During his visit to the Republic of Austria, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, held a meeting with the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, Rafael Grossi. This was reported by the online publication AsmanNews.

The parties discussed the current state and prospects of cooperation with the IAEA. Turkmenistan’s commitment to the principles of the peaceful use of nuclear energy and the strengthening of global security was emphasised. The development of cooperation in recent years was noted. Key areas of focus include healthcare, where, with the Agency’s support, modern diagnostic and treatment methods are being introduced and the disease control system is being improved.

Issues relating to the expansion of the international legal framework were discussed. Turkmenistan’s participation in relevant international conventions was noted, including mechanisms for rapid notification and mutual assistance in emergencies. The parties reviewed the preparation of a new Country Framework Programme for 2026–2030. The document will define the priorities for technical cooperation, including the development of nuclear medicine and the enhancement of safety standards.

Particular attention was paid to supporting landlocked developing countries. The role of peaceful nuclear energy as a tool for development was emphasised.

Hero Arkadag proposed holding a high-level regional forum in Ashgabat to mark the anniversaries of the Treaty on a Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone in Central Asia and Turkmenistan’s accession to the IAEA. Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their readiness for further cooperation and exchanged best wishes.