Representatives of the Ministry of Communications of Turkmenistan held online negotiations with the leadership of the Digital Cooperation Organisation (DCO). The parties discussed the development of their partnership, the establishment of a joint working group, attracting investment into the technology sector, support for start-ups and the creation of the ‘Central Asia–Europe’ digital corridor, according to IIC of Turkmenistan.

The Digital Cooperation Organisation was established in November 2020. Its headquarters are in Riyadh (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia). The DCO brings together the relevant ministries of communications and information technology from its member states. Deemah Al-Yahya serves as the organisation’s Secretary-General.

The DCO’s main areas of activity include reducing the digital divide, developing an inclusive digital economy, strengthening cybersecurity, and expanding technological opportunities for young people and entrepreneurs.

Cooperation with the organisation will enable Turkmenistan to learn from international experience in the field of digital transformation. Promising areas include improving e-government, introducing artificial intelligence technologies and supporting innovative entrepreneurship.

Following the negotiations, the Turkmen side invited representatives of the DCO to the ‘Turkmentel-2026’ international exhibition. For its part, the organisation intends to extend an invitation to Turkmenistan to attend the DCO Council of Ministers meeting, which is due to take place in March 2027 in Islamabad.