On 30–31 October 2026, the newly appointed (non-resident) Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of South Africa to Turkmenistan (with residence in Astana), Lungisani Dominic Ntombela, officially commenced his diplomatic mission in Ashgabat following key diplomatic engagements and the accreditation process.
The diplomatic proceedings began on October 30 at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, where Ambassador Ntombela met with Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs A. Gurbanov and presented a copy of his Letters of Credence.
During their discussion, both sides underscored the importance of consistently advancing Turkmen-South African relations grounded in mutual respect, equality, and constructive partnership.
They expressed a shared commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation by intensifying political dialogue, maintaining mutual visits at high and summit levels, and expanding collaboration within international venues—primarily the United Nations.
Particular emphasis was placed on broadening interparliamentary cooperation, including an initiative to establish an interparliamentary friendship group to promote mutual understanding and strengthen bilateral ties.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Deputy Minister Gurbanov congratulated the Ambassador on his appointment, wished him success, and assured him of the Foreign Ministry’s full support in carrying out his duties.
The accreditation process culminated on October 31, when Chairperson of the Mejlis D. Gulmanova received credentials from Ambassador Ntombela on behalf of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov.
In an official letter of credence addressed to President Berdimuhamedov, President of South Africa Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa formally presented Ambassador Ntombela, expressing confidence in his personal qualities to fulfill his mission with distinction and requesting full trust in his communications on behalf of South Africa.
Conveying warm greetings and best wishes from the South African leadership to President Berdimuhamedov, Ambassador Ntombela expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome on Turkmen soil. Chairperson Gulmanova congratulated the diplomat on behalf of the Turkmen head of state and wished him success in fostering friendly relations between the two nations.
During their meeting, Ambassador Ntombela was briefed on the structure and legislative activities of the Mejlis, as well as the priorities of Turkmenistan’s peace-loving foreign policy and international constructive initiatives.
The discussion highlighted opportunities for expanded cooperation in both bilateral and multilateral formats.
In closing, Ambassador Ntombela expressed that representing his country in Turkmenistan was a great honor and reaffirmed his dedicated commitment to advancing interstate relations. /// nCa, 2 November 2026