On 12 February 2026, a telephone conversation took place between the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Rashid Meredov, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, Sergey Lavrov. During the discussion, the parties addressed a wide range of bilateral agenda items, paying particular attention to the practical implementation of previously reached … [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...]
The CIS Through the Lens – Beauty Without Borders: #3 | Kostroma, Russia
Kostroma is one of the most charming and authentic cities along Russia’s famous Golden Ring route. Nestled on the banks of the Volga River, it harmoniously blends a majestic history with unique cultural landmarks. Furthermore, Kostroma rightfully holds two distinctive unofficial titles. The city is celebrated as the birthplace of Snegurochka (the Snow Maiden). It is home to … [Read more...]
The CIS Through the Lens – Beauty Without Borders: #2 | Doorenbos’s Snowberry
The Doorenbos’s snowberry (Symphoricarpos x doorenbosii) is a "pink miracle" amid everyday urban landscapes. This photo was taken in the Belgorod region, Russia. Reaching up to 3 meters in height, these shrubs are true symbols of both delicacy and incredible resilience, capable of withstanding temperatures as low as –34°C. The plant is named after the Dutch breeder Simon … [Read more...]
Turkmen-Russian High-Level Consultations Focus on Regional Security and Strategic Partnership
On 29 January 2026, a meeting was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan between Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov and the deputy foreign minister of Russia, Mikhail Galuzin. During the talks, the parties discussed topical issues on the bilateral agenda, including the schedule of upcoming inter-state contacts, avenues for further developing trade and … [Read more...]
The CIS Through the Lens – Beauty Without Borders: #1 | Volga River, Russia
Dear Readers, In 2026, Turkmenistan holds the chairmanship of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). One of the primary focus of this chairmanship is cultural and humanitarian cooperation—fostering closer ties between nations and strengthening mutual understanding. nCa launches a new series featuring photo collections of the picturesque landscapes found across the … [Read more...]
Russia and Central Asian Countries to Establish a Joint Energy Working Group
Russia and five Central Asian states—Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan—have agreed to establish a specialized working group on energy at the level of deputy ministers. This was announced following consultations held in the “Central Asia–Russia” format at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation. The new working group will … [Read more...]
“Central Asia – Russia” Format Consultations Held in Moscow
On 22 January 2026, high-level consultations in the "Central Asia – Russia" format were held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation. The meeting focused on the implementation of the Joint Action Plan for Central Asia and Russia for 2025–2027. The head of the Turkmen delegation, Ambassador of Turkmenistan E. Aydogdyev, noted in his remarks the importance … [Read more...]
Russian Ambassador’s Briefing: Outcomes and Prospects of Turkmen-Russian Dialogue
On 16 January 2026, a briefing was held in Ashgabat by Ambassador of Russia to Turkmenistan Ivan Volynkin. The event was attended by representatives of Turkmen media outlets and Russian news agencies accredited in the country. The main focus was a review of current Russia-Turkmenistan cooperation. Ambassador Volynkin emphasized that 2025 was a landmark year for bilateral … [Read more...]
Economies of Central Asia Show Robust Growth Amid Slowdown in CIS – UN Report
Most countries in the Caucasus and Central Asia maintain strong economic growth momentum, despite an overall slowdown in the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and Georgia region. These findings are presented in the new UN report "World Economic Situation and Prospects 2026." According to the report, following 4.6 per cent growth in 2024, the region’s GDP is … [Read more...]
Gas, Nuclear Energy, and Logistics: How Central Asia Transformed from “Periphery” to a Pillar of Russia’s Economic Strategy
The Moscow-based Russian Civil Society Fund recently released a report titled "A Decade of New Opportunities: Outlines of a New Strategic Partnership Between Russia and the Countries of Central Asia." The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the strategic partnership between Russia and the Central Asian states over the past decade (2015-2025). It also forecasts the … [Read more...]
CIS Heads of State Summit to Be Held in Turkmenistan’s “Awaza” in October 2026 – Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov and Valentina Matviyenko Hold Phone Conversation
A phone conversation took place on 30 December 2025, between the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, and the Chairperson of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation, Valentina Matviyenko, according to the state news agency TDH. During the discussion, the sides … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan condemns attacks on Russian President’s residence
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan has distributed a message to the media: In regard to reports about the attack on the residence of the President of Russia, the Turkmen side expresses concern and condemns such actions, which pose threat to international security and stability, especially against the backdrop of ongoing efforts to settle the conflict by the … [Read more...]
