Turkmenistan's foreign trade and transit potential continues to demonstrate steady growth. According to the latest data from the State Customs Service, by the end of 2025, the total volume of cargo passing through the country's state borders reached 20 million tons. This figure marks the highest achievement for the transport sector since 2019. Experts are paying particular … [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...]
In Istanbul, Transport Ministers of Uzbekistan, Iran, and Türkiye Agree to Accelerate the Development of the “Uzbekistan–Turkmenistan–Iran–Türkiye” Corridor
On the sidelines of the second meeting of Transport Ministers of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Istanbul, a trilateral meeting was held between the Minister of Transport of Uzbekistan, Ilkhom Makhkamov, the Minister of Roads and Urban Development of Iran, Farzaneh Sadegh, and the Minister of Transport and Infrastructure of Türkiye, Abdulkadir Uraloğlu. The … [Read more...]
6.3% GDP Growth and 41 Billion Manats in Investment: Turkmenistan’s Economic Targets for 2026
At an expanded Cabinet of Ministers meeting on 13 February 2026, the President of Turkmenistan officially approved the “Program for Socio-Economic Development and Investment for 2026.” This roadmap outlines the nation's key macroeconomic targets, industrial production quotas, and capital expenditure for the year. Macroeconomic Targets and Key Indicators The 2026 strategy … [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...]
Iran Unveils Major Container Terminal at Sarakhs border with Turkmenistan to Boost Central Asia Trade Links
Iran has established a significant new container transport complex at Sarakhs, a strategic border town with Turkmenistan in northeastern Iran, positioning the Islamic Republic as a crucial transit hub between China, Central Asia, and Europe, according to recent reports. The terminal, currently being constructed by China on the Iran-Turkmenistan border, marks a major … [Read more...]
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...]
Saudi Delta International Eyes Investment in TAPI Gas Pipeline and Gwadar Gas Hub
Saudi Arabia’s Delta International has expressed formal interest in investing in Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline project. The statement came today, Sunday, 1 February 2026, during a high-level diplomatic meeting in Herat Province. Afghanistan’s Deputy PM for Economic Affairs, Abdul Ghani Baradar Akhund, met with Turkmenistan’s Deputy Prime … [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...]
ECO Accelerates Implementation of the Awaza Programme of Action: Outcomes of the Meeting in Tehran
The issue of implementing the Awaza Programme of Action for landlocked developing countries (2024–2034) in the ECO region was discussed at the meeting of the Council of Permanent Representatives of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO), held on 27 January 2026, at the ECO Secretariat in Tehran. Ambassadors and permanent representatives of ECO member states were … [Read more...]
Ambassador Ahmet Demirok Calls for Accelerated Efforts to Enhance Middle Corridor Efficiency
During a press conference in Ashgabat, the Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye, Ahmet Demirok, named the transport sector as one of the priority vectors of bilateral cooperation. Special attention was paid to the development of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (Middle Corridor), an initiative that is garnering increasing global interest. The diplomat … [Read more...]
Expansion of Transit Potential for Turkmenbashi and Alyat Ports Discussed in Baku
A delegation from Turkmenistan led by Parahat Jumayev, Director of the Turkmenbashi International Seaport, currently on a working visit to Azerbaijan, held a meeting with Eldar Salakhov, Director of Baku International Sea Trade Port CJSC. The meeting was also attended by the Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Azerbaijan, Gurbanmammet Elyasov, according to the Ministry of Foreign … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Actively Expands Transit Potential and International Freight Transport
The Ministry of Railway Transport of Turkmenistan is consistently working to increase freight volumes along key international transport corridors, primarily the "North–South" route. Special emphasis is placed on growing transit and international cargo flows, expanding the range of services, and creating competitive tariff conditions for shippers and carriers. Significant … [Read more...]
From the Caspian to the Persian Gulf: Kazakhstan and Iran Advance Logistics Projects
Elvira Kadyrova Astana and Tehran are intensifying efforts to strengthen transport and logistics links, positioning Iran as a key gateway for Kazakhstan. In a recent meeting, Kazakhstan’s Ambassador to Iran Ontalap Onalbayev discussed expanding bilateral connectivity with Iran's Minister of Roads and Urban Development Farzaneh Sadegh. According to Kazakhstan's Foreign … [Read more...]
