On 24 March 2026, negotiations were held between the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Rashid Meredov and the State Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uganda, Henry Oryem Okello, who is visiting Ashgabat. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, the sides expressed satisfaction with the progressive development of bilateral … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan and China: A Partnership in Motion
Tariq Saeedi and Elvira Kadyrova The Beijing visit and the Ashgabat forum of March 2026 mark a new phase in a relationship that has been quietly, but steadily, reshaping Central Asia's economic geography When Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty, arrived in Beijing in the third week of March 2026, it was … [Read more...]
National Leader of the Turkmen People gives Interview to China’s CGTN
On the sidelines of his visit to China, the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, gave an interview to the CGTN television channel, offering an in-depth look at the multifaceted strategic partnership between Turkmenistan and China. Berdimuhamedov emphasized the deep historical roots of bilateral ties, which date back to the era of the Great Silk … [Read more...]
National Leader of Turkmenistan and President of Uzbekistan Hold Telephone Talks
On 20 March 2026, at the initiative of the Turkmen side, a telephone conversation took place between the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov and President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev. The leaders congratulated each other and the peoples of both countries on the holidays of Oraza Bayramy (Eid … [Read more...]
Gas, Logistics, and an Akhal-Teke Horse as a Gift: Key Highlights of the Beijing Meeting Between Turkmenistan’s National Leader and the President of China
On 18 March 2026, an official meeting took place in Beijing between the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, and the President of the People's Republic of China, Xi Jinping, according to the State News Agency of Turkmenistan (TDH). At the beginning of the meeting, President Xi Jinping extended his greetings to the President of … [Read more...]
MFA China: President Xi Jinping Meets with National Leader of the Turkmen People and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov
On the afternoon of March 18, 2026, President Xi Jinping met with National Leader of the Turkmen People and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, who is on a goodwill visit to China, at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse in Beijing. President Xi Jinping noted that China’s annual “two sessions” were successfully concluded not long ago, during … [Read more...]
National Leader of the Turkmen People Pays Friendly Visit to China
On 17 March 2026, at the invitation of President Xi Jinping of the People's Republic of China, the National Leader of the Turkmen People, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, departed for a friendly visit to the PRC, the state news agency TDH reports. Prior to his departure for Beijing at Ashgabat International Airport, Arkadag Berdimuhamedov held a meeting with the leaders of the … [Read more...]
War on Iran – Part Ten – A Composite Conflict Without a Clean Termination Point
Tariq Saeedi As I step back and look at the broader picture after nearly three weeks of fighting, one truth stands out: this is not a conventional war with clear lines between opposing forces. It is a composite conflict, layered with multiple battles playing out simultaneously—military, economic, informational, and ideological. Not every participant is firing shots; some … [Read more...]
nCa Interview: Relations Between the Republic of Armenia and Turkmenistan Characterized by Stability, Predictability, and Mutual Respect – Ambassador Arsen Avagyan
The relationship between Armenia and Turkmenistan today serves as a model of stable partnership, rooted in mutual respect. While the political dialogue between Yerevan and Ashgabat remains at a high level, both nations acknowledge the existence of significant untapped potential across various sectors. In an exclusive interview with News Central Asia, the Ambassador … [Read more...]
Center for Islamic Civilization: A Megaproject Recognized by the International Community
Firdavs Abdukhalikov, Director of the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan Exactly one year ago, on January 29, 2025, His Excellency the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, visited the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan. During his visit, he provided a series of recommendations and directives regarding the incorporation of … [Read more...]
War on Iran – Part Six – Avoiding the Traps of History
Tariq Saeedi As I reflect on the unfolding conflict, it strikes me that this war on Iran defies all reason and logic. There was no compelling justification presented for launching the strikes—no imminent threat that couldn't have been addressed through diplomacy or existing sanctions. And without clear, measurable objectives, what we're left with is a cycle of mindless death … [Read more...]
War on Iran – Part Four – Alarming Congressional Briefings and a House Divided
Tariq Saeedi On Tuesday afternoon, March 3, the senior architects of America's war on Iran walked into the U.S. Capitol to face the legislature they had bypassed five days earlier. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, CIA Director John Ratcliffe, and General Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, sat down first with the full Senate, then … [Read more...]
High-Level Visit Preparations Top Agenda of Turkmenistan-Republic of Korea Talks at the Foreign Ministry
On Wednesday, 4 March 2026, a meeting was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan between Deputy Foreign Minister Akhmet Gurbanov and the Vice Minister for Public Diplomacy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea, Lim Sang-woo. The diplomats highly praised the current dynamics of bilateral relations, which are actively developing across … [Read more...]
