includes issues related to the implementation of decisions made at previous meetings, indicators and efficiency of international freight and passenger transport, as well as the formation of schedules for passenger, freight and container trains. Participants will also discuss pricing policy and the procedure for mutual settlements between railway administrations. Earlier, Deputy Minister of Rail Transport of Turkmenistan S. Nurberdiyev said at the SPECA economic forum in Ashgabat that the country is working to develop the region as a transport hub and invites partners to participate in logistics projects.
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