Overview The third edition of the Turkmenistan Investment Forum (TIF 2026) opened in Ashgabat on 1 October at the Ýyldyz Hotel, beginning a two-day programme intended to connect Turkmen government institutions and businesses with international investors, financial institutions, development banks and technology companies. The forum is organised by the Ministry of Finance … [Read more...]
A meeting with the Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan
On September 30, 2026, a meeting was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan between Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Myahri Byashimova and Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey to Turkmenistan Şener Cebeci. M. Byashimova wished Ambassador Şener Cebeci success in his diplomatic activities and expressed readiness for further constructive … [Read more...]
Meeting with the Ambassador of the Republic of Belarus to Turkmenistan was held
On 30 September 2026, a meeting was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan between the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Myahri Byashimova and the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Belarus to Turkmenistan Stanislav Chepurny. During the meeting, the parties discussed current issues of bilateral cooperation, in … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan’s migration service briefs diplomats on digitalization push
Turkmenistan's State Migration Service held a briefing on 30 September 2026 for the diplomatic corps on plans to modernize its operations and bring them in line with national and international law. Heads of Turkmen diplomatic missions abroad, along with heads and representatives of foreign missions accredited in Turkmenistan, attended. Officials outlined recent changes to … [Read more...]
The Many Faces of -Lateralism
nCa Context From One to All: The Changing Language of Modern Diplomacy When we think about global politics, we often picture massive rooms like the United Nations, where nearly every country in the world gathers to debate and vote. For a long time, this was the gold standard of global problem-solving. However, as the world becomes more complex, the ways countries talk … [Read more...]
The Middle Power Syndrome: Ambition, Asymmetry, and the Regional Traps of Self-Elevation
Tariq Saeedi In the evolving language of contemporary international relations, few terms are deployed with as much frequency, yet as little precision, as that of the "Middle Power." In an increasingly multipolar global landscape, a tier of states positioned beneath the global superpowers has sought to carve out a distinct strategic identity. Lacking a formal, globally … [Read more...]
Beyond the 2026 Midterms — Part Two: What the 2026 US Congressional Vote Means for Central Asian Trade and Diplomacy
Tariq Saeedi As political commentators focus heavily on the domestic fallout of the November 3, 2026 US midterm elections, international trade hubs and foreign ministries are quietly running a different set of calculations. For the C5+1 nations (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan), the shifting balance of power in Washington is not merely a … [Read more...]
Foreign Minister of Turkmenistan Discusses Innovation and Business Cooperation in Seoul
On the sidelines of the Turkmen-Korean Business Forum in Seoul on 15 September 2026, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Rashid Meredov, held a series of meetings with key representatives of the business and expert communities of the Republic of Korea, focusing on expanding bilateral socio-economic, scientific, and technological cooperation. During talks with … [Read more...]
Yonhap: Full text of op-ed by Foreign Minister Cho Hyun marking 1st S. Korea-Central Asia Summit
The following is the full text of an op-ed written by Foreign Minister Cho Hyun for Yonhap News Agency ahead of the first South Korea-Central Asia Summit. Moving Beyond the Silk Road, Toward the Future: New Horizons for the Korea-Central Asia Cooperation The First Korea-Central Asia Summit 2026 is to take place on September 16 in Seoul. It will be a historic occasion … [Read more...]
Exclusive: Interview with His Majesty’s Ambassador to Turkmenistan, Stephen Conlon
Stephen Conlon is His Majesty’s Ambassador to Turkmenistan since May 2023. With a BSc and an MBA, fluency in Russian, French, Finnish, and Lithuanian, and a rich portfolio of accomplishments that would be the envy of any diplomat, Ambassador Conlon is widely recognized as a pragmatic leader who delivers tangible results on the global stage. He has a proven ability to turn … [Read more...]