Ambassador Sapar Palvanov: Unlocking Turkmenistan-EU Cooperation potential requires a Modern Legal Platform
In Brussels, Ambassador of Turkmenistan Sapar Palvanov delivered a briefing to Members of the European Parliament with the participation of the Delegation for Relations with Central Asia and Mongolia (DCAS). The event was chaired by the Head of the DCAS, Ms. Giuseppina Princi, the Embassy of Turkmenistan to Belgium reports. During the briefing, the Ambassador focused on the … [Read more...]
Central Asia as a Sovereign Region: The Case for a Permanent Seat on the UN Security Council
Tariq Saeedi I have long been struck by the quiet strength of Central Asia—a region that, in just over three decades, has transformed itself from the fragmented aftermath of an empire into a model of regional harmony. As someone who has watched its evolution closely, I believe it is time to recognize Central Asia not merely as five independent nations, but as a sovereign … [Read more...]
War on Iran – Part One – Martyrdom of Khamenei
Tariq Saeedi On 28 February 2026, the Supreme Leader of Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed in the initial wave of strikes launched by US-Israeli forces on his compound in central Tehran. This event marked a pivotal moment in the escalating conflict, drawing immediate reactions from across the political spectrum. While the strikes were framed by the attackers as a … [Read more...]
Turkmen delegation in Baku: Meeting with Azerbaijani Foreign Minister and political consultations
On 27 February 2026, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Jeyhun Bayramov, received a delegation led by the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Ahmed Kurbanov. This is reported by the Embassy of Azerbaijan in Turkmenistan. During the meeting, the dynamic development of the political dialogue aimed at further strengthening friendly … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan and the UK Aim to Strengthen Partnership: Key Outcomes of Meredov-Cooper Meeting in London
On 26 February 2026, a bilateral meeting took place at Lancaster House in London between the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Rashid Meredov, and the UK Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, Ms. Yvette Cooper. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Stephen Doughty, Minister for Europe, North America, and … [Read more...]
London and Central Asia: Launch of the CA5+UK Format Ushers in a New Era of Strategic Partnership
On 26 February 2026, London hosted the meeting of the Foreign Ministers of Central Asian countries and the United Kingdom in the CA5+UK format. The meeting was attended by: This marks the first time since the Central Asian nations gained independence in 1991 that the Foreign Ministers of the region and the United Kingdom have convened in such a format. During the … [Read more...]
London: Central Asian Foreign Ministers Discuss Regional Security with UK Minister of State for Defence
On 25 February 2026, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Rashid Meredov, participated in a meeting between the heads of foreign ministries of Central Asian nations and the UK Minister of State for Defence, Lord Rodney Coaker, held at the Horse Guards building. During the meeting, the sides discussed issues of regional security, strengthening mutual … [Read more...]
London: Turkmen Foreign Minister Meets with Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh
On 25 February 2026, a meeting was held at Lancaster House, the prestigious UK Foreign Office building, between the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Rashid Meredov, and His Royal Highness Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, the sides exchanged views on further strengthening Turkmen-British ties, … [Read more...]
London: Central Asian Foreign Ministers Hold Meetings at British Parliament
On 25 February 2026, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Rashid Meredov, participated in a joint meeting of Central Asian foreign ministers with Sir Lindsay Hoyle, the Speaker of the House of Commons of the UK Parliament. This was reported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. During the meeting, the Turkmen side expressed gratitude for the … [Read more...]
Belarusian Ambassador and Turkmenistan MFA discuss strengthening air connectivity
A meeting was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan between the Ambassador of Belarus, Stanislav Chepurnoy, and the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Ahmet Gurbanov. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belarus, one of the key items on the meeting's agenda was the development of air services between Belarus and … [Read more...]
President of Georgia Receives Chairperson of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan
On February 24, 2026, the President of Georgia, Mikheil Kavelashvili, received the Chairperson of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan, Dunyagozel Gulmanova, who is on an official visit to Georgia, the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Georgia reports. The Chairperson of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan conveyed warm greetings and best wishes from the President of Turkmenistan Serdar … [Read more...]
Truth for a Diplomat – Part 12 – PHILOSOPHY OF THE WINGED HORSE: formats of targeted promotion in transport and sports diplomacy of Turkmenistan
Dr. Begench Karaev One of the priority areas for the successful implementation of Turkmenistan's foreign policy strategy under the leadership of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov is the consistent strengthening of global economic, transport, and energy ties, which are an integral component of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. In this area, Turkmenistan is actively … [Read more...]
