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Turkmenistan and Croatia Discuss Development of Bilateral Cooperation
29.06.2026Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Myahri Byashimova held a meeting with Frano Matušić, State Secretary for Political Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of the Republic of Croatia. The information was released by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The meeting took place during the visit of the Turkmen delegation to the Republic of Croatia on June 26–27 to participate in the international Dubrovnik Forum, titled "The Age of Multipolarity: Many Paths, One Future." The sides discussed the current state and prospects for the development of Turkmen-Croatian cooperation, noting the high level of interaction between the foreign ministries of the two countries. Particular attention was given to cooperation in trade and economic affairs, as well as environmental security issues. The participants also emphasized the importance of the Intergovernmental Commission, the development of direct contacts between business communities, and the expansion of cultural and humanitarian cooperation.
World Championship Motorcycle Added to the Motorsport Center of Turkmenistan's Ministry of Internal Affairs
29.06.2026The motorsport infrastructure of Turkmenistan's Ministry of Internal Affairs has been expanded with a new world-class racing motorcycle. A Honda track bike that previously competed in the FIM World Championship has been donated to the Ministry's Motorsport Center by Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan. The information was reported by the Orient news agency. The motorcycle holds the status of a diplomatic gift. It was originally presented to Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim during his official visit to Ashgabat. The gift was regarded as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries. It was later decided to transfer the superbike to young athletes to enhance their training and contribute to the development of national motorcycle racing. The motorcycle features high-performance specifications and an impressive racing pedigree. It was previously ridden by Malaysian racer Khairul Idham bin Pawi (Super KIP), who represented the Petronas MIE Racing Honda Team. According to organizers, the 121-horsepower machine competed during the 2024 FIM World Supersport season, where it was tested under international racing conditions. A ceremonial presentation of the motorcycle was held at the Ministry's Motorsport Center. As part of the event, an exhibition was organized with the motorcycle as its centerpiece. Young riders, veterans of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, and students of the Ministry's specialized institute had the opportunity to examine the bike and learn about its design. The event concluded with demonstration rides on the training circuit. Experienced riders from the center tested the motorcycle in motion, including high-speed cornering and braking performance. Participants noted that the addition of such equipment could improve rider training and further promote the development of motorsport in the country.
Turkmenistan's Ambassador Speaks at Roundtable During Forum in the Republic of Korea
29.06.2026The Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to the Republic of Korea, Begench Durdyev, took part in the Ambassadors' Roundtable dedicated to advancing multilevel cooperation between South Korea and the countries of Central Asia. The event was held on the sidelines of the 21st Jeju Forum for Peace and Prosperity in the Republic of Korea, according to the Orient News Agency. The discussion brought together diplomats, government officials, experts, and media representatives. Particular attention was given to preparations for the first Central Asia–Republic of Korea Summit, scheduled to take place in Seoul this September. Participants discussed key areas of cooperation, including energy, industry, and humanitarian ties. The Ambassador of Turkmenistan presented the country's economic potential and highlighted the resilience of the Turkmen-Korean partnership. He cited joint projects in the oil and gas and chemical industries involving Korean companies, as well as cooperation in the healthcare sector. He also noted the launch of the cargo vessel Gadamly as a symbol of industrial cooperation between the two countries. Meanwhile, an expert-level discussion was held in Dushanbe during the third Central Asia–Republic of Korea Think Tank Forum. Participants prepared recommendations for the governments of the region's countries ahead of the summit in Seoul.
Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Receives Birthday Congratulations
29.06.2026The National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, has received birthday congratulations from heads of state, government leaders, and representatives of international organizations. This was reported by the online news outlet AsmanNews. Congratulatory messages were sent by President of the People's Republic of China Xi Jinping, President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon, President of the Republic of Korea Lee Jae-myung, President of the Republic of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko, Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan, Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Mikhail Mishustin, Deputy Chairman of the Security Council of the Russian Federation Dmitry Medvedev, Chairwoman of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation Valentina Matviyenko, Secretary General of the Commonwealth of Independent States Sergey Lebedev, member of the ruling family of the State of Qatar Faisal bin Nasser bin Hamad Al Thani, United Nations Under-Secretary-General Miguel Ángel Moratinos, Chairman of the Caucasus Muslims Board and Co-Chairman of the CIS Interreligious Council Allahshukur Pashazade, Secretary General of the Council of the CIS Interparliamentary Assembly Dmitry Kobitsky, and Head of the Austrian-Turkmen Society Neda Berger. In their messages, they wished Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov good health, prosperity, and continued success in his state activities. The authors highly praised his contribution to the development of Turkmenistan, the strengthening of international cooperation, and the expansion of bilateral relations with various countries. The congratulatory messages also expressed readiness to further develop partnership with Turkmenistan in the political, trade, economic, humanitarian, and other fields. They also highlighted the importance of the country's policy of neutrality and its international initiatives aimed at promoting peace, security, and sustainable development.
