A meeting of construction ministers in the “Central Asia – China” format is being held in Bishkek from 11 to 13 November 2026. Turkmenistan is represented at the event by a delegation led by Minister of Construction and Architecture A. Geldiyev, the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan reports.

Participants are discussing ways to expand cooperation in construction, architecture, urban planning and infrastructure modernisation, as well as opportunities for implementing joint projects.

Speaking at the meeting, the head of the Turkmen ministry highlighted the importance of further strengthening multilateral cooperation. He noted that regular exchanges of experience between relevant ministries help identify practical solutions to shared challenges.

One of the key topics on the agenda is the implementation of the Beijing Initiative, adopted in November 2025 following the first meeting of construction ministers in Beijing. The document established a framework for expanding partnership in the fields of construction and urban development.

The Turkmen side outlined key areas for further joint efforts. These include improving the quality of housing construction, promoting the sustainable development of cities and settlements, introducing digital and environmentally friendly technologies, facilitating scientific and technical exchanges, training qualified specialists and strengthening business ties.

The meeting also featured an overview of the development of Turkmenistan’s construction sector and infrastructure modernisation under national and state socio-economic development programmes.

The city of Arkadag was highlighted as an example of the application of modern urban planning solutions. The country’s first “smart city” was built on the initiative of Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, National Leader of the Turkmen People and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan. The architectural and digital technologies employed in the city, together with its integrated approach to urban infrastructure development, offer valuable opportunities for regional exchange of experience.

Participants are also considering prospects for cooperation in earthquake-resistant construction, the design of modern cities, the introduction of intelligent urban infrastructure management systems and the development of public spaces.

The meeting’s agenda also includes draft documents: an Action Plan for the Development of Cooperation in the Construction Sector for 2027–2028 and a 2026 Joint Statement on Construction.

Turkmenistan reaffirmed its readiness to continue dialogue within the “Central Asia – China” format, honour previously reached agreements and expand mutually beneficial cooperation in construction, architecture and urban planning.