On 17 June, within the framework of the second ‘Central Asia – China’ summit in Astana, a meeting was held between the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, and the President of the People's Republic of China, Xi Jinping. This was reported by the news agency Orient.

During the talks, the parties confirmed the high level of strategic partnership and mutual political trust, emphasising the significant potential for expanding cooperation. The Chinese Leader expressed his readiness to actively explore opportunities for bilateral cooperation, including within the framework of the ‘Belt and Road Initiative’ and the concept of the ‘Revival of the Great Silk Road’.

Particular attention was paid to energy issues, in particular the development of cooperation in the gas sector. The prospects for expanding cooperation in non-resource sectors of the economy, including machine building and the textile industry, and improving the trade structure were also discussed.

The heads of State agreed to intensify humanitarian exchanges, promote the creation of cultural centres, strengthen ties in the field of education and expand international contacts. Security issues were also discussed, including cooperation in the field of cybersecurity.

The Chinese side expressed support for Turkmenistan's intentions to join the World Trade Organisation and positively assessed its efforts to strengthen regional stability as a neutral state.

Following the meeting, the parties took part in the signing ceremony of an intergovernmental agreement on economic and technical cooperation.