Diplomatic Review: Ashgabat in Touch with the World

While official Ashgabat is working around the clock to solve complex issues such as the evacuation of foreign citizens from conflict zones in the Middle East and ensuring a "humanitarian corridor," Turkmenistan's diplomatic missions abroad actively continue their work in key areas of foreign policy. The beginning of March has become a highly active period for Turkmen diplomacy: from strategic negotiations in Brussels and Beijing to promoting national values in the academic circles of Bulgaria, Romania, and Central Asian countries.

Beijing: Toward Strategic Trust In Beijing, Turkmenistan's Ambassador to China, Parahat Durdyev, met with China's Assistant Foreign Minister Liu Bin. The parties emphasized that the relationship between the two countries is not limited to economic cooperation but is based on "ancient friendship and brotherhood." They also discussed the schedule of high-level meetings and issues of strengthening cooperation within international organizations.

Brussels: A New Stage of Dialogue with the European Parliament In Brussels, Ambassador Sapar Palvanov held a briefing for members of the European Parliament. The main idea was that cooperation between Turkmenistan and the EU requires a more modern legal framework. Issues of transport connectivity and climate change were also discussed. A parliamentary dialogue involving deputies of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan is expected to start on March 5.

Sofia: Horses and European Dialogue In Sofia, Ambassador Esen Aydogdyev met with the leadership of the Bulgarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Along with discussing the date for the next intergovernmental commission meeting, they officially invited the