Russia’s pivot toward Asia includes increased gas supplies to Central Asia
As reported by 24.kg, Gazprom’s supplies to Central Asia will more than double within five years, with the company seeking to redirect volumes previously destined for the European market. According to information from EADaily, which cites data from Gazprombank’s Center for Economic Forecasting via Vedomosti, supplies are estimated at 19-20 billion cubic meters. Open.kg … [Read more...]
Traditional December Summit of the Commonwealth of Independent States: Year-End Review and Future Plans
On 22 December 2025, in St. Petersburg, leaders from member countries of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) gathered for their traditional informal pre-New Year summit. Participants included: Russian President Vladimir Putin, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Kyrgyz President … [Read more...]
President of Turkmenistan to Attend Informal CIS Summit in St. Petersburg
On 21 December 2025, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov departed for a working visit to St.Petersburg, Russia, to participate in the informal High-Level Summit of the Heads of State of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), TDH reports. "Informal CIS summits have become an important platform allowing the leaders of CIS member states to maintain close dialogue. Unlike … [Read more...]
Russia and Turkmenistan Discuss Prospects for Joint Projects in Digital Land Cadastre
During an official visit by a delegation from Turkmenistan's Ministry of Agriculture to Russia, representatives met with leadership from Rosreestr (the Russian Federal Service for State Registration, Cadastre and Cartography) and visited the Public-Law Company "Roskadastr". The parties exchanged expertise in digitizing real estate registration and accounting systems and … [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...]
On the Sidelines of Neutrality Conference in Ashgabat: Meeting of the Presidents of Turkmenistan and Russia
In the lively atmosphere following the conclusion of the international forum on peace and trust in Ashgabat, President Vladimir Putin and President Serdar Berdimuhamedov found time for a personal conversation that underscored the enduring warmth between Moscow and Ashgabat. This meeting, which took place immediately after the plenary session of the forum “Peace and Trust: Unity … [Read more...]
On the Sidelines of Neutrality Conference in Ashgabat: Arkadag-Putin Meeting
ASHGABAT — Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, the former president of Turkmenistan known as Arkadag, personally greeted President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia at the airport here on Friday in a warm display of the longstanding ties between the two countries. The brief encounter at Ashgabat International Airport's presidential terminal, which included a guard of honor, … [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...]
On the Sidelines of Neutrality Conference in Ashgabat: Putin-Erdoğan Meeting
Ashgabat – Russian President Vladimir V. Putin and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan held an hourlong meeting here on Friday, focusing on a number of issues including the Ukraine conflict and the European actions against frozen Russian assets. The meeting took place on the margins of the International Peace and Trust Forum, which commemorated the 30th anniversary of … [Read more...]
Putin at the Peace and Trust Forum in Ashgabat: Russia and Turkmenistan Develop Partnership in the Spirit of Friendship and Good Neighborliness
President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin participated in an international forum dedicated to the International Year of Peace and Trust, the International Day of Neutrality, and the 30th anniversary of the proclamation of Turkmenistan's permanent neutrality. Russian President Vladimir Putin opened his address with warm congratulations to President of Turkmenistan … [Read more...]
The Lifeline: Siberian Rivers May Save Central Asia
nCa Report On a crisp November morning in Moscow, members of the Russian Academy of Sciences gathered to discuss what many had considered a relic of Soviet hubris: the possibility of redirecting Siberian rivers thousands of kilometers south to the parched lands of Central Asia. The proposal, announced on November 14th, represents the latest resurrection of an idea that … [Read more...]
Russia and China Deepen Financial Alliance With Moscow’s Landmark Yuan Bond Issue
Russia has taken a major step toward fuller integration with China’s financial system by issuing its first sovereign bonds denominated in Chinese renminbi, raising nearly $3 billion in a transaction that both sides hailed as a milestone in their rapidly expanding economic partnership. The information comes from the Financial Times and the Russian media. The Russian Finance … [Read more...]