New Ambassador of France Presents Credentials to the President of Turkmenistan
On Wednesday, 9 September, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov received the newly appointed Ambassador of France to Turkmenistan, Ms. Aléna Grand, who presented her credentials to the head of state, TDH State News Agency reports. France attaches great importance to the further development of mutually beneficial cooperation with Turkmenistan, the diplomat noted, and taking the … [Read more...]
Time-tested friendship: Ashgabat marks 35th anniversary of Tajikistan’s Independence
On 8 September 2026, Ambassador Niyatbekzoda Vafo Alibek hosted a reception in Ashgabat to mark a milestone date — the 35th anniversary of Independence of Tajikistan. The event gathered members of the diplomatic corps, government agencies, and the public, standing as a vivid illustration of the growing bonds of good-neighborliness, mutual respect, and deep strategic partnership … [Read more...]
Newly Appointed Ambassador of Türkiye Presents Credentials to the President of Turkmenistan
On 28 August 2026, in Ashgabat, the newly appointed Ambassador of Türkiye, Şener Cebeci, presented his credentials to the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, TDH reports. Turkmenistan and the Republic of Türkiye are bound by the closest brotherly relations of a long-term, strategic nature, the Head of State emphasized while congratulating Şener Cebeci on his … [Read more...]
Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi to Visit Turkmenistan as Part of Four-Nation Diplomatic Tour
Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs Motegi Toshimitsu will undertake an official visit to Turkmenistan, Slovakia, Austria, and Mongolia from 29 August to 4 September 2026. The upcoming diplomatic tour was announced in a statement released by Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs). During his stop in Turkmenistan, Minister Motegi is scheduled to hold high-level bilateral … [Read more...]
EU Ambassador Beata Peksa Completes Diplomatic Mission in Turkmenistan
EU Ambassador to Turkmenistan Beata Peksa hosted a farewell reception in Ashgabat on the occasion of completing her diplomatic mission in the country. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Myahri Byashimova attended the event from the Turkmen side. In her address, Beata Peksa expressed gratitude to the leadership of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Government of … [Read more...]
Germany Is One of Turkmenistan’s Leading Partners in the EU, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov Says
On Monday, 24 August 2026, newly appointed Ambassador of Germany to Turkmenistan Petra Dachtler presented her credentials to President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov, reports the State News Agency of Turkmenistan (TDH). At the beginning of the meeting, Ambassador Dachtler conveyed greetings to President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and the National Leader of the Turkmen … [Read more...]
Visa Waiver for Diplomats and Integration Experience: Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Belgium Meets with Benelux Secretary-General
Turkmenistan calls on the Benelux countries to consider introducing a mutual visa waiver regime for holders of diplomatic and service passports against the backdrop of dynamically developing cooperation between the EU and Turkmenistan. This was discussed at a meeting between the Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Belgium, Sapar Palvanov, and the Secretary-General of the Benelux … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan discusses cooperation and Caspian environmental agenda with UN, EU, OSCE, and IOM
On 12 August, Foreign Minister of Turkmenistan Rashid Meredov held a series of meetings in Awaza with representatives of international organizations and the diplomatic community accredited in the country. Discussions centered on international and regional cooperation, security, migration, and the environmental sustainability of the Caspian region. In particular, Meredov met … [Read more...]
Turkmen Delegation Inspects Preparations for World Championship for Equestrian Sports and Beauty of Akhal-Teke Horses at Peelbergen
As part of its working visit to the Netherlands, a Turkmen delegation, led by Tangryguly Atahallyyev, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan, visited the Peelbergen Equestrian Centre in Kronenberg and reviewed the venues and facilities for the forthcoming international event – the World Championship for Equestrian Sports and Beauty of Akhal-Teke … [Read more...]
