A meeting was held at the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan between Deputy Minister of Education Azat Atayev and a delegation from the Chinese Ministry of Education, comprising representatives from relevant departments and the Centre for Language Cooperation. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan.

The parties discussed the current state and prospects of bilateral cooperation, noting its development on the basis of previously reached agreements, including the ‘Central Asia–China’ format.

China expressed its readiness to expand cooperation: to develop language training, provide scholarships, and establish joint laboratories and educational platforms within the framework of the ‘Belt and Road’ initiative. Particular attention was paid to language cooperation – Chinese is already being taught in schools and universities in Turkmenistan, and work by teachers from the PRC continues.

The Turkmen side advocated for deeper cooperation, including increasing the number of teachers, introducing the ‘language + profession’ format, developing the HSK exam, and the possible opening of a specialised centre. Interest was also expressed in China’s experience of administering the Gaokao exam.

New areas were also discussed – artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and vocational education. Turkmenistan proposed implementing joint projects, including scientific research and the establishment of laboratories, with a focus on priority areas – from AI to ‘green’ energy.

Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their intention to strengthen cooperation and continue consultations. The meeting took place in a constructive atmosphere.