European Union Says It Seeks No Expansion in Central Asia
The European Union’s special representative for Central Asia, Eduards Stiprais, rejected suggestions that Brussels is pursuing political or economic expansion in the region, emphasizing that the bloc’s growing engagement is driven solely by mutual benefit and a desire for stability. “We are not immediate neighbors, so it is very difficult to accuse us of any attempts at … [Read more...]
Oguljahan Atabayeva and Valentina Matvienko Discuss Development of Turkmen-Russian Relations
Russia is closely following Turkmenistan’s achievements and its success in the international arena, stated Valentina Matvienko, Chairperson of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation, during a meeting with Oguljahan Atabayeva, Vice-President for Medical Activities of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Supporting Children in … [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...]
A delegation from Turkmenistan participated in the 2nd International Conference on Public Administration in Moscow
On 6-7 November 2025, a delegation from Turkmenistan, led by A. Annamuradov, Rector of the Academy of Public Administration under the President of Turkmenistan, participated in the 2nd International Scientific and Practical Conference on Public Administration. The event, organized by the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration, brought … [Read more...]
Central Asia Gears Up for Historic C5+1 Summit with Trump: A Mix of Optimism and Caution
Tariq Saeedi As the world watches the evolving dynamics of global diplomacy, the upcoming C5+1 summit in Washington, D.C., on November 6, 2025, is generating significant buzz across Central Asia and beyond. This gathering, marking the 10th anniversary of the C5+1 format that brings together the United States and the five Central Asian republics—Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, … [Read more...]
Turkmen-Russian consultations on countering modern challenges and threats took place in Moscow
On October 27, 2025, consultations on countering modern challenges and threats were held in Moscow between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan and the Russian Federation, with the participation of representatives of the relevant bodies of the two states. The Turkmen delegation was headed by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Ahmet Gurbanov, and … [Read more...]
OGT 2025: Gas imports from Turkmenistan to China face competition from potential new supplies, says S&P Global Commodity Insights
The future of Turkmenistan's crucial gas exports to China faces a complex intersection of growing Chinese demand and increasing global supply competition, according to Tianshi Huang, Senior Principal Analyst for China Gas Research at S&P Global Insights. Numerous factors can influence the potential growth of Turkmenistan's gas exports to China, including upstream supply … [Read more...]
Speaker of Turkmenistan Parliament visits Moscow: Gulmanova and Matviyenko discuss strategic partnership and sign inter-parliamentary agreement
On 21 October 2025, Chairwoman of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan, Dunyagozel Gulmanova, met with Chairperson of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly, Valentina Matviyenko, as part of an official visit to Moscow. During the meeting, the Speaker of the Federation Council stated that Dunyagozel Gulmanova’s visit to Moscow is of particular importance. "This is your first … [Read more...]
Moscow Celebrates the 30th Anniversary of Turkmenistan’s Neutrality, the International Year of Peace and Trust, and the UN 80th Anniversary
On 17 October 2025, the Embassy of Turkmenistan in the Russian Federation hosted a reception marking the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s permanent Neutrality, the International Year of Peace and Trust, the 80th anniversary of the United Nations, and the conclusion of the “UN–80 Friendship Games” sports tournament. The event was organized by the Embassy of Turkmenistan in … [Read more...]
Technology and Trade: St. Petersburg Exchange and Turkmenistan State Commodity Exchange Sign Partnership Agreement
The St. Petersburg Exchange and the State Commodity and Raw Materials Exchange of Turkmenistan (GTSBT) have signed an agreement on technological and marketing cooperation. The document was signed during the 13th meeting of the Russian-Turkmen Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation, held in Ashgabat. The agreement aims to expand the geographical reach, increase … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan and Russia Prepare New Agreements on Customs Cooperation
The customs authorities of Turkmenistan and Russia are preparing to sign draft agreements on Authorized Economic Operators and a protocol on the exchange of preliminary information regarding goods and vehicles. These topics were discussed during a meeting between deputy heads of the customs services held on the sidelines of the Turkmen-Russian Intergovernmental Commission … [Read more...]
Strategic Partnership in Focus: President of Turkmenistan Meets Russian Deputy Prime Minister
On 13 October 2025, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov received Marat Khusnullin, Deputy Chairman of the Government of the Russian Federation. The Russian Deputy Prime Minister expressed gratitude to the Head of Turkmenistan for the opportunity to discuss matters of strategic partnership between the two countries, noting that Russia highly values its strategic partnership with … [Read more...]
