nCa Report
Turkmenistan took an active and multifaceted part in the Fifth Antalya Diplomatic Forum (ADF-2026), held on April 17–18, 2026, in Antalya, Türkiye. The Turkmen delegation was led by Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister of Foreign Affairs Rashid Meredov.
Hosted at the Nest Convention Center, the forum convened global leaders and policymakers under the theme “Planning the Future, Managing Uncertainty.” It served as a platform for dialogue on pressing international issues, including sustainable development, regional security, and economic cooperation.
Turkmenistan’s Strategic Messaging: Stability, Energy, and Connectivity
In a key thematic session titled “Joint Development: The Global Position of Central Asian States in the Context of the 35th Anniversary of Their Independence,” Meredov outlined Turkmenistan’s strategic vision for regional and global engagement.
Regional Stability and Political Dialogue
Turkmenistan emphasized that stability and security remain the foundation for Central Asia’s long-term development. The country highlighted the growing role of regional cooperation mechanisms, particularly the Consultative Meetings of Central Asian Heads of State—an initiative originally proposed by Turkmenistan and later expanded to include Azerbaijan.
Energy Security and Diversification
Energy diplomacy emerged as a central pillar of Turkmenistan’s message. The country reiterated its commitment to:
- Diversifying energy export routes
- Advancing major infrastructure projects such as the TAPI gas pipeline
- Expanding electricity exports
Turkmenistan stressed that its diversification policy is based on balancing the interests of producers, transit countries, and consumers.
The delegation also highlighted its leadership in global energy governance through the United Nations General Assembly, noting that three resolutions on energy sustainability were adopted at Turkmenistan’s initiative.
Transport and Logistics Connectivity
Turkmenistan underscored Central Asia’s role as a strategic transit hub linking East-West and North-South corridors. It called for stronger regional coordination to ensure the effective functioning of transport routes connecting Asia and Europe.
One of the key issues on Turkmenistan’s energy agenda is the supply of natural gas to European Union (EU) countries, said Turkmen Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov, speaking at the Antalya Diplomatic Forum.
“We also emphasize that one of the key priorities on Turkmenistan’s energy agenda is the supply of natural gas to Europe. I say this quite openly and confidently: 15-20 years ago, we had very good cooperation with our European colleagues, and we did much to practically implement a number of ideas for delivering Turkmen natural gas via the Caspian Sea to Europe,” the minister said.
Meredov noted the need to resolve certain international legal issues related to the delimitation of the Caspian Seabed in accordance with the convention on its legal status. “In the current geopolitical environment, security issues, including energy security, are becoming even more important. And we are ready to cooperate with all countries and all our partners to ensure security, making our capabilities available to all interested parties,” the minister emphasized.
Meredov also emphasized the need to ensure security in the transport sector. “Central Asia is a key transport hub on the East-West and North-South routes. To fully utilize our region’s logistics potential, we, the countries of the region, must join forces to ensure the effective operation of transport corridors linking Asia and Europe,” the minister explained.
He named the Trans-Caspian Corridor as one of the most important routes. “I am confident that our partners from other regions of the Eurasian continent will be ready to expand joint activities with the Central Asian states in the areas of transport and logistics,” Meredov noted.
Bilateral Diplomacy on the Sidelines
Beyond plenary discussions, Turkmenistan engaged in an intensive round of bilateral meetings, reinforcing its diplomatic outreach.
Türkiye: Deepening Strategic Partnership
In talks with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening political, economic, and legal cooperation. Turkmenistan also congratulated Türkiye on successfully hosting the forum.
Russia: Continued Strategic Alignment
A meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov confirmed both countries’ intention to further develop their longstanding strategic partnership.
Azerbaijan: Preparing for High-Level Engagement
Discussions with Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov focused on preparations for upcoming high-level visits and broader regional cooperation.
Uzbekistan: Expanding Comprehensive Cooperation
In talks with Uzbek Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov, both sides emphasized strong bilateral ties and discussed expanding cooperation across political, economic, cultural, and humanitarian fields.
Ukraine: Sustaining Bilateral Engagement
Meeting with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha, the Turkmen side reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining and developing cooperation, particularly in trade and humanitarian areas.
Multilateral and Institutional Cooperation
Engagement with the United Nations
In discussions with Miguel Ángel Moratinos, Turkmenistan highlighted its policy of permanent neutrality as a tool for promoting peace, intercultural dialogue, and mutual understanding. The country reaffirmed its commitment to global efforts aimed at fostering peaceful coexistence.
Cooperation with the CTBTO
A significant meeting was held with Robert Floyd of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization. Discussions focused on:
- Strengthening cooperation in nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament
- Expanding collaboration in international monitoring systems
- Enhancing scientific and technical capacity, including training specialists
The parties also explored the possibility of Turkmenistan hosting events marking the 30th anniversary of the Treaty.
Turkic Economic Cooperation
In talks with Adem Kula, Turkmenistan reviewed its growing role within the Union of Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Turkic States. Emphasis was placed on:
- Building joint production chains
- Expanding trade and industrial cooperation among Turkic countries
A Diplomacy of Balance and Connectivity
Turkmenistan’s participation in ADF-2026 demonstrated a carefully balanced foreign policy approach, combining:
- Regional leadership in Central Asia
- Active engagement with global institutions
- Pragmatic bilateral diplomacy
- Strategic focus on energy and transport connectivity
Anchored in its policy of neutrality, Turkmenistan positioned itself as a connector—geographically, economically, and diplomatically—between regions and partners. /// nCa, 20 April 2026