On 15 February 2026, a meeting was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran between the Ambassador of Turkmenistan in the Islamic Republic of Iran, Ylyas Gayypov, and the Deputy Foreign Minister of Iran for Political Affairs, Majid Takhtravanchi. During the meeting, which took place in a friendly atmosphere, the parties discussed issues … [Read more...]
Iran Unveils Major Container Terminal at Sarakhs border with Turkmenistan to Boost Central Asia Trade Links
Iran has established a significant new container transport complex at Sarakhs, a strategic border town with Turkmenistan in northeastern Iran, positioning the Islamic Republic as a crucial transit hub between China, Central Asia, and Europe, according to recent reports. The terminal, currently being constructed by China on the Iran-Turkmenistan border, marks a major … [Read more...]
Embassy of Iran in Turkmenistan hosts reception to mark 47th anniversary of revolution
The embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran hosted a reception on 10 February 2026 to mark the 47th anniversary of the Victory of the Islamic Revolution of Iran and the National Day of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Here is a truncated version of the speech of Ambassador Ali Mojtaba Rouzbehani: I am honored to welcome you, distinguished guests, on the occasion of the … [Read more...]
Iran’s 2026 Unrest: An Independent Observer’s Analysis
Tariq Saeedi As an independent observer with a keen interest in Central Asia and broader regional affairs, I have closely examined the three reports issued by Iran's High Council for Human Rights in January 2026. These documents provide a detailed perspective on the tumultuous events that unfolded in Iran. This is obviously, point of view of the state, framing them not as … [Read more...]
From the Caspian to the Persian Gulf: Kazakhstan and Iran Advance Logistics Projects
Elvira Kadyrova Astana and Tehran are intensifying efforts to strengthen transport and logistics links, positioning Iran as a key gateway for Kazakhstan. In a recent meeting, Kazakhstan’s Ambassador to Iran Ontalap Onalbayev discussed expanding bilateral connectivity with Iran's Minister of Roads and Urban Development Farzaneh Sadegh. According to Kazakhstan's Foreign … [Read more...]
Abatement of situation in Iran affords some clarity
Tariq Saeedi As of 16 January 2026, there is peace and some semblance of normalcy in the streets of Iran. With this abatement, more information has become available. This affords some clarity. In an Op-Ed, published on 15 January 2026, I wrote: “When the entire system becomes the target, a significant portion of the population—those who align with the government’s … [Read more...]
From Economic Pain to Narrative Conflict in Iran
Tariq Saeedi As the world watches the unfolding events in Iran with a mix of concern and speculation, it's easy to get lost in the cacophony of international commentary. The recent protests, which erupted in late December 2025, have once again thrust the Islamic Republic into the global spotlight, highlighting deep-seated economic frustrations and the ever-present shadow … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Coast Guard Rescues 14 from Sinking Iranian Vessel
On 14 January 2026, in a swift maritime operation, Turkmenistan’s coastal services rescued more than a dozen crew members from a distressed Iranian cargo ship in the Caspian Sea. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan reported that the emergency began when the coast guard intercepted an SOS signal from the Rona, an Iranian-flagged dry cargo vessel. Following the … [Read more...]
Iran Situation – Need to Deconstruct the Matrix
Tariq Saeedi The discontent curdled into frustration and frustration morphed into anger. --- This is the description of the Iran situation in one sentence. It started rather peacefully in Tehran when the shopkeepers and merchants (Bazaari Class) in Grand Bazar, also known as Tehran Bazar, staged a peaceful strike on 28 December 2025. The things snowballed rather fast … [Read more...]
Airspace of Iran
nCa Report Key Points Overview of Traffic and Revenue Iran's airspace serves as a vital link for global aviation, but the 2025 conflict introduced uncertainties. Current estimates indicate recovery toward pre-conflict levels, with fees supporting infrastructure. For details, see sources like Safe Airspace and OPS Group. Diversion Implications Diversions during … [Read more...]