Sanctions on Key Economic Partners of Central Asia
Tariq Saeedi Central Asia (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan) maintains strong economic ties with Russia, Iran, and China, primarily in energy, trade, remittances, and infrastructure. However, ongoing US and EU sanctions on these partners—often justified on grounds of human rights violations, military aggression, or nuclear proliferation—have … [Read more...]
Strengthening Sovereignty through Connectivity: Turkmen Expert Analyzes the Impact of Azerbaijan Joining the “Central Asian Five”
The Director of the Scientific Center for Strategic Studies at the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Ambassador Shiri Shiriev, recently shared detailed insights in an interview with the portal “Turkmenistan – Golden Age” about the new C6 format (Central Asia + Azerbaijan). He described it as a significant stage in the … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan and Zimbabwe Forge Diplomatic Ties: Political Consultations Held in Ashgabat
On 23 February 2026, Turkmenistan and the Republic of Zimbabwe announced their intention to elevate bilateral relations to a qualitatively new level, as evidenced by meetings marking the start of an active political and economic dialogue between the two nations. Ministerial Level Meeting The key event of the day was the negotiations between the Deputy Chairman of the … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan’s National Leader in Al Arabiya Interview: $45 Billion Partnership with the U.S., Trans-Caspian Pipeline, and Geopolitics
During his visit to the United States, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslakhaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, sat down for an interview with Riz Khan, a prominent host on the Al Arabiya news channel. The interview highlights key aspects of the bilateral partnership, including the successful operations of U.S. corporations … [Read more...]
National Leader of Turkmen People Holds High-Level Meetings with US Business Leaders in Florida
During a working visit to Florida, USA, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslakhaty, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, held a series of meetings with representatives of the American business community. The State News Agency of Turkmenistan (TDH) reported on the discussions. Nicklaus Companies (Golf Industry) At a meeting with John Reese, … [Read more...]
Trump’s Board of Peace – Creating a lumpy and shapeless New World Order?
Tariq Saeedi As the inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace (BoP) has now taken place, it's an opportune moment to reflect on its implications and potential trajectory. Chaired by President Trump, this gathering in Washington, D.C., brought together representatives from over two dozen nations, focusing primarily on Gaza's fragile ceasefire and reconstruction. While the … [Read more...]
“Close Neighbors and Allies”: Moscow Respects Central Asia’s Multi-Vector Diplomacy
Russia views the multi-vector policy of Central Asian countries, which Moscow considers allies and strategic partners, with understanding. This follows from recent official statements by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation. At a press conference on 18 February, Maria Zakharova, the official representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry, addressing the … [Read more...]
Germany and Central Asia: Reading the Berlin Declaration as a Strategic Roadmap
Tariq Saeedi AI is inevitable. Journalism was one of the first professions that started embracing AI. --- It stands to logic. In AI you find a very competent and knowledgeable assistant who completes the assignment faithfully (well, except for occasional hallucinations), never gets tired, never goes for coffee break, and cheerfully rewrites the draft as many times as you … [Read more...]
Ambassador Philippe Merlin of France Praises EU-Turkmenistan Progress and Highlights Key Priorities for 2026
At today's press briefing at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Ambassador of France to Turkmenistan Philippe Merlin delivered remarks expressing strong support for the European Union's engagement with Turkmenistan and outlining France's active role within the Team Europe framework. Ambassador Merlin began by thanking EU Ambassador Beata Pęksa and Deputy … [Read more...]
Speech by President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov at an expanded meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers
Dear members of the Cabinet of Ministers! Dear participants of the meeting! As a result of the hard work of our people, great successes have been achieved and plans have been fulfilled in the International Year of Peace and Trust. Work continued on the development and implementation of modern laws. The high rate of economic development has been maintained. GDP … [Read more...]
Japan’s Flourishing Ties with Central Asia: A Symphony of Tradition, Vision, and Resolve
Tariq Saeedi In Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, on 13 February 2026, the Embassy of Japan will host a reception to celebrate Emperor Naruhito's birthday. This early gathering – the official date falls later on February 23 – isn't just a diplomatic nicety; it's a vibrant nod to the enduring institution of Japan's monarchy, which weaves seamlessly into the fabric of the nation's … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan participates in the meeting of the Foreign Ministers of Germany – Central Asia
On 11 February 2026, in Berlin, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Akhmet Gurbanov took part in a meeting between the Federal Minister of Foreign Affairs of Germany and the heads of foreign ministries of Central Asian countries. The main topics of the talks were the development of cooperation in the energy sector, issues of regional partnership and others, … [Read more...]