Turkmen delegation discussed with the Governor of Limburg preparations for an international equestrian event in the Netherlands
In Maastricht, Netherlands, a Turkmen delegation led by Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers Tangryguly Atahallyyev met with the King’s Commissioner, Governor of Limburg Province Emile Roemer, the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Belgium reported. At the beginning of the visit, the Governor briefed the Turkmen delegation on the Limburg Provincial Administration … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan’s 81st UNGA Positions: Institution-Building Enters a Denser Phase
Elvira Kadyrova and Liliya Zhirnova On 24 July 2026, the UN General Assembly adopted, by consensus and with 78 co-sponsors, the Turkmenistan-initiated resolution "Year of International Law, 2028." At a Cabinet of Ministers meeting in Ashgabat, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov presented the country's Priority Positions for the upcoming 81st session … [Read more...]
Kristin Hawkins has been appointed the Chargé d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Ashgabat
Kristin Hawkins has been appointed the Chargé d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan since July 2026, according to the Embassy. She is a career Foreign Service Officer, and she served as the U.S. Consul General in Lahore, Pakistan from 2023 to 2025. Since joining the Foreign Service in 2011, Ms. Hawkins’ other positions have included: Ms. … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan and United States Mark Independence Anniversaries with Diplomatic and Cultural Events in Washington
The Embassy of Turkmenistan in the United States, in partnership with the Permanent Mission of Turkmenistan to the United Nations, held a series of diplomatic and cultural events in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area on July 17–18, celebrating the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan's independence alongside the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence. The centerpiece of the … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan and Kenya Aim to Boost Cooperation: New Ambassador Presents Credentials in Ashgabat
Turkmenistan and Kenya have reaffirmed their commitment to advancing bilateral political dialogue and expanding trade and economic ties. The official accreditation ceremony for the newly appointed head of the Kenyan diplomatic mission took place in Ashgabat. On behalf of President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov, Speaker of the Mejlis (Parliament) D. Gulmanova … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Ambassador Meets U.S. Senator Steve Daines in Washington
Ambassador of Turkmenistan to the United States Esen Aydogdyyev held a meeting with U.S. Senator Steve Daines at the Senator's office in Washington, D.C., the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Washington confirmed. According to the Embassy, the two sides discussed ways to further strengthen bilateral relations between Turkmenistan and the United States across a broad range of … [Read more...]
A meeting with the Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan
On June 24, 2026, a meeting was held between the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Rashid Meredov and the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Federal Republic of Germany to Turkmenistan Bernd Heins, who is completing his diplomatic mission in the country. During the conversation, the parties discussed current issues of cooperation and priority areas … [Read more...]
Meeting of Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Georgia with Minister of Internal Affairs of Georgia
On 19 June 2026, a meeting took place between Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Georgia D.Seyitmammedov with Minister of Internal Affairs of Georgia S.Tamazashvili. At the beginning of the meeting, the Ambassador congratulated his interlocutor on his appointment as Minister of Internal Affairs and wished him success in his future work. During the conversation, … [Read more...]
Beyond Blocs: Turkmenistan’s Quiet Diplomacy in a Fractured World
Tariq Saeedi and Elvira Kadyrova There is a certain kind of diplomatic activity that attracts little headline attention precisely because it is consistent, measured, and free of drama. No ultimatums. No bloc posturing. No zero-sum calculations announced with fanfare. --- Turkmenistan's foreign policy tends to operate in this register — and in a period when geopolitical noise … [Read more...]
Foreign Minister of Turkmenistan Holds Meetings with UN Secretary-General and High-Level Officials in New York
Turkmenistan’s strategic partnership with the UN and the promotion of Ashgabat’s key initiatives in preventive diplomacy, security, and sustainable development were the central themes of a series of talks held in New York by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Rashid Meredov, with UN Secretary-General António Guterres, Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding … [Read more...]
Foreign Ministers of Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan Hold Meeting in New York
On 26 May 2026, as part of his working visit to New York, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Rashid Meredov, met with his Azerbaijani counterpart, Minister Jeyhun Bayramov. During the meeting, the sides highlighted the role and significance of high-level mutual visits and contacts in further developing bilateral ties, which are built upon the relations of … [Read more...]