Minutes, not maps: making borders work for the Middle Corridor
Freight flows are realigning around new trade routes, but borders remain the weakest link. IRU presented concrete measures to streamline freight flows along the increasingly important Middle Corridor at a major Turkic Week event in Vienna. The Middle Corridor is responding to shifting global supply chains, geopolitical risks and the demand for resilient land routes. Since … [Read more...]
Airspace of Iran
nCa Report Key Points Overview of Traffic and Revenue Iran's airspace serves as a vital link for global aviation, but the 2025 conflict introduced uncertainties. Current estimates indicate recovery toward pre-conflict levels, with fees supporting infrastructure. For details, see sources like Safe Airspace and OPS Group. Diversion Implications Diversions during … [Read more...]
Importance of Iran as Transit Territory
nCa Report Iran serves as a critical transit hub connecting the Middle East, Central Asia, South Asia, the Caucasus, and Europe through a network of land, rail, and sea routes. Its strategic location facilitates the efficient movement of goods, supporting regional trade and economic integration. Over the last three years (2023-2025), Iran's transit infrastructure has seen … [Read more...]
Tokayev: Kazakhstan is Actively Developing Key Transit Corridors of Eurasia
President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, in an interview with the newspaper "Turkistan", spoke in detail about the strategic importance of the country's transit and logistics potential and its participation in international transport projects. Answering a question about priorities in the field of transit and logistics, the head of state emphasized that for landlocked … [Read more...]
China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan (CKU) Railway: A Strategic Connectivity Project
nCa Short Report The China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan (CKU) railway is a pivotal infrastructure project designed to boost trade and economic ties across Central Asia, connecting China directly with Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan. Initially proposed in the 1990s, it has gained significant traction as part of China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), aiming to create alternative trade … [Read more...]
Initiatives of the President of Turkmenistan at the Tokyo Summit: From “Green Diplomacy” to Youth Exchanges
The address by President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov at the historic first "Central Asia + Japan" leaders' summit was dedicated to strengthening the multifaceted partnership between the regions. The President emphasized that this meeting in Tokyo, chaired by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, was a milestone event laying the foundation for long-term relations … [Read more...]
Central Asia emerges as Powerhouse in Aviation World
Central Asia is quietly becoming a powerhouse in the aviation world, emerging as the fastest-growing market globally over the past two decades, even though it's still the smallest region in terms of total scheduled seats. According to a recent analysis from OAG, the region is on track to offer 33.7 million seats in 2025, fueled by a compound annual growth rate of 7.7%—that's … [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...]
UAE’s DP World Signs Deal to Modernize Afghanistan’s Key Trade Ports
Taliban-ruled Afghanistan is set to enhance its trade capabilities with Central Asian states and Pakistan through a new agreement with Dubai-based logistics giant DP World, as reported by multiple sources. Ariana News reports that the Ministry of Finance of Afghanistan and UAE-based DP World signed an investment term sheet on December 7 to modernize key commercial land … [Read more...]
Uzbekistan Develops Container Transportation to Europe via Turkmenbashi Port: 18 Block Trains Dispatched in 2025
JSC "Uztemiryo'lkonteyner," the operator of the container fleet for the Uzbekistan railways, successfully organized regular container shipments from Uzbekistan to European countries in 2025 via the seaport of Turkmenistan on the Caspian Sea – the Port of Turkmenbashi. In total, 18 block trains carrying mineral fertilizers, potassium, carbamide, aluminum, and copper … [Read more...]
Kazakhstan Launches Modernized Border Checkpoints with Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan
Elvira Kadyrova Kazakhstan has commissioned two upgraded automobile border checkpoints: "Kazygurt" on the border with Uzbekistan and "Temir-Baba" on the border with Turkmenistan, according to the official website of the Prime Minister of Kazakhstan. The upgrades have reduced border crossing times to as little as 30 minutes thanks to the introduction of new … [Read more...]
Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan: a strategic partnership that strengthens the region
In recent years, cooperation between the Republic of Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan has been experiencing a new, truly rapid stage of development. Today, bilateral relations are no longer limited to just diplomatic ties — they have acquired a complex character: from joint economic, transport and logistics projects to large-scale cultural initiatives that strengthen friendship and … [Read more...]