Iran and Turkmenistan Entitled to Share of Harirud River Water, Says Iranian Energy Minister
Iran's Energy Minister Abbas Aliabadi has stated that Iran and Turkmenistan have legitimate rights to water from the Harirud River, which flows through Afghanistan, and that negotiations are needed to secure these rights. According to IRNA report, Aliabadi emphasized: "Our country and Turkmenistan have a rightful share of the Harirud River's water. However, the upstream … [Read more...]
Importance of Iran as Transit Territory
nCa Report Iran serves as a critical transit hub connecting the Middle East, Central Asia, South Asia, the Caucasus, and Europe through a network of land, rail, and sea routes. Its strategic location facilitates the efficient movement of goods, supporting regional trade and economic integration. Over the last three years (2023-2025), Iran's transit infrastructure has seen … [Read more...]
Belarus Launches Accelerated Rail Route to Iran via Russia and Central Asia
Elvira Kadyrova The largest logistics operator in Belarus, “Beltamozhservice”, has announced the launch of an accelerated container rail service for cargo delivery to Iran. The new route follows the eastern branch of the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) through Belarus, Russia, Kazakhstan, and Turkmenistan. Delivery time is just 13–15 days, making it … [Read more...]
Authentic Outcomes of Neutrality Conference in Ashgabat – Part Three
The Conversation Heard Around the World: What Ashgabat Promises Generation Beta Tariq Saeedi and Elvira Kadyrova As the final echoes of speeches faded in Ashgabat on December 12, 2025, what lingered was not merely diplomatic courtesy but something far more significant: the dawning recognition that active, dynamic neutrality is not a relic of 20th-century idealism but a … [Read more...]
Authentic Outcomes of Neutrality Conference in Ashgabat – Part Two
Turkmenistan's Neutrality as a Catalyst for Regional and Global Integration Tariq Saeedi and Elvira Kadyrova The Neutrality Advantage: A Unique Convening Power Turkmenistan's 30-year commitment to permanent neutrality, internationally recognized by the UN in 1995, 2015, and 2025, has created a distinctive diplomatic asset: the ability to bring together nations that … [Read more...]
Pezeshkian Calls for Rethinking Peace, Citing Inequality as Root of War at Neutrality Forum in Ashgabat
Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, the President of Iran, addressed the inaugural session of the international conference on neutrality, held on 12 December 2025 in Ashgabat. The conference was the flagship event, marking the 30th anniversary of the permanent neutrality of Turkmenistan. This is also the year of peace and trust, as declared by the UN under a resolution initiated by … [Read more...]
On the Sidelines of Neutrality Conference in Ashgabat: Arkadag-Pezeshkian Meeting
ASHGABAT — Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian met with Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, Turkmenistan's former president and current National Leader, on Thursday evening, emphasizing the need for enhanced global cooperation amid what both leaders described as unprecedented international challenges. The meeting followed Mr. Pezeshkian's arrival from Kazakhstan for the … [Read more...]
On the Sidelines of Neutrality Conference in Ashgabat: Putin-Pezeshkian Meeting
ASHGABAT — President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia and President Masoud Pezeshkian of Iran met here on Friday to accelerate implementation of their comprehensive strategic partnership, with both leaders emphasizing mutual support against Western sanctions. The meeting on the sidelines of an international peace forum highlighted growing economic ties between Moscow and … [Read more...]
What significance does Turkmenistan’s neutrality policy hold for Iran?
Ali Mojtaba Rouzbahani, Ambassador of Iran to Turkmenistan Tehran, IRNA – Turkmenistan, Iran’s northeastern neighbor, has upheld a policy of “positive neutrality” for decades, an approach that has helped regional countries, including Iran, safeguard border security, expand energy cooperation, and strengthen overall regional stability. Adopted after Turkmenistan gained … [Read more...]