Berlin Hosts Historic Central Asia-Germany Ministerial Meeting, Elevates Strategic Partnership
nCa Report Germany solidified its commitment to Central Asia on Wednesday, hosting the first-ever ministerial-level meeting in the C5+1 (Z5+1) format with all five Central Asian nations, marking a significant step in the deepening "Strategic Regional Partnership" between the regions. The high-level diplomatic gathering brought together Foreign Minister Johann … [Read more...]
Central Asia 2026: From Great-Power Prize to Geostrategic Platform
Hao Nan Editor’s note: This is the truncated version of an analysis by Hao Nan. It was originally published by the think tank Valdai Club. The complete text of the analysis is available at this link --- https://valdaiclub.com/a/highlights/central-asia-2026-from-great-power-prize/ --- Ed. In 2025, Central Asia began to look less like a blank space on someone else’s … [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...]
Preventive Governance: Turkmenistan’s Vision for Rebuilding Global Trust
Tariq Saeedi At the World Government Summit in Dubai, Turkmenistan presented a framework that cuts to the heart of contemporary international relations: the world has become reactive when it must be preventive, fragmented when it must be unified, and uncertain when it must be predictable. Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov's four initiatives form not a wishlist but a … [Read more...]
Islamabad Summit Talks: Uzbekistan and Pakistan ink 30 New Agreements, a Defense Sector “Roadmap,” and Agree on $2 Billion Trade Turnover
On 5 February 2026, summit talks took place in Islamabad between President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Prime Minister of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif. The first day of the Uzbek leader’s two-day visit (5–6 February) was marked by negotiations in a narrow format, the inaugural session of the Supreme-Level Strategic Cooperation Council, and the signing of a substantial … [Read more...]
Strategic Partnership between Uzbekistan and Pakistan – A Key Factor in Strengthening Central and South Asia Connectivity
On February 5–6, the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev will pay a state visit to Pakistan. This visit is seen as a logical continuation of the intensified Uzbek-Pakistani dialogue in recent years and, at the same time, as an important step in implementing Uzbekistan’s foreign policy strategy, focused on expanding cooperation with South Asian countries. The visit … [Read more...]
Kazakhstan and Pakistan Establish Strategic Partnership
President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev paid a state visit to Pakistan. On 4 February 2026, summit talks took place in Islamabad between Tokayev and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. This marks the first visit by Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to Pakistan as President. Furthermore, the visit carries symbolic significance as it coincided with the 34th anniversary of the establishment … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan participates in the World Government Summit in Dubai
The delegation of Turkmenistan headed by the Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Rashid Meredov is participating in the World Government Summit, which is being held in Dubai from February 3 to 5, 2026, the Foreign ministry of Turkmenistan reports. Speaking at the session “The Future of Global Alliances”, Rashid Meredov … [Read more...]
Erbakan Unlocked: The Engineer Who Hacked Unity and Inspired a Borderless Future
Tariq Saeedi In an era where global divisions seem deeper than ever, there's a quiet urgency to rediscover figures who bridged worlds with vision and pragmatism. Necmettin Erbakan, the Turkish engineer-turned-statesman who passed away in 2011, stands as one such luminary—a man whose life and legacy transcend national borders, offering lessons in unity, innovation, and … [Read more...]
Tashkent and Ankara Strengthen Strategic Partnership on the Eve of the 30th Anniversary of the Friendship Treaty – Outcomes of the Uzbekistan President’s Visit to Türkiye
On 29 January 2026, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev arrived in Ankara on an official visit at the invitation of President of Türkiye Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. The main event of the one-day visit was the fourth meeting of the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council, co-chaired by the two presidents, followed by an expanded meeting of the delegations. The sides … [Read more...]
Central Asia and Turkiye: A New Phase of Interconnectivity
Dilorom MAMATKULOVA, Leading research fellow of the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan The strategic convergence between Turkiye and Central Asian states –driven by shared historical and cultural heritage alongside mutually reinforcing economic interests – is cultivating a novel architectural framework for regional … [Read more...]
Diplomacy of Trust, Integration, and Connectivity: Turkmenistan Presents 2026 CIS Chairmanship Concept in Minsk
The concept of Turkmenistan’s chairmanship of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) in 2026, along with the corresponding action plan, was presented in Minsk during a meeting of the Council of Permanent Plenipotentiary Representatives of the CIS member states. The document was detailed by the Permanent Representative of Turkmenistan to the CIS statutory and other … [Read more...]
On Trump’s Potential, and the Imperative of Defragmentation
Tariq Saeedi I remain a supporter of President Trump, not out of blind loyalty, but because I recognize his unique potential and proven ability to deliver on promises that conventional politicians merely talk about. His track record speaks for itself. However, as someone invested in seeing his legacy secured and his second term succeed, I believe we must examine certain … [Read more...]