Transport integration in Central Asia: the contribution of Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan
Ibrahimova Dildora, Head of the Centre for Transport and Logistics Development Studies at the Ministry of Transport of the Republic of Uzbekistan Transport cooperation between Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan is now taking on strategic importance, shaping a new architecture of connectivity in Central Asia and creating additional opportunities for the region to enter the wider … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Leads Central Asia with Fastest Customs Transit Times, GIZ Study Shows
Turkmenistan has the fastest customs transit processing in Central Asia, with an average clearance time of just 37 minutes, according to a new study conducted by the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) between August and October 2025. The State Customs Service of Turkmenistan released the findings on 4 Dec, highlighting the country’s continuing leadership in … [Read more...]
ADB-Turkmenistan – 25 Years of Partnership
For 25 years, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of Turkmenistan have partnered to meet the country's critical development needs. Since Turkmenistan became a member of ADB in 2000, the bank has helped the country progress on its path toward sustainable economic and social development. ADB has contributed toward improving transport infrastructure, strengthening … [Read more...]
We look with optimism towards the future of the Romanian-Turkmen cooperation, says Ambassador Ion Naval
Ambassador Ion Naval of Romania to Turkmenistan hosted a reception on 1 December 2022 to mark the National Day of Romania. The chief guest representing the Government of Turkmenistan was Mammetguly Astanagulow, Minister of Finance and Economy and Co-Chairman of the Turkmen side of the Romanian-Turkmen Intergovernmental Commission on Economic, Scientific and Technical … [Read more...]
“Specialized Logistics 2025”: The Association “Turkmen Logistics” and GIZ strengthen the potential of the transport industry
The Turkmen Logistics Association, in partnership with the GIZ (German Agency for International Cooperation) Regional Project on Trade Facilitation in Central Asian countries, has successfully completed the cycle of intensive training courses "Specialized Logistics 2025". The event, which lasted from 25 to 27 November 2025, was aimed at improving the skills of specialists from … [Read more...]
State Visit of the President of Turkmenistan to Kazakhstan: A New Chapter in Strategic Partnership
On 24–25 November 2025, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov paid a state visit to the Republic of Kazakhstan at the invitation of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. The summit talks were held at the Akorda Palace on 25 November, in a narrow and an expanded formats with the participation of official delegations. Both leaders emphasized the special closeness of … [Read more...]
Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan Forge Closer Economic Ties, Focus on $1 Billion Trade and New Transit Corridors
Deputy Prime Ministers of Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan met in Astana today to accelerate economic partnership, setting their sights on a $1 billion trade target and securing vital logistics routes. Serik Zhumangarin, Kazakhstan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Economy, held discussions with Khodjamyrat Geldimyradov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers … [Read more...]
China and Turkmenistan intend to deepen transport cooperation
On 7 November, Ambassador of China to Turkmenistan Ji Shumin paid a visit to the Minister of Motor Transport of Turkmenistan Begench Annadurdyev, the Chinese Embassy in Turkmenistan reports. During the meeting, the parties exchanged views on further deepening bilateral and multilateral cooperation in the transport sector. The meeting was also attended by Counselor-Envoy of … [Read more...]
Outcomes of the State Visit of the President of Turkmenistan to Uzbekistan: Mirziyoyev Awards Berdimuhamedov Uzbekistan’s Highest State Order – First Joint Border Trade Zone Launched
On 17 November 2025, in Tashkent, on the second day of the state visit of the President of Turkmenistan to the Republic of Uzbekistan, high-level talks were held between President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. The meeting, which took place first in a narrow format and then in an expanded format with the participation of official delegations, … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Advances Digital Transformation and Transport Connectivity at Major International Forums
nCa Report Turkmenistan is showcasing its ambitions as a digital and logistics hub through two parallel international forums currently underway in the capital: the 18th International Exhibition and Scientific Conference "Türkmentel-2025" and the International Conference and Exhibition "International Transport Corridors: Connectivity and Development – 2025" (ITTC … [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...]
Great Milestone in Maritime History of Turkmenistan – First Domestically Built Cargo Ship Launched
nCa Report On November 4, 2025, Turkmenistan marked a major milestone in its maritime history with the launching ceremony of the "Gadamly", the country's first domestically built cargo ship, an event that's being hailed as a symbol of national progress and international collaboration. This dry cargo vessel, with a carrying capacity of 6,100 tons and designed specifically … [Read more...]