Caspian Governors Meet in Rasht to Forge ‘Bridge for Friendship and Regional Development’
The inaugural Meeting of Governors of Coastal Provinces of the Caspian Sea Littoral States opened on Tuesday (18 Nov) in Rasht, the capital of Iran’s northern Gilan province, under the motto “Caspian: A Bridge for Friendship and Regional Development.” Hosted by Iran, the two-day forum brought together governors and high-level delegations from all five Caspian littoral … [Read more...]
First train on Russia-Iran cargo route covers 4000km in 12 days
On 8 November 2025, a milestone unfolded in the sphere of Eurasian trade when the first scheduled freight train from Russia pulled into Iran's Aprin dry port, right on the outskirts of Tehran. This wasn't some random shipment; it was a carefully coordinated effort that had been in the works to strengthen ties between Moscow and Tehran, especially amid ongoing global tensions … [Read more...]
Trade, Tourism, Investment: Turkmenistan and Iran Discuss Diversifying Partnership
In recent days, key meetings at the diplomatic and regional levels have been held in Turkmenistan and Iran, aimed at deepening bilateral relations. The parties discussed expanding trade, economic, cultural, humanitarian, and tourism cooperation, including new initiatives to facilitate travel, investment, and joint projects along the Silk Road. On 5 November, Deputy Foreign … [Read more...]
The fourth Meeting of the Ministers of Internal Affairs of the Economic Cooperation Organization was held
On October 28, 2025, the fourth Meeting of the Ministers of Internal Affairs of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) was held in Tehran, the capital of the Islamic Republic of Iran. The delegation of Turkmenistan, headed by the Minister of Internal Affairs Muhammet Hydyrov participated in the meeting. The opening ceremony was attended by the President of the … [Read more...]
ECO Interior Ministers Convene in Tehran After 15-Year Hiatus: Regional Security and Economic Integration Take Center Stage
nCa Report Overview The fourth meeting of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) Interior Ministers concluded in Tehran on October 28, 2025, marking a significant milestone after a 15-year hiatus. The summit, held at the Summit Conference Hall, brought together ministers and senior officials from ten member states and adopted the Tehran Declaration, outlining … [Read more...]
Activating Interregional Cooperation Between Turkmenistan and Iran
A national conference on investment opportunities was held in Bojnurd city, North Khorasan Province. The conference featured speeches by Iran’s Vice President Jafar Gaempanah, Governor of North Khorasan Province Bahman Nuri, Turkmenistan’s Ambassador to Iran, members of the Majlis, and other officials. There was also a meeting between the Turkmenistan’s Ambassador … [Read more...]
Tehran celebrates Turkmenistan Independence Day with a colorful ceremony
On 27 September 2025, a flag-raising ceremony of Turkmenistan was held at Azadi Square in Tehran, the Islamic Republic of Iran. During the ceremony, the National Anthem of Turkmenistan was performed, along with the song of the National Leader of the Turkmen People, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Hero Arkadag, entitled "Öňe, öňe, diňe öňe jan Watan … [Read more...]
Ashgabat Hosts Meeting of the Working Group on Caspian Sea Issues
On 15 September 2025, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan launched the eleventh session of the High-Level Working Group (HLWG) on Caspian Sea issues. Delegations from Turkmenistan (headed by M.G. Atajanov), the Republic of Azerbaijan (headed by S.A. Sharifov), the Islamic Republic of Iran (headed by K.G. Abadi), the Republic of Kazakhstan (headed by Z.A. … [Read more...]
Iran Aims to Increase Cargo Transit with Turkmenistan to 20 Million Tons
From September 6 to 8, 2025, a delegation from Turkmenistan, led by Minister of Railway Transport Mammet Akmammedov, visited Iran. The delegation held talks with Iran's Minister of Roads and Urban Development, Farzaneh Sadegh, and the head of the Islamic Republic of Iran Railways, Jabbar Ali-Zakeri, according to IRNA news agency. The discussions focused on expanding … [Read more...]
