A commemorative event marking the Day of Remembrance and Mourning was held in Ashgabat at the “Memory Alley,” a memorial site inaugurated in May last year as part of celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War. According to information published by THP, the ceremony was organized by the Embassy of the Russian Federation in … [Read more...]
Beyond Moscow and Kabul: What the Russia-Taliban Agreement Means for Central Asia
nCa Commentary The military-technical cooperation agreement signed between Russia and the Taliban on 27 May 2026 has, understandably, been read mainly through the lens of Moscow's deepening recognition of the Taliban government and the broader reconfiguration of Eurasian security after the US withdrawal. Less attention has gone to a narrower but practical question: does … [Read more...]
Pakistan Eyes Major Eurasian Trade Boost by Linking Gwadar Port to Russia-Backed INSTC
Pakistan is actively pursuing integration into the Russia-backed International North–South Transport Corridor (INSTC) by connecting it with the strategically vital Gwadar Port, officials from both Moscow and Islamabad have confirmed. Special Assistant to the Pakistani Prime Minister Talha Burki announced Pakistan’s interest during the second Russia–Pakistan International … [Read more...]
Russia, Turkmenistan cooperation to boost energy security for decades — Anwar
Strategic cooperation with Russia and Turkmenistan will strengthen Malaysia’s energy supply security for decades, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said. He said Russian President Vladimir Putin had assured Malaysia of a long-term agreement for the supply of oil, gas and diesel for at least 20 years. “The matter was conveyed by the Russian President during … [Read more...]
CSTO Advances Joint Electronic Warfare Capabilities, Bolstering Central Asian Security Amid Evolving Regional Threats
Defense officials from Central Asian states joined their CSTO counterparts in St. Petersburg on 17 June 2026 for a key meeting on electronic warfare (EW), highlighting the alliance’s push to integrate modern capabilities for collective defense in a region facing persistent security challenges. The Working Group on Electronic Warfare under the CSTO Council of Defense … [Read more...]
A handmade carpet based on the fairy tales of Alexander Pushkin has been woven in Turkmenistan
The Turkmen carpet company "El Darak," in partnership with the National Museum of Turkmen Carpets, created a unique hand-woven piece based on the fairy tales of Alexander Pushkin. The project was realized as a sign of friendship between Turkmenistan and Russia. On a carpet measuring 2 by 1.5 meters, the craftsmen depicted Lukomorye, the Golden Cockerel, characters from The … [Read more...]
Russian Ambassador Highlights Turkmen Neutrality as Pillar of Regional Stability
Russia’s Ambassador to Turkmenistan, Ivan Volynkin, has described Turkmenistan’s policy of permanent neutrality as an important factor contributing to global stability and geopolitical balance in the region. Speaking at a reception marking Russia Day, Volynkin said Moscow highly values its political dialogue with Ashgabat and maintains regular consultations on a broad range … [Read more...]
Outcomes of Putin’s Visit to Kazakhstan: Nuclear Power Plant, Billions in Investments, and a Breakthrough in Autonomous Shipping
The state visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin to Kazakhstan is taking place from 27 to 29 May 2026. The main highest-level events were held in Astana on 28 May. The program traditionally included talks in narrow and expanded formats between President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and President Putin, statements by the heads of state to the press, and the launch of joint … [Read more...]
President of Turkmenistan receives Prime Minister of Russia
On 22 May 2026, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov received Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Mikhail Mishustin on the sidelines of the meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the Commonwealth of Independent States held in Ashgabat. During the meeting, the sides discussed a wide range of issues on the bilateral agenda, paying special attention to … [Read more...]
Chairperson of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan Meets with the Head of the Russian Federation Council in St. Petersburg
On 21 May, on the sidelines of the spring session of the Interparliamentary Assembly of CIS Member Nations in St. Petersburg, a meeting was held between the Chairperson of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan, Dunyagozel Gulmanova, and the Chairperson of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation, Valentina Matviyenko. During the talks, V. Matviyenko … [Read more...]
Meeting of the CIS IPA Council Held in St. Petersburg: Autumn Session of the Assembly to Take Place in Ashgabat
On 21 May 2026, St. Petersburg hosted a meeting of the Council of the Interparliamentary Assembly of Member Nations of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS IPA). The meeting was opened by the Chairperson of the CIS IPA Council, Speaker of the Federation Council of the Russian Federation Valentina Matviyenko. The meeting was attended by the heads of parliamentary … [Read more...]
Russian business leader on future China-Russia cooperation
Chen Ziqi, a reporter from CGTN CGTN interviewed Pavel Kiparisov in Beijing, Chairman of the Russian-Chinese Guild of Commerce, on May 18, 2026. [Photo: courtesy of Pavel Kiparisov] As Russian President Vladimir Putin begins his state visit to China from May 19 to 20, attention is once again turning to the strength and resilience of China–Russia relations at a time … [Read more...]
Horses, Victories, and Cultural Dialogue: The Second Day of Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov’s Visit to Kazan
The second day of the National Leader of the Turkmen people’s working visit to Tatarstan was exceptionally productive. On 14 May, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov not only participated in official OIC events but also dedicated significant attention to equestrian sports—a symbolic bridge connecting Ashgabat and Kazan. Triumph of Turkmen Jockeys at the Kazan Hippodrome The day … [Read more...]
Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov and Rustam Minnikhanov Discuss IT Cooperation and Cultural Projects in Kazan
On 13 May, as part of his visit to Tatarstan, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslakhaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, held talks with the Rais of the Republic of Tatarstan, Rustam Minnikhanov. The meeting took place at the Kazan Kremlin in both a narrow format and with the participation of government delegations, as reported by … [Read more...]
National Leader of the Turkmen People Meets with the Rais of Tatarstan
On Wednesday, 13 May, the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, who is currently visiting Kazan, met with the Rais of Tatarstan, Rustam Minnikhanov. This was reported by the press service of the Head of Tatarstan. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov is leading the Turkmenistan delegation at the 17th International Economic Forum "Russia – Islamic World: … [Read more...]
National Leader of Turkmenistan and President of Russia Hold Telephone Conversation
On 13 May, President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin held a telephone conversation with the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslakhaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, according to the Kremlin’s press service. "Current issues regarding the further strengthening of the Russia-Turkmenistan strategic partnership and cooperation … [Read more...]
Russia, Turkmenistan Advance Plans for Full-Cycle Steel Production Cooperation
Russian and Turkmen partners are stepping up industrial cooperation with a focus on establishing a full-cycle ferrous metallurgy industry in Turkmenistan, according to statements made by Denis Manturov at the International Industrial Exhibition Innoprom Central Asia in Tashkent. Manturov said Russian companies are actively working with Turkmen counterparts not only on steel … [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...]