The 24th meeting of the Turkmenistan–European Union Joint Committee was held in Ashgabat
On 7 November 2025, the 24th meeting of the Turkmenistan-European Union Joint Committee was held in Ashgabat. The delegation of Turkmenistan was headed by Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy B.Yalakov. The delegation of the European Union was headed by Audrone Percauskene, Deputy Managing Director for Eastern Europe and Central Asia of the European External Action … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Strengthens the Eurasian North-South Corridor: Foundation Laid for the Turkmenbashi–Garabogaz Highway Section, Bridge over Garabogazköl Bay Put into Operation
Turkmenistan is realizing a number of important transport projects in the western part of the country, aimed at improving connectivity within the country, as well as on a regional scale and within the framework of overall connectivity in Eurasia along the North-South route directions. On 2 November 2025, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov, visiting the Balkan … [Read more...]
New China-Central Asia Transport Corridor Launches Trial Operations
Seven trucks carrying containers departed from the Kashi International Hub Port in northwestern China's Xinjiang region on October 15, marking the launch of a trial international transport service connecting China, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan, according to Chinese state media reports. The multimodal transport corridor represents a significant development in … [Read more...]
Transit Through Central Asia Surges by 70% from 2020 to 2024
Central Asia is rapidly emerging as a key transit hub in Eurasia, proving that a lack of sea access is no barrier to economic growth. Thanks to its unique geographical position at the heart of the continent and the active implementation of infrastructure projects, the region is experiencing remarkable growth in transit transportation. According to data from the Eurasian … [Read more...]
Central Asia and China Open New Logistics Routes: Trial Launch of Multimodal Corridor to Turkmenistan
On Wednesday, 15 October, the trial operation of the international multimodal transport corridor linking China, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan officially launched, according to Xinhua. The corridor features two multimodal routes, with goods transported by rail from Xi’an (Shaanxi Province, Northwest China) and Chengdu (Sichuan Province, Southwest China) to Kashgar … [Read more...]
China-Europe Freight Train Marks 50,000th Trip from Horgos Port
A China-Europe freight train loaded with electronic products, mechanical and electrical equipment, and daily necessities departed from the Horgos Railway Port in Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region for Małaszewicze, Poland, on Saturday, marking the 50,000th train to pass through the port since operations began in March 2016, according to the Global Times. The … [Read more...]
Doors to Asia and Europe: Turkmenistan’s Transport Strategy as the Foundation for Global Connectivity – Expert Opinion
Sapa Gurbanberdiyev, Deputy Chairman of the “Türkmen logistika” Association One of the key factors determining a country’s competitiveness in today’s geo-economic landscape, including Turkmenistan, is sustainable transport connectivity and efficient logistics. Robust and reliable transport systems are also vital for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, including … [Read more...]
Report: China and Central Asia Railway Connections
nCa-AI Collaborative Report Key Points Current Railway Connections The primary links are at Alashankou-Dostyk and Khorgos-Altynkol, both on the China-Kazakhstan border. These handle the vast majority of rail cargo between China and Central Asia. A third crossing, Bakhty-Chuguchak, is being developed to increase capacity. No direct rail connections exist yet to … [Read more...]
Astrakhan Region Strengthens Strategic Partnership with Turkmenistan
During the celebrations of Turkmenistan's Independence Day, Denis Afanasyev, Vice-Governor and Chairman of the Government of the Astrakhan Region (Russia) visited Ashgabat. “Turkmenistan is our strategic partner and reliable friend. We place priority importance on our cooperation,” Afanasyev wrotw on his social media. As part of the visit, Afanasyev met with the Deouty Prime … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Proposes Cooperation with Kuwait in Energy and Transport Projects
During his working visit to New York, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov met with the Crown Prince of the State of Kuwait, Sheikh Sabah Al-Khalid Al-Sabah. In discussing the prospects for bilateral cooperation, President Berdimuhamedov highlighted Turkmenistan’s strategic advantages: “The favorable geographic location of our country and its rich natural … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan-Pakistan Relations – Beyond Platitudes: Credible Partnership – Strategic Goals
Dr Faryal Leghari, Pakistan’s Ambassador to Turkmenistan As Turkmenistan celebrates its 34th Independence this year, it would also be celebrating its 30th Anniversary of Permanent Neutrality in December. Significantly, it was in Pakistan’s capital Islamabad, that Turkmenistan proposed its policy of Neutrality at the ECO Summit in 1995. It is an opportune time to pause and … [Read more...]