Iran Seeks to Boost Electricity Imports from Turkmenistan
Iran is set to explore a significant increase in electricity imports from Turkmenistan, following a key meeting between top energy officials. According to Iranian media, a three-party meeting was held with the participation of Iran's Minister of Energy, the CEO of TAVANIR (Iran's Power Generation and Distribution Company), and a member of the Islamic Consultative Assembly. … [Read more...]
President of Turkmenistan Meets with First Vice President of Iran
As part of the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov held a meeting with Mohammad Reza Aref, First Vice President of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Mr. Aref expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to hold the meeting and congratulated the Turkmen side on the successful organization of this … [Read more...]
Iran to Launch Three New Rail Connections to Neighboring Countries
Iran is set to introduce three new railway routes connecting to neighboring countries, aiming to enhance regional rail travel, according to Jabbar Ali Zakeri, CEO of Iran’s National Railway Company (RAJA) and deputy minister of roads and urban development. As reported by Mehr News, the new routes will link Iran with Turkey, Afghanistan, and Turkmenistan. Zakeri announced … [Read more...]
Iran Exports Premium Cow Embryos to Africa and Central Asia
Sina Fanavaran Mandegar, an Iranian company, has secured contracts to export premium cow embryos to African and Central Asian countries, announced managing director Muhammad Mehdi Naderi. As reported by Keyhan International, the company, linked to Iran’s Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research, has launched the country’s largest in vitro fertilization (IVF) embryo … [Read more...]
Iranian FM visited Turkmenistan
On June 23, 2025, the visit of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran Seyed Abbas Araghchi to Turkmenistan took place. On the same day, a meeting was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan where the foreign ministers of Turkmenistan and Iran discussed a wide range of bilateral cooperation issues. The sides exchanged views on … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Facilitates Safe Transit for Foreign Citizens Amid Regional Developments
With Turkmenistan’s assistance, approximately 4,000 persons have successfully returned to their home countries from Iran. The country remains committed to ensuring the smooth and unhindered transit of foreign nationals departing Iran through established humanitarian corridors. As of today, 52 nations have sought Turkmenistan’s support in repatriating their citizens due to … [Read more...]
Consistent IAEA stance on Iranian nuclear programme deserves serious attention
Tariq Saeedi When I was researching for my previous article ‘Responsive Neutrality of Turkmenistan and Urgent Responsibility of World Community,’ the consistent stance of the IAEA Chief Grossi caught my attention. Reuters reported on 7 October 2024 that Grossi urged all parties to exercise “utmost restraint” regarding Iran’s nuclear facilities, warning that attacks on … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan continues to provide humanitarian support for people arriving from Iran
Turkmenistan provides a 24-hour humanitarian corridor for foreign citizens arriving from Iran. As of today, hundreds of people from India, China, Pakistan and other countries have crossed the border through the checkpoints of Turkmenistan. The Turkmen authorities are ensuring the transit of these citizens and facilitating their return to their homeland. This work is … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan provides humanitarian aid to foreign citizens arriving from Iran
In connection with the current situation in the Middle East, Turkmenistan is taking immediate measures to provide its territory for exit to foreign diplomats and members of their families, as well as other citizens currently in Iran. As of today, about 120 people from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Romania and other countries have crossed the state border of … [Read more...]
Meeting of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan with the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran
On June 14, 2025, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Rashid Meredov met with Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Turkmenistan Ali Mojtaba Rouzbahani at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. During the meeting, the Foreign Minister emphasized that Turkmenistan is concerned about the tension in the Middle East and … [Read more...]
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan expressed concern over the escalation of tension in the Middle East
Information from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan to the media: In connection with the Israeli missile strikes on settlements and facilities in Iran, carried out on June 13, 2025, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan make the following statement: The Turkmen side expresses concern about the current escalation of tension in the Middle … [Read more...]