Digital Attaché: Russia Intends to Promote Its IT Solutions on the Turkmen Market
Russia plans to appoint a "Digital Attaché" to Turkmenistan to promote Russian IT solutions in the country. This specialist is expected to arrive in Ashgabat before the end of the current year. This was announced by Dmitry Grigorenko, Deputy Prime Minister – Chief of the Government Staff of the Russian Federation, during a meeting in Ashgabat with Deputy Prime Minister … [Read more...]
Turkmen-Russian Intergovernmental Commission Meeting in Ashgabat: Focus on Trade, Transport, and Education
The meeting of the Turkmen-Russian Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation took place in Ashgabat. The commission was co-chaired by Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan Nokerguly Atagulyev, responsible for the trade sector, and Deputy Chairman of the Government of the Russian Federation Marat Khusnullin. “Our cooperation rests on a … [Read more...]
The Taste of Diplomacy: How Tajikistan Charmed Leaders of Central Asian and Russia with a Spectacular Harvest Display
On 9 October 2025, President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon hosted an informal gathering—a "friendship evening"—for the heads of state participating in the Central Asia–Russia Summit and the CIS Summit at the government residence in Dushanbe. A vibrant exhibition of Tajikistan’s agricultural products and national cuisine was organized in the picturesque setting of the … [Read more...]
A firm commitment to partnership and alliance: Putin on Strengthening Russia-Central Asia Ties
On October 9, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed the second Central Asia–Russia summit in Dushanbe, reaffirming Russia's dedication to strengthening strategic partnerships and alliances with Central Asian states—Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. The speech highlighted the immense potential for economic cooperation, outlining key … [Read more...]
Transport, Nuclear Energy, Industrial Cooperation: Uzbekistan’s President Names Partnership Priorities for Central Asia and Russia
At Dushanbe Summit on Thursday, 9 October 2025, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev called on the countries of Central Asia and Russia for closer coordination and cooperation in the six-sided format, urged by "growing geopolitical tension and crisis phenomena in the world economy." In this context, the leader of Uzbekistan outlined his vision for the prospects of … [Read more...]
Trade, Transport, Energy, and Security: Initiatives of the President of Kazakhstan at the Central Asia – Russia Summit
Trade with Russia accounts for one-third of the total trade turnover of the Central Asian countries, announced President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev while addressing the Central Asia – Russia Summit in Tajikistan. "It is gratifying that the situation in the Central Asian region itself has evolved in recent years towards political solidarity, economic cooperation, and … [Read more...]
Central Asia – Russia Summit: Kyrgyz President Highlights Positive Shift in Central Asian Security Situation
For Kyrgyzstan, the Central Asian countries and Russia invariably remain key partners. This format serves as a practical tool for deepening comprehensive partnership, stated President Sadyr Japarov of the Kyrgyz Republic at the Second Central Asia – Russia Summit in Dushanbe. Speaking about the current international situation, Sadyr Japarov noted that the meeting was … [Read more...]
President of Tajikistan Chaired the Second “Central Asia–Russia” Summit in Dushanbe
On 9 October 2025, under the chairmanship of the President of the Republic of Tajikistan, Emomali Rahmon, the Second “Central Asia–Russia” Summit was held at the Government Residence in Dushanbe. The summit brought together the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, the President of the Kyrgyz Republic Sadyr Japarov, the President of the Russian … [Read more...]
Central Asia – Russia Summit: Turkmenistan’s President Calls for a Return Civilized Communication in International Relations
On 9 October 2025, the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, addressed the Second Central Asia – Russia Summit in Dushanbe, which was held under the chairmanship of Tajikistan. President Berdimuhamedov underscored the importance of the Second Summit as a step towards transitioning cooperation in this format onto a systemic basis, reflecting an objective process … [Read more...]
Communiqué of the Dushanbe Summit: Central Asia and Russia Reaffirm Commitment to Multipolarity and Strategic Partnership
On 9 October 2025, the Central Asia–Russia Summit was held in Dushanbe under the chairmanship of President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon. The summit was attended by the heads of state of Central Asia and Russia: President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon, President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, President of Kyrgyzstan Sadyr Japarov, President of Russia Vladimir Putin, … [Read more...]