On 25 February 2026, the “Structural Dialogue” between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan and the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) of the United Kingdom officially opened at the FCDO headquarters.
The session featured keynote addresses by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Rashid Meredov, and the UK Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Hamish Falconer, reports the foreign ministry of Turkmenistan.
In his remarks, Minister Meredov underscored the steady progress of Turkmen-British relations and emphasized the strategic importance of this third round of the Structural Dialogue in advancing bilateral cooperation.
The parties noted the positive trajectory of political engagement and trade-economic ties. However, particular emphasis was placed on the necessity of maximizing untapped economic potential, specifically through the mechanisms of the Turkmen-British Trade and Industry Council (TBTIC).
Regarding education and culture, Turkmenistan highlighted a strong national interest in English language institutional capacity building. Interest was expressed in deepening partnerships with relevant British educational entities. It was further announced that several bilateral agreements in these sectors are slated for signing during the current visit.
Addressing the regional agenda, Minister Meredov stressed the critical importance of stabilizing Afghanistan. He highlighted Turkmenistan’s ongoing implementation of large-scale infrastructure projects designed to provide vital socio-economic support to the Afghan people. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to continued cooperation on regional security challenges.
The discussion also touched upon pressing global issues. The Turkmen side reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to the principles of the UN Charter and its policy of permanent neutrality, advocating for the peaceful, political, and diplomatic resolution of international disputes.
Following the high-level session, Rashid Meredov and Hamish Falconer signed the Cooperation Program between the Foreign Ministries of Turkmenistan and the United Kingdom for 2026–2027.
The Structural Dialogue continued later that day through specialized negotiations between heads of relevant departments from both nations. /// nCa, 25 February 2026