The concept of Turkmenistan’s chairmanship of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) in 2026, along with the corresponding action plan, was presented in Minsk during a meeting of the Council of Permanent Plenipotentiary Representatives of the CIS member states.
The document was detailed by the Permanent Representative of Turkmenistan to the CIS statutory and other bodies, Ambassador to Belarus Nazarguly Shagulyev. He emphasized that the priority pillars of the upcoming chairmanship are peace, neutrality, and trust. Key focus areas include economic cooperation, transport interconnectivity, humanitarian and cultural ties, ecology, digital transformation, and innovative development.
Upholding International Law
“The CIS chairmanship can serve as a tool to advance these objectives within the Commonwealth, strengthening integration processes,” the diplomat stated.
According to Shagulyev, Turkmenistan places significant importance on consolidating international efforts to observe and protect recognized international legal norms and the UN Charter. To this end, Turkmenistan has already proposed an initiative at the UN General Assembly to declare 2028 the Year of International Law.
“CIS states are called upon to play a worthy role in defending international law, utilizing the General Assembly resolution ‘Cooperation between the UN and the CIS’ adopted in August 2025,” noted the Ambassador.
In this regard, Turkmenistan intends to propose that CIS partners develop a coordinated diplomatic line at the UN to protect international law from “erosion and devaluation.” Ashgabat maintains that sustainable development is only possible through trust and security; thus, the chairmanship will emphasize “trust diplomacy” and the creation of a stable system of regional contacts.
Economy and Transport
The development of mutually beneficial economic ties remains a core pillar of CIS interaction. Turkmenistan plans to use its chairmanship to promote initiatives aimed at expanding the shared economic and transport space.
A key priority is enhancing transport connectivity across the Commonwealth, creating conditions to fully unlock the logistical and infrastructural potential of member states. Consequently, Turkmenistan will propose declaring 2027 the CIS Year of Transport Connectivity.
Humanitarian and Cultural Ties
The diplomat noted that the humanitarian dimension is essential for sustainable interaction. Cooperation in education, science, culture, sports, and media contributes to mutual understanding and the preservation of spiritual heritage.
Priorities for the current year include supporting projects in science and youth exchanges, developing media cooperation, and promoting a positive image of the CIS globally while encouraging multilingualism and intercultural dialogue.
Ecology and the Green Economy
Attention will also be directed toward solving environmental problems and developing a “green” economy. Amid climate change and rising ecological risks, Turkmenistan advocates for intensified CIS cooperation in environmental protection.
Digitalization and Innovation
“Technological and innovative components are vital factors for the economic dynamism of the CIS. The current stage of global development requires strengthened cooperation in the digital sphere,” Shagulyev stated, adding that Turkmenistan intends to boost projects in digitalization and scientific-technical interaction.
Goal: Establishing the CIS as a Zone of Stability
The Ambassador emphasized that Turkmenistan’s 2026 chairmanship will be a milestone in strengthening unity, pragmatism, and trust. Implementing these initiatives will deepen integration, enhance the international prestige of the CIS, and solidify the region as a zone of stability and creative partnership.
“Turkmenistan remains convinced that the CIS is a significant regional platform uniting states linked by history, culture, language, and shared interests in ensuring peace and prosperity,” Shagulyev concluded.
/// nCa, 29 January 2026 (Based on materials from the CIS Executive Committee)