Peace through Development and Dialogue: Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Spoke at the UN Security Council High-Level Open Debate
On 26 May 2026, in New York, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Rashid Meredov, took part in a high-level open debate entitled “Upholding the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and strengthening the UN-centered international system”, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan reports. Turkmenistan was invited to the debate by the Minister of Foreign … [Read more...]
Concept of Turkmenistan’s Chairmanship in the CIS in 2026 Circulated as an Official Document of the UN General Assembly
The Concept of the Chairmanship of Turkmenistan in the Commonwealth of Independent States in 2026 has been published and circulated as an official document of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly under agenda item 126 entitled “Cooperation between the United Nations and regional and other organizations” with the symbol A/80/722. The circulation of this … [Read more...]
White House Hosts Credential Presentation Ceremony for Turkmen Ambassador
An official meeting took place in Washington on May 21, 2026, during which Turkmenistan’s Ambassador Esen Aydogdyyev presented his Letters of Credence to U.S. President Donald J. Trump at the White House. During the ceremony, the diplomat and Trump exchanged warm greetings and best wishes on behalf of the top leadership of Turkmenistan and the United States. The meeting was … [Read more...]
UN General Assembly Unanimously Adopts Turkmenistan-Initiated Resolution on Neutrality
On 20 May 2026, the Resolution “The Role and Importance of a Policy of Neutrality in Maintaining and Strengthening International Peace, Security and Sustainable Development” was unanimously adopted during the 82nd plenary meeting of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly. The Resolution was initiated by Turkmenistan and co-sponsored by 47 … [Read more...]
UNRCCA highlights Preventive Diplomacy and Regional Cooperation at International Conference in Tashkent
On 14 May 2026, in Tashkent, UNRCCA participated in the international conference “Central Asia: A New Paradigm of Regional Development,” organized in a hybrid format by the Diplomatic Academy at the University of World Economy and Diplomacy (UWED) in partnership with the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan. The … [Read more...]
The Beating Heart: How China Brings Human Warmth to the World’s Largest Economic Partnership
Tariq Saeedi Introduction When analysts examine China's remarkable ascent as the world's most sought-after development partner, they reach instinctively for the tools of macroeconomics: financing volumes, construction timelines, trade balances, and debt ratios. These metrics matter enormously, and they tell a compelling story. But they tell only part of it. Beneath … [Read more...]
The Question Before the Answer: Diplomacy and the Power of Words
Tariq Saeedi I once knew someone who was, simultaneously, my mentor and my tormentor. He had a habit of teaching through ambush. One afternoon, after a long stretch of silence between us, he shifted in his seat and said, almost casually, “We should not kill the horse in the afternoon.” The remark landed without context, abrupt and unsettling. I took the bait. “When … [Read more...]
Dynamic Triangular Partnership: Rethinking Diplomacy in an Unstable World
Tariq Saeedi For much of modern diplomatic history, the world has been explained through bilateral relationships. Two countries sign agreements, build pipelines, exchange goods, and manage tensions. The simplicity of this model has always been its strength—and its limitation. That world no longer exists. We now live in an era where connectivity is instantaneous, supply … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan Align on 2025 Achievements and Set Plans for 2026
On 29 December 2025, a telephone conversation took place between the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, and the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, as reported by Turkmenistan's State News Agency (TDH). During the call, the sides exchanged New Year's greetings, reviewed the progress in bilateral cooperation throughout the outgoing … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan’s Foreign Minister Reviews the Year: UN General Assembly Adopts New Resolutions on Energy and Transport Initiated by Turkmenistan
At the ceremony “International Year of Peace and Trust: Confident Steps of Neutral Turkmenistan,” organized by the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan in Ashgabat on 25 Dec 2025, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister of Foreign Affairs Rashid Meredov delivered a keynote speech. The Minister emphasized that 2025 has become a landmark year in the history of … [Read more...]
National Day of Qatar celebrated in Ashgabat
The Ambassador of the State of Qatar to Turkmenistan Nasser Ahmed Mohammed Al-Taher hosted a celebration on Monday, 15 December 2025, to mark the National Day of Qatar. Minister for Trade of Foreign Economic Relations Nazar Agahanov attended the reception as a guest of honor from Turkmenistan government. In his speech, the Ambassador noted the role of the founder of … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan and the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe Establish Diplomatic Relations
On 11 December 2025, a ceremony to sign the Protocol on the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between Turkmenistan and the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe took place in Ashgabat. The document was signed by the Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan, Minister of Foreign Affairs Rashid Meredov, and the Minister of Health of the … [Read more...]
The National Leader of Turkmenistan held meetings with foreign leaders and high-ranking guests.
On 11 December 2025, National Leader of the Turkmen people Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov held a number of bilateral meetings with the Presidents and Prime Ministers of foreign countries participating in the International Forum of Peace and Trust. He also had a telephone conversation with the President of Azerbaijan. Kyrgyzstan At the meeting with Kyrgyz President Sadyr … [Read more...]
The President of Turkmenistan met with the heads of state and government of foreign countries
On 11 December 2025, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov held bilateral meetings with his foreign colleagues and heads of government of foreign countries who arrived at the International Forum dedicated to the International Year of Peace and Trust and the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's Permanent Neutrality. Among the high-ranking participants: Kazakhstan, … [Read more...]
National Leader of Turkmenistan has bilateral meetings on the sidelines of International Events
On the sidelines of the International Forum "The Role of Women in Modern Society: Developing International Cooperation to Achieve the Sustainable Development Goals" held in the Avaza National Tourist Zone, and the International Conference on Neutrality, scheduled for 12 December 2025 in Ashgabat, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslakhaty, … [Read more...]
International Forum in Awaza: Women – the Key Link in Sustainable Development and International Cooperation
Elvira Kadyrova, Raviliya Kadyrova, Liliya Zhirnova On 11 December 2025, in the National Tourist Zone of Awaza of Turkmenistan, the International Conference "The Role of Women in Modern Society: Developing International Cooperation for Sustainable Development" took place. The conference was organized jointly with the United Nations, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the … [Read more...]
Women, Diplomacy, and Neutrality: Turkmenistan Hosts International Conference
Elvira Kadyrova at Awaza, Liliya Zhirnova in Ashgabat AVAZA, Turkmenistan — Against the backdrop of the Caspian Sea's turquoise waters, the resort town of Avaza is hosting an international conference that brings together government ministers, foundation leaders, and civil society representatives from across continents. The two-day gathering, focused on "The Role of Women … [Read more...]
President of Turkmenistan visits Uzbekistan
President Serdar Berdimuhamedov of Turkmenistan is on a two-day state visit to Uzbekistan, 16-17 November 2025. The visit coincides with the 7th meeting of the Council of the Heads of State of Central Asia that took place on 16 November 2025. The main content of the visit will take place on 17 November 2025. In addition to the other planned activities, there would be … [Read more...]
Celebrating the Human Essence of Neutrality: Turkmenistan’s 30 Years of Impartial Wisdom
Tariq Saeedi As the world turns its eyes toward Ashgabat this December 12, 2025, for the grand international conference commemorating the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's permanent neutrality, it's hard not to feel a spark of optimism amid the usual chaos of global affairs. Heads of state and government from across the globe are set to gather in the Turkmen capital, not … [Read more...]
Embassy of China in Turkmenistan hosts event “For the Sino-Turkmen Friendship—Together Towards the Future”
On November 14, 2025, a friendly event "For the Sino-Turkmen Friendship—Together Towards the Future" was jointly organized by the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Turkmenistan, the Center for Support of the Disabled of Turkmenistan, and the NGO "Ýenme" of Turkmenistan. The event was attended by Chinese Ambassador Ji Shumin and diplomats from the Embassy, … [Read more...]