Uladzimir Valetka, ECONOMIST In Turkmenistan, systems thinking and strategic foresight have helped the UN Country Team (UNCT) engage the Government more effectively to identify strategic entry points for advancing national development aspirations and accelerating progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This shift did not happen overnight. It followed a phased … [Read more...]
Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan Visits Turkmenistan
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan, Ermek Kosherbaev, is on an official visit to Turkmenistan from 30 June to 1 July 2026. During the visit, a wide range of issues regarding Kazakh-Turkmen cooperation is scheduled for discussion. This includes advancing political dialogue, strengthening trade, economic, and investment ties, expanding cultural and humanitarian … [Read more...]
United Nations and Government of Turkmenistan discuss monitoring of Human Rights Commitments
Ashgabat, 29 June 2026 — Representatives of the national institutions and United Nations agencies have met today to discuss practical approaches to monitor the implementation of Turkmenistan’s human rights commitments under the Universal Periodic Review (UPR). The meeting organized by the UN Resident Coordinator’s office jointly with the Institute of State, Law and … [Read more...]
Begench Karaev: Scientist, Diplomat, and “Architect” of Meaning
Allaberdy Niyazov Friends and colleagues of Begench Saparovich Karaev often jokingly compare him to René Descartes or Gottfried Leibniz. Both of these intellectual giants masterfully balanced mathematical rigor with a profound, humanistic understanding of human nature. In their studies, they always sought a harmony between structural logic and existential purpose. Those who … [Read more...]
Turkmen Delegation Attends the Fourth High-Level Conference of Heads of Counter-Terrorism Agencies of UN Member States
A Turkmen delegation led by the Deputy Minister of National Security of Turkmenistan participated in the Fourth High-Level Conference of Heads of Counter-Terrorism Agencies of Member States, held at the UN Headquarters. On the sidelines of the forum, the delegation also took part in a UN counter-terrorism side-event dedicated to national and regional counter-terrorism … [Read more...]
Dmitry Shlapachenko Completes His Mission as UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan
On 30 June 2026, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Rashid Meredov, met with the UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan, Dmitry Shlapachenko, who is completing his diplomatic mission in the country, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan reports. During the meeting, the sides discussed current issues of interaction between Turkmenistan and the UN … [Read more...]
UNODC Programme Office in Turkmenistan Launches Youth Awareness Week for World Drug Day, Empowering Youth for a Drug-Free Future
Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, 26 June 2026 – The UNODC Programme Office in Turkmenistan together with the Regional Youth Network for Central Asia (RYNCA) Members in Turkmenistan, have launched an engaging “Youth Awareness & Healthy Lifestyle Week” titled “Prevention Starts with Me,” in observance of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, marked annually … [Read more...]
Beyond Geography: Why Operational Efficiency Will Define the Future of the Middle Corridor
Tariq Saeedi and Elvira Kadyrova The first generation of discussions about the Middle Corridor focused largely on geography. Maps were drawn, routes were compared, and countries were identified according to their position along the emerging Eurasian transport corridor. The next generation of discussion must move beyond maps. Transport corridors do not compete because … [Read more...]
President of Turkmenistan Discusses Large-Scale Industrial Projects with Foreign Partners
On Monday, 29 June 2026, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov held a series of meetings with heads of major foreign corporations from Japan, the Republic of Korea, and Türkiye, which are long-standing partners of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the implementation of ongoing projects and prospects for expanding long-term cooperation in the industrial, energy, and construction … [Read more...]
World Leaders and Politicians Congratulate National Leader of Turkmenistan on His Birthday (updated)
On 29 June 2026, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, celebrates his birthday. On the occasion of his 69th birthday, numerous congratulatory messages, telegrams, and phone calls have been pouring in for Arkadag Berdimuhamedov from heads of foreign states, major international organizations, and … [Read more...]
Specifications of tanker presented by Azerbaijan to Turkmenistan
Azerbaijan presented Turkmenistan with an oil tanker on 22 June 2026, during the two-day state visit to Baku by Turkmen President Serdar Berdimuhamedov. The vessel, named Dostlug — the Azeri spelling of "friendship" — was built at the Baku Shipyard. It has an overall length of 141 meters, a width of 16.9 meters, and a draft of 4.54 meters. Its deadweight stands at 7,875 … [Read more...]
WCO Highlights Key Role of Regional Training Center in Turkmenistan
The Chairman of the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan, Maksat Khudaykulyev, met with the Secretary General of the World Customs Organization (WCO), Ian Saunders, in Brussels. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the 147th and 148th sessions of the WCO Council, held from 25 to 27 June 2026. This was reported by the Embassy of Turkmenistan to Belgium and the State … [Read more...]
