While the world faces fragmentation, Georgia and Turkmenistan continue to build strong economic bridges: at a reception honoring the Independence Day of Georgia in Ashgabat, Ambassador Konstantine Sabiashvili announced that a major Turkmen-Georgian business forum and exhibition will be held in Tbilisi as early as July this year. The Ambassador Extraordinary and … [Read more...]
Digitalization, Navigation, and Transport Corridors: Key Takeaways from the CIS Summit in Ashgabat
Ashgabat took center stage today as the premier diplomatic and business hub for the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). The meeting of the CIS Council of Heads of Government sparked a wave of rapid-fire bilateral talks, paving the way for full-scale multilateral discussions. Delegations focused on pivotal issues, ultimately sealing agreements that will reshape regional … [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...]
Kazakhstan and Kenya Build an Economic Bridge Between Central Asia and Africa: Outcomes of the Tokayev-Ruto Summit Talks in Astana
Astana has become the venue for a major geopolitical and economic event, hosting the President of Kenya, William Ruto, on a state visit. This historic, first-ever visit by a Kenyan leader to the Central Asian republic marks the beginning of a new milestone in interregional partnership. On 20 May 2026, the leaders of the two countries, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and William Ruto, … [Read more...]
Central Asia’s International Freight Volume Set to Increase by Around 50% by 2030 – EDB
By 2030, international freight volumes in Central Asia could increase by approximately 50%, while container traffic is projected to grow by nearly 70%. This was announced by Margulan Abdirov, Senior Executive Director of the Transport, Industry, and Infrastructure Directorate at the Eurasian Development Bank (EDB), during his remarks at the ESE ASIA 2026 international forum in … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Modernizes Two Customs Posts on Borders with Iran and Kazakhstan
As part of the phased modernization of customs checkpoints located along international transport corridors crossing Turkmenistan, upgrading works have been completed at the "Artyk" and "Garabogaz" customs posts. This was reported by the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan. The Garabogaz highway checkpoint — the "Garabogaz" customs post — is located in the Balkan province … [Read more...]
Exclusive Interview – Lee Won-jae, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea in Turkmenistan
Today, our series featuring heads of diplomatic missions in Turkmenistan continues with an exclusive interview with Lee Won-jae, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea in Turkmenistan. nCa: Ambassador Lee Won-jae, Welcome to Turkmenistan. --- With your rich and versatile experience and your remarkable achievements, I am sure you will elevate the Korea-Turkmenistan … [Read more...]
Supply Chains Are Becoming Intelligent — And Central Asia Is Joining the Transformation
nCa Report The modern economy runs on supply chains. Every product we use — from food and medicines to smartphones and automobiles — travels through a long network of producers, transporters, warehouses, ports, customs systems, wholesalers, retailers, and finally consumers. For decades, supply chains were managed through paperwork, telephone calls, spreadsheets, and … [Read more...]
China’s western rail gateway speeds freight links to Europe, Central Asia
Freight train traffic through Alashankou, also known as Alataw Pass, a key rail gateway in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, has surpassed 3,000 trips so far this year, reaching the milestone 19 days earlier than in 2025. This reflects steadily rising demand for reliable overland trade routes to Europe and Central Asia, reports Xinhua. A China-Europe … [Read more...]
A New Step on the Great Silk Road: Dry Cargo Vessel “Gadamly” Joins Turkmenistan’s Merchant Fleet
On Friday, 8 May, the Turkmenbashi International Seaport hosted a commissioning ceremony for the new dry cargo vessel Gadamly, the latest addition to Turkmenistan’s domestically built fleet. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov attended the event to oversee the vessel’s entry into service. In his address, the President emphasized that "the commissioning of new cargo vessels … [Read more...]
The Silk Road Worked Because It Belonged to Everyone
Tariq Saeedi There is a growing tendency today to speak about trade corridors as instruments of strategy, influence, and competition. Maps are drawn with arrows pointing around rivals, past adversaries, and away from inconvenient neighbors. Connectivity is increasingly discussed in the language of exclusion. History offers a different lesson. What we now call the … [Read more...]
President of Turkmenistan Receives Georgian Minister of Economy
On 7 May, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov received the Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia, Mariam Kvrivishvili, who is in Ashgabat on an official visit. According to the Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia, the sides discussed the traditionally close and friendly relations between the two nations, which are … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Interested in Developing Logistics Hubs at Georgian Ports
On 7 May, during the official visit of the Georgian delegation to Ashgabat, the Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan, Nokerguly Atagulyev, met with the Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia, Mariam Kvrivishvili. During the talks, the parties discussed a wide range of opportunities for deepening economic cooperation between the two … [Read more...]
The Ashgabat Corridor Revisited: A Quiet Artery Gains Strategic Weight
nCa Report In an era defined by shifting trade routes and geopolitical uncertainty, an old regional initiative is quietly re-emerging with renewed relevance. The Ashgabat Agreement corridor—linking Central Asia to the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman—has moved back into focus as countries seek resilient, diversified pathways for trade. What began in 2011 as a modest … [Read more...]
New Multimodal Corridor: Cargo from China to Afghanistan to Transit via Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan
As part of the strategy to diversify transport and logistics corridors in the region, a new multimodal route has been launched for the delivery of containerized cargo from China to Afghanistan. The new path is designed to be a more efficient alternative to traditional maritime shipping. This was reported by Uztemiryulkonteyner (the container fleet operator of Uzbekistan … [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...]
Investing in Sustainable Transport: Unlocking Turkmenistan’s Potential for Trade and Job Growth
At the Turkmenistan Investment Forum (Awaza, 18-19 Sep 2025), Uladzimir Valetka, Economist at the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office in Turkmenistan, emphasized the transformative power of sustainable transport in fostering trade, creating jobs, and driving inclusive economic growth. His speech highlighted Turkmenistan’s strategic role as a regional transit hub and … [Read more...]
TIF 2025: Turkmenistan’s Transport Strategy – Integrating into the Global Network
Elvira Kadyrova and Ravilya Kadyrova Awaza, September 18, 2025 – At the Turkmenistan Investment Forum (TIF 2025), Turkmenistan’s Minister of Railway Transport, Mammet Akammedov, unveiled the country’s logistics strategy, aimed at modernizing the transport sector and strengthening its role in global connectivity. Turkmenistan is actively implementing national programs to … [Read more...]
TIF 2025: Turkmenistan Modernizes Road Infrastructure to Become a Key Eurasian Transit Hub
Elvira Kadyrova and Ravilya Kadyrova Awaza, September 18 – At the Turkmenistan Investment Forum (TIF 2025), held in Awaza, Dovran Ataev, Deputy Chairman of the State Agency for the Management of Highway Construction, spoke about the large-scale modernization of the country's road infrastructure. According to him, Turkmenistan is actively working to bring its … [Read more...]
Record Growth in Freight Transport: China and Central Asia Strengthen Logistics Ties
In the first eight months of 2025, freight trains between China and Central Asia made 9,626 cross-border trips—an increase of 22.7% compared to the same period last year, setting a new record for this timeframe. During this period, 751,000 standard containers (TEU) were transported, marking a year-on-year growth of 31.1%, according to China Media Group. As of 31 August 2025, … [Read more...]