Turkmenistan represented at the Dubrovnik Forum in Croatia
28.06.2026From 26 to 27 June 2026, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Mekhri Byashimova paid a visit to the Republic of Croatia to participate in the Dubrovnik Forum on the theme “The Age of Multipolarity: Multiple Directions, One Future,” according to the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The forum brought together representatives of governments and foreign ministries from more than 30 countries, as well as international organizations, think tanks, and academic and business communities. The event featured thematic sessions dedicated to the formation of a modern architecture of international relations, sustainable development, industrial transformation, international trade, transport and logistics cooperation, energy security, digitalization, and artificial intelligence. Speaking at the panel session “Universal Values in a Multipolar World: What Can We Learn from Each Other?”, Mekhri Byashimova presented Turkmenistan’s approach to strengthening a culture of peace, dialogue, mutual respect, and trust in international relations. The importance of Turkmenistan’s model of positive and permanent neutrality was highlighted, along with the country’s accumulated experience in developing international cooperation. Turkmenistan’s position in support of an international order based on respect for state sovereignty, non-interference in internal affairs, peaceful settlement of disputes, equal dialogue, and adherence to the UN Charter was emphasized. During the visit, Mekhri Byashimova held a meeting with the State Secretary for Political Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of the Republic of Croatia, Frano Matušić. The sides discussed the current state and prospects of Turkmen-Croatian relations, including political-diplomatic, trade-economic, and environmental cooperation. The importance of the Intergovernmental Commission’s work and expanding contacts between business communities of the two countries, as well as developing cultural and humanitarian cooperation, was noted. She also met with the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Bulgaria, Ivanka Taseva. The sides discussed prospects for developing Turkmen-Bulgarian relations in political-diplomatic, trade-economic, and cultural-humanitarian spheres, as well as cooperation within international organizations, including the UN and the EU. In addition, Mekhri Byashimova held talks with the State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Serbia, Nevena Jovanović. The parties discussed the current state and prospects for expanding Turkmen-Serbian cooperation in political, economic, and cultural fields.
The tanker “Dostluk” arrived at the Turkmenbashi International Seaport
28.06.2026The oil tanker “Dostluk” (“Friendship”), donated by Azerbaijan to Turkmenistan, has arrived at the Turkmenbashi International Seaport. A ceremonial welcome and concert were held in honor of the vessel and its crew, according to the IIC. Port officials, representatives of government authorities, elders, and young people gathered to greet the tanker. Turkmen cultural groups and dance ensembles performed for the guests. The ship’s crew was also welcomed with traditional refreshments. The tanker was handed over to the Turkmen side during the recent state visit of the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, to Baku. The vessel was built at the Baku Shipyard to expand Turkmenistan’s commercial fleet. It is 141 meters long, 17 meters wide, with a deadweight of nearly 8,000 tons. The tanker meets modern environmental standards and maritime safety requirements and is intended for transporting crude oil and petroleum products across the Caspian Sea and beyond. The vessel’s name symbolizes friendship between nations and is linked to the joint development by Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan of a hydrocarbon field of the same name. The tanker is expected to begin its first commercial voyages in the coming days, contributing to the development of regional transport and transit corridors.
Turkmenistan participates in international Erasmus+ educational events
28.06.2026Teachers from the State Energy Institute of Turkmenistan are taking part in international Erasmus+ programme events held from 20 to 30 June at Angel Kanchev University of Ruse in the city of Ruse (Bulgaria). This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan. The purpose of the visit is to study modern approaches to higher education, exchange experience in innovative teaching methods and digital educational technologies, as well as to develop international scientific cooperation. On the first day, an opening ceremony was held with the participation of representatives from 13 universities across 10 countries, including Turkmenistan, Bulgaria, France, Turkey, Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Albania, and Montenegro. Participants presented the achievements of their institutions, international projects, and cooperation experience. During the programme, discussions focus on the implementation of digital technologies and artificial intelligence in the educational process, the development of blended learning, interactive teaching methods, improving the effectiveness of scientific research, and enhancing the competitiveness of universities. As part of the visit, the international conference “CompSysTech'26” is also taking place, dedicated to computer systems and technologies. Participants are examining issues related to the development of artificial intelligence, information systems, cybersecurity, cloud technologies, software, and digital transformation.