Air Belgium Prepares to Launch Cargo Operations via Ashgabat
The Belgian charter airline Air Belgium may launch cargo flights through Ashgabat International Airport as early as the beginning of August 2026. The prospects for starting these operations were discussed during a meeting between the Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Belgium, Sapar Palvanov, and the CEO of Air Belgium, Georges Chachati. The technical framework for the transit … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan’s Delegation Attends Dubrovnik Forum “The Age of Multipolarity: Many Directions, One Future”
On 26–27 June 2026, a delegation from Turkmenistan led by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Mahri Bashimova participated in the international Dubrovnik Forum themed "The Age of Multipolarity: Many Directions, One Future" in Croatia, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan reports. The forum brought together high-ranking government and foreign ministry … [Read more...]
Ashgabat Hosts First “Chinese Ambassador’s Scholarship” Award Ceremony
The Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Turkmenistan hosted the first award ceremony for the "Chinese Ambassador's Scholarship" for 2026. The program was established to support Turkmen youth studying the Chinese language. The laureates and guests were welcomed by the Ambassador of China to Turkmenistan Ji Shumin. The selection of the recipients was based on a … [Read more...]
Grandmaster from Turkmenistan Meylis Annaberdiyev Wins Prestigious Rigó János Tournament in Hungary
Meylis Annaberdiyev secured a convincing victory at the prestigious international chess tournament, the 5th Rigó János Memorial GM-B, which took place from 20 to 26 June 2026 in Balatonlelle, Hungary. The competition was held as a round-robin tournament with a time control of 90 minutes plus a 30-second increment per move, starting from move one. The tournament was … [Read more...]
Time Is the Missing Ingredient: Why Central Asia Needs Turkmenistan’s Proposed Environmental Institutions Now
Tariq Saeedi and Elvira Kadyrova Climate change is often discussed in terms of future risks. In Central Asia and the Caspian region, however, many of its consequences are no longer matters of prediction—they are present realities. Desertification, land degradation, water stress, biodiversity loss, extreme weather events, and the growing frequency of dust and salt storms are … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Advances Digitalization and AI in Oil and Gas Sector
Turkmenistan is accelerating the digital transformation of its oil and gas industry, with artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced digital technologies being introduced across the hydrocarbon value chain as part of the country's development strategy through 2030. According to an article published by the website of the Turkmengeologia State Corporation, digitalization now … [Read more...]
Rail Cargo Between Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan Surges Amid Corridor Development
Rail freight traffic between Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan has recorded robust growth in the first months of 2026, underscoring the strengthening of regional trade links and the expanding role of the eastern branch of the North-South International Transport Corridor. According to Kazakhstan Temir Zholy (KTZ), the national railway operator, bilateral rail cargo volumes with … [Read more...]
Brussels Opens New Chapter in Europe-Central Asia Connectivity
nCa Report When European Commission officials welcomed transport ministers and diplomats to Brussels last Monday, the occasion was more than a routine policy gathering. The launch of the Connectivity Agenda Platform on 23 June marked a concrete step in the EU's long-running effort to build trade routes that bypass Russia and knit together two regions that have historically … [Read more...]
Crossroads by Design: How Turkmenistan Is Repositioning Itself at the Heart of Eurasian Trade
Tariq Saeedi and Elvira Kadyrova There is a question that tends to get lost in all the excitement around the Middle Corridor — the overland trade route linking China to Europe through Central Asia and the Caucasus. Governments trumpet new investments, analysts debate geopolitical implications, and logistics companies eye the route as an alternative to increasingly fragile … [Read more...]
Substantial Progress on Landmark Electricity Transmission Project from Turkmenistan to Afghanistan
Afghanistan’s state-owned power utility, Da Afghanistan Breshna Sherkat (DABS), has reported substantial progress on the landmark 500-kilovolt (kV) electricity transmission project from Turkmenistan, describing it as one of the country’s most critical energy infrastructure initiatives. According to DABS, the first phase of the project has been completed, while the second … [Read more...]
Turkmen and Finnish Universities Establish New Academic Partnership
The International University for Humanities and Development of Turkmenistan has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Finland’s HAUS Finnish Institute of Public Administration and Laurea University of Applied Sciences. According to TDH, the agreement was concluded during an online signing ceremony. The memorandum provides a framework for cooperation in higher education, … [Read more...]
Former Japan-Turkmen Friendship League Chairman Honored with Turkmen Jubilee Medal in Tokyo
A ceremony was held on 25 June 2026 at Japan’s National Diet building in Tokyo to present the Turkmen commemorative medal “Türkmenistanyň Bitaraplygynyň 30 ýyllygyna” and a commemorative silver coin to former Chairman of the Japan–Turkmen Parliamentary Friendship League, Toshiaki Endo. The information was reported by TDH. The event brought together officials from … [Read more...]
Turkmen Ambassador Highlights Growing Cooperation During Visit to China’s Hubei Province
A Turkmen delegation led by Ambassador of Turkmenistan to China, Parahat Durdyev, participated in a series of events in China’s Hubei Province on 24 June 2026 as part of a large-scale familiarization program showcasing the province’s economic and development potential. According to THP, the visit included an official meeting in Wuhan hosted by Hubei Provincial Party … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan and Ukraine Review Bilateral Cooperation at Political Consultations in Ashgabat
Turkmenistan and Ukraine reaffirmed their interest in expanding bilateral cooperation during a series of diplomatic meetings and political consultations held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan on Thursday. Turkmen Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov met with Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Oleksandr Mishchenko and the Special Representative of Ukraine’s Foreign … [Read more...]
Turkmen Charitable Foundation Expands International Humanitarian Partnerships
The Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Care strengthened its international humanitarian engagement on 25 June by holding separate meetings with senior representatives of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), China and the State of Palestine, underscoring its growing role in advancing children's healthcare, social … [Read more...]
Arkadag Berdimuhamedov and Aliyev Discuss Bilateral Cooperation in Follow-Up to Landmark Presidential Visit
The National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, also known as Arkadag, held a telephone conversation with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev on 25 June, according to official reports issued by both countries. During the conversation, the two leaders highlighted the importance of the traditionally … [Read more...]
China, Turkmenistan Complete Joint Scientific Survey in Karakum Desert
Researchers from China's Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography (XIEG) and Turkmenistan's National Institute of Deserts, Flora, and Fauna have completed a 16-day joint scientific expedition in the Karakum Desert, focusing on desertification and biodiversity. According to XIEG, the survey collected data on wild plant and animal species, soil profiles, dune evolution, and … [Read more...]
Türkmennebit Modernizes Caspian Infrastructure at Uzynada Field
As Turkmenistan prepares to mark the 35th anniversary of its independence, the state concern Türkmennebit has taken a significant step forward in modernizing its energy infrastructure on the Caspian coast. The Gumdagnebit Oil and Gas Production Department (OGPD), operating under the Nebitgazçykaryş trust in the Balkan velayat, has commissioned a new gas condensate separation … [Read more...]
Kazakhstan–Turkmenistan Business Forum Boosts Economic Cooperation
Business representatives from Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan met in Astana on 24 June 2026 for the Kazakhstan–Turkmenistan Business Forum, an event aimed at deepening trade and economic cooperation and expanding ties between the private sectors of the two countries. Organized with the support of the Chamber of International Commerce of Kazakhstan and the QazTrade Center for … [Read more...]
High-Level Dialogue in Turkmenistan Explores Water Scenarios and Food Security Risks
Government representatives of Turkmenistan, the United Nations, development partners and international financial institutions convened today for a high-level joint expert dialogue to discuss integrated water scenarios and cascading effects on related sectors across water and food security, agriculture, jobs and livelihoods, social protection, environment and … [Read more...]
Turkmen Officials Complete Italy-Based Training on Sustainable Agriculture and Governance
A group of Turkmen civil servants participated in advanced training programs in Italy aimed at strengthening sustainable agricultural development, institutional governance, and climate resilience, according to an article by Zalila Rozyeva, Senior Lecturer at the Academy of Public Administration under the President of Turkmenistan, published by THP. The training was conducted … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Strengthens Ties with International Development Institutions at OPEC Fund Forum in Vienna
A high-level Turkmen delegation led by Rahimberdi Jepbarov, Chairman of the State Bank for Foreign Economic Affairs of Turkmenistan, participated in the OPEC Fund Development Forum 2026 held in Vienna on 23 June, underscoring the country's growing engagement with international financial and development institutions. According to information released by THP, the delegation … [Read more...]
Turkmen Parliamentarians Join Beijing Seminar on China-Central Asia Cooperation
A delegation from the Mejlis of Turkmenistan is participating in an international seminar titled "Enhancing the Role of Legislative Bodies and Strengthening China-Central Asia Cooperation," held in Beijing from June 22 to 28. The event was organized by the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress of the People's Republic of China for parliamentary representatives … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Ambassador Meets U.S. Senator Steve Daines in Washington
Ambassador of Turkmenistan to the United States Esen Aydogdyyev held a meeting with U.S. Senator Steve Daines at the Senator's office in Washington, D.C., the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Washington confirmed. According to the Embassy, the two sides discussed ways to further strengthen bilateral relations between Turkmenistan and the United States across a broad range of … [Read more...]
A meeting with the Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan
On June 24, 2026, a meeting was held between the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Rashid Meredov and the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Federal Republic of Germany to Turkmenistan Bernd Heins, who is completing his diplomatic mission in the country. During the conversation, the parties discussed current issues of cooperation and priority areas … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan and Georgia discussed key issues in financial and economic cooperation
On 24 June 2026, a meeting was held between Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to Georgia D.Seyitmammedov and Minister of Finance of Georgia L.Khutsishvili. During the meeting, the parties discussed the current state of bilateral cooperation in the financial and economic sphere, as well as prospects for its further development. Particular … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan Deepen Strategic Partnership as Berdimuhamedov Concludes State Visit
President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov concluded his two-day state visit to Azerbaijan on Tuesday, wrapping up a program that highlighted the growing strategic partnership between the two Caspian nations and underscored their expanding cooperation in energy, transport, trade, and cultural affairs. The visit, held at the invitation of Azerbaijani President Ilham … [Read more...]
Complete list of documents signed by Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan
Here is the complete list of documents signed by Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan during the visit of President Berdimuhamedov on 23 June 2026: … [Read more...]
UNODC Facilitates Thailand Study Tour for Turkmen Border and Drug Control Officials
Senior officials from several Turkmen law enforcement and border management agencies have completed a study tour to Thailand aimed at strengthening international cooperation against illicit drug trafficking and other forms of transnational crime. The delegation included representatives of Turkmenistan's State Drug Control Service, State Customs Service, State Migration … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Showcases Export Potential at Korea Import Expo 2026 in Seoul
Turkmenistan has opened its national pavilion at the Korea Import Expo 2026, an international import trade exhibition that began on 23 June at the COEX Exhibition Center in Seoul, according to information from the Embassy of Turkmenistan in the Republic of Korea. The opening ceremony was attended by senior representatives of the Korean business community, including … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Secures $314,000 World Bank Deal to Upgrade Economic Data Systems
As reported by THP, Turkmenistan's Finance and Economy Minister Mammetguly Astanagulov met with World Bank officials to finalize an advisory agreement worth $314,000 aimed at aligning the country's national accounts with SNA-2025 international standards and refining GDP measurement methods. Discussions also touched on a broader cooperation roadmap spanning green economy … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan and World Bank Team Up to Modernize National Statistics
THP reports that Turkmenistan's State Statistics Committee has entered into an advisory partnership with the World Bank Group covering 2026–2027, with the goal of bringing the country's statistical practices in line with international SNA-2025 standards. The initiative will focus on updating how GDP is calculated, refining price monitoring methods, and improving purchasing … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan Elevate Strategic Partnership During President Serdar Berdimuhamedov’s State Visit
[Final Version] The state visit of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov of Turkmenistan to Azerbaijan has emerged as a landmark event in the modern history of relations between the two Caspian neighbors, producing a broad package of agreements, new transport and maritime initiatives, and a strong reaffirmation of the strategic partnership between Ashgabat and Baku. Hosted by … [Read more...]
IMF Mission Highlights Turkmenistan’s Economic Resilience and Path Forward
An International Monetary Fund (IMF) staff team, led by Ms. Anna Bordon, recently concluded a productive visit to Turkmenistan from June 4 to 16, 2026, as part of the 2026 Article IV consultation. The mission reviewed the country’s economic performance, outlook, and policy priorities aimed at fostering diverse, inclusive, and sustainable growth. Discussions with senior … [Read more...]
Ashgabat Hosts Day of Remembrance and Mourning Ceremony
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...]
The 18th Human Rights Dialogue between Turkmenistan and the European Union took place
On June 22, 2026, the 18th Human Rights Dialogue between Turkmenistan and the European Union was held in the building of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. Representatives of relevant ministries and departments of Turkmenistan took part in the dialogue. The co-chairs of the Dialogue, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Myahri Byashimova … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan–Azerbaijan Relations Reach New Milestone as President Serdar Berdimuhamedov Pays State Visit to Baku
[This is developing story. Final version will be published on 23 June 2026] The state visit of Turkmen President Serdar Berdimuhamedov to Azerbaijan on 22 June has already produced a substantial package of political, economic, transport and humanitarian outcomes, underscoring the rapidly deepening strategic partnership between the two Caspian neighbors. Azerbaijani media … [Read more...]
President Serdar Berdimuhamedov Begins State Visit to Azerbaijan, Signaling New Momentum in Strategic Caspian Partnership
President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov arrived in Azerbaijan on Monday for a state visit that both sides are expected to use to deepen cooperation across energy, transport, trade, and cultural exchanges. His aircraft landed at Heydar Aliyev International Airport, where he was welcomed by Azerbaijani officials and members of the Turkmen delegation. According to … [Read more...]