The Kazan International Electric Power Forum "Energoprom-2026" is being held from 1 April to 3 April 2026 in the capital of the Republic of Tatarstan, Russian Federation. The Turkmen delegation is headed by the Minister of Energy of Turkmenistan, Annageldi Saparov. The event, held at the "Kazan EXPO" International Exhibition Center, is attended by state and public figures … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Delegation Participates in the International Transport and Logistics Forum in Saint Petersburg
On 1 April 2026, the International Transport and Logistics Forum opened in Saint Petersburg, hosted at the "Expoforum" Convention and Exhibition Centre from 1 to 3 April. A delegation from Turkmenistan, led by the Deputy Minister of Railway Transport, Silapberdi Nurberdiyev, is participating in the event. The forum has brought together representatives from international … [Read more...]
UNDP Presents the Interactive Climate Education Toolkit – ‘Climate Box’ in Turkmenistan
Ashgabat, 1 April 2026 – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Turkmenistan convened the final seminar of its regional project ‘Climate Education for Sustainable Development Goals and Climate Action (Climate Box)’, marking an important step in strengthening climate education across the country. The event brought together representatives from the education, … [Read more...]
INTERNATIONAL SCIENTIFIC CONFERENCE DEDICATED TO THE HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL HERITAGE OF TURKMENISTAN OPENS IN MOSCOW
On 25 March 2026, the opening of the international scientific conference "Margiana at the Crossroads of Civilizations: Intercultural Interaction in Central Asia, the Caucasus, and the Middle East – Antiquity and Modernity" took place in Moscow at the Presidium of the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS). The forum is timed to coincide with the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan's … [Read more...]
North-South Corridor via Turkmenistan Remains Operational Despite Middle East Tensions
The International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) is facing significant challenges due to the conflict in the Middle East; however, the eastern route passing through Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan remains functional and demonstrates resilience despite regional difficulties. This was highlighted in statements made by Russian Transport Minister Andrei Nikitin during an … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Launches Digital Platform for Russian Language Learning
A specialized online course designed to help first graders master the Russian language in an accessible and modern format has been launched on one of Turkmenistan's popular state news portals. The platform is available on the website of the International Information Center of Turkmenistan (THP) at the following link: https://www.turkmenistaninfo.gov.tm/ru/course The … [Read more...]
Russia to Support Turkmenistan’s Parliamentary Initiatives During Its CIS Chairmanship
On 5 March 2026, the Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Russia, Esen Aydogdyev, held a meeting with the Deputy Speaker of the Federation Council, Konstantin Kosachev. The parties exchanged views on cooperation within the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), where Turkmenistan holds the chairmanship this year, according to a press release from the Federation Council … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Facilitates Evacuation of Foreign Nationals from Iran
Amid the current regional situation, Turkmenistan has opened its borders to ensure the safe transit of foreign citizens leaving Iranian territory. Diplomatic missions from Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, and South Korea, with the active cooperation of Turkmen authorities, have organized a large-scale operation to repatriate their citizens. Reopening of Border … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan and Russia Expand Chess Cooperation
At the end of last week, Vepa Malikgulyyev, President of the Chess Federation of Turkmenistan, held working meetings with Sergey Karjakin, President of the Chess Federation of the Moscow Region (CFMR) and Senator of the Russian Federation, and Albert Minnullin, Executive Director of the CFMR. The parties discussed prospects for expanding bilateral cooperation in chess … [Read more...]
UNDP Launches Regional Project to Tackle Marine Litter and Plastic Pollution in the Caspian Sea
Ashgabat, 26 February 2026: The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in partnership with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the Secretariat of the Framework (Tehran) Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment of the Caspian Sea, and the Ministry of Environmental Protection of Turkmenistan, held an inception seminar to mark the launch of the … [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...]
The CIS through the Lens – Beauty Without Borders: #4 | Alexeyevka, Belgorod Region, Russia
The Belgorod region (Russia) is famous not only for its endless sunflower fields but also for an extraordinary microworld hidden within dense grass and woodland thickets. These pics from the town of Alexeyevka remind us how vital it is to pause for a moment in life’s frantic race to notice the world around us. Here, spring primroses break through the dry fallen leaves, while … [Read more...]
Moscow Hosts Event Honoring Turkmenistan’s National Milestones
On 20 February 2026, the Embassy of Turkmenistan in the Russian Federation hosted a solemn event dedicated to the motto of 2026 "Independent Neutral Turkmenistan – the homeland of purposeful heavenly horses", the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan's Independence, as well as the presentation of the new book by the President of Turkmenistan "Turkmenistan's Neutrality – a bright … [Read more...]
The Surging LNG Era: Global Market Growth Amid Geopolitical Shifts
nCa Report Overall Growth in the LNG Market The global liquefied natural gas (LNG) market expanded significantly in 2025, with trade volumes reaching an estimated 422.8-429 million tonnes (MT), up 3.9-4% from 2024's 411 MT. This growth was driven by new capacity additions, particularly in the U.S., and rebounding demand in regions like Europe and emerging markets. … [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...]
Astrakhan and Turkmenistan: A Course Toward Expanding Trade, Logistics, and Maritime Education
The Consul of Turkmenistan in Astrakhan, Gadam Ilamanov, held a meeting with Vladimir Golovkov, Minister of International and Foreign Economic Relations of the Astrakhan Region (Russia). The primary focus of the negotiations included trade and economic ties, personnel training for the maritime industry, and transport connectivity. Trade in Figures According to the … [Read more...]
Foreign Ministers of Turkmenistan and Russia Hold Telephone Talks
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...]