Air Belgium prepares to launch cargo flights via Ashgabat
28.06.2026Belgian airline Air Belgium is planning to launch cargo flights via Ashgabat International Airport, preliminarily as early as the beginning of August. This was reported by the online publication “Business Turkmenistan”. Preparations for the launch were discussed during a meeting in Brussels between the Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Belgium, Sapar Palvanov, and the CEO of Air Belgium, Georges Chazaty. The parties summarized the results of the airline chief’s visit to Turkmenistan, following which an agreement was signed to begin cargo transportation through Ashgabat. Main attention was paid to organizational and technical aspects of launching the flights, as well as the possible holding of a symbolic opening ceremony. A representative of Air Belgium noted the logistical potential of Ashgabat Airport and its readiness to handle cargo operations. In turn, the Turkmen side emphasized the country’s development as a transit hub between Asia and Europe and its course toward expanding international transport connectivity. Following the meeting, both sides confirmed their interest in implementing the agreements and further developing cooperation.
Flower-Laying Ceremony Held in Ankara at the Monument to Turkmen Poet
28.06.2026On June 26, the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Türkiye organized a flower-laying ceremony at the monument to the Turkmen poet and philosopher Magtymguly Pyragy, located in Turkmenistan Park in central Ankara. The IIC reported this. The event was attended by representatives of diplomatic missions and international organizations, Turkish writers and public figures, students, members of the Turkmen diaspora, and media representatives. Speakers highlighted the significance of Magtymguly Pyragy's literary legacy for world literature and spoke about the events being held throughout 2026, which has been declared under the slogan: "Independent, Permanently Neutral Turkmenistan – the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses."
Turkmenistan and the EBRD: Preparations Underway to Expand Investment Cooperation
28.06.2026Turkmenistan is strengthening its investment cooperation with international financial institutions, including the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), the state news agency TDH reports. The information was presented by Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister of Foreign Affairs Rashid Meredov at a government meeting, where he briefed participants on preparations for the visit of the EBRD President to Turkmenistan next month. An expanded working meeting has already been held in Ashgabat with the participation of representatives of relevant government agencies and the EBRD. The parties discussed the coordination of bilateral documents that are expected to be signed during the upcoming negotiations. A package of agreements has been prepared covering the energy sector, transport and logistics, environmental initiatives, and the financial and banking sector. After hearing the report, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov noted the successful long-standing cooperation with the EBRD and instructed officials to continue developing the partnership.
Turkmen Chess Player Wins Gold at the 5th Rigo Janos Memorial GM-B Tournament
28.06.2026Turkmen grandmaster Meilis Annaberdyev won the international 5th Rigo Janos Memorial GM-B chess tournament, which concluded on June 26 in Balatonlelle, Hungary. The news was reported by the Turkmenportal news website. After nine rounds, Annaberdyev scored 6 points out of a possible 9, finishing first among ten participants from Hungary, Belarus, Greece, India, Poland, and Turkmenistan. He also gained 12.1 FIDE rating points, the highest rating increase among the tournament's medalists. Meilis Annaberdyev has held the title of International Grandmaster since 2022 and is among Turkmenistan's strongest chess players. His achievements include medals at international competitions, including the Chess Olympiad, as well as victories and podium finishes at major international tournaments.
Turkmen Judoka Wins Gold at the Judo Grand Prix in China
28.06.2026Turkmen judoka Maysa Pardaeva won the gold medal at the Judo Grand Prix taking place in Qingdao, China. The news was reported by the Turkmenportal news website. In the final of the women's 57 kg weight category, she defeated France's Martha Fawaz to claim the top spot on the podium. The Qingdao tournament concludes on June 28 and serves as the second event in the qualification cycle for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. The 21-year-old athlete has previously achieved success on the international stage, winning a bronze medal at the Grand Slam tournament in Ulaanbaatar. In 2024, Pardaeva also represented Turkmenistan at the Paris Olympic Games.
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