Pakistan to launch freight train to Russia via INSTC
Pakistan will inaugurate its first freight train service to Russia from Lahore, the capital of Pakistan's eastern Punjab province, on June 22, marking a significant step in regional connectivity and international trade expansion, Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi said. Addressing a press conference in the city of Multan, Punjab, on Tuesday, Abbasi said the new … [Read more...]
Presidents of Turkmenistan and Iran Hold Telephone Conversation
On 5 June 2025, a telephone conversation took place between President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov and President of Iran Masoud Pezeshkian. The heads of state exchanged congratulations on the sacred holiday of Eid al-Adha. Noting the great importance Iran places on strengthening multifaceted cooperation with Turkmenistan, President Pezeshkian extended warm … [Read more...]
Meredov’s Tehran Visit: Broadening Turkmen-Iranian Cooperation from Economy to Energy
DPM, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Rashid Meredov is on a visit to Tehran to participate in the 18th meeting of the Joint Economic Commission of the two countries and the Tehran Dialogue Forum. During the visit, Meredov held a series of high-level meetings where various aspects of Turkmen-Iranian relations were discussed. Meeting of the Minister of Foreign … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan’s Foreign Minister Participates in Tehran Dialogue Forum 2025
On May 18-19, 2025, the Tehran Dialogue Forum 2025 was held in Tehran, organized by the Center for Political and International Studies under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Rashid Meredov also took part in the forum. Speaking at a panel discussion on … [Read more...]
Iran and Turkmenistan Target 30% Growth in Bilateral Trade
Iran and Turkmenistan aim to increase bilateral trade by 30% following the first-ever exhibition of Turkmenistan's export capabilities in Iran, held in Gorgan from May 4-6, 2025. This landmark event featured 53 private companies and 12 government institutions from Turkmenistan. The report was published by the Tehran Times on 13 May 2025. Key points: - Trade between the … [Read more...]
President of Turkmenistan Receives Heads of Delegations from ECO Member States
On Monday, 28 April, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov held separate meetings with the heads of delegations from member states of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO), who arrived in Ashgabat to participate in the first ECO Ministerial Forum on Sustainable Development. Meeting with ECO Secretary-General Asad Majid Khan Asad Majid Khan noted the high … [Read more...]
Iran advocates for initiatives to strengthen regional peace, says President Pezeshkian
Iran advocates for any efforts aimed at promoting peace and tranquility, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said during a telephone conversation with National Leader of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov on Saturday (April 26). President Peseshkian said that the upcoming joint economic commission in Tehran will facilitate the implementation of bilateral agreements and … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan offers aid to Iran following Bandar Abbas port explosion
On 26 April 2025, the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, held a telephone conversation with the President of Iran, Masoud Pezeshkian, the Turkmen State News Agency (TDH) reported. At the beginning of the conversation, Berdimuhamedov expressed deep sympathy and support to the Iranian people on … [Read more...]
Iran, Turkmenistan eye launching trial passenger rail, boost freight capacity
Iran and Turkmenistan have reached an agreement to initiate a trial passenger rail service between their nations, while also doubling freight capacity, signaling a major boost to regional connectivity. Farzaneh Sadegh, Iran’s Minister of Roads and Urban Development, announced the development following her return from a visit to Turkmenistan, where she attended the Conference … [Read more...]
President Serdar Berdimuhamedov extended visit invitation to Iranian President
On 31 March 2025, a telephone conversation took place between President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov and President of Iran Masoud Pezeshkian. During the conversation, the parties exchanged congratulations on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr. The sides noted that friendly relations between the two countries are actively developing in all directions, including in the … [Read more...]
The joint Turkmen-Iranian Economic Commission will meet in Tehran in May
A meeting of the joint Turkmen-Iranian economic commission will be held in the Iranian capital, Tehran, at the end of May this year. This issue was discussed during the meeting of, Minister of Roads and Urban Development Farzaneh Sadeghi Malvajerd with the Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Rashid Meredov. The meeting of the commission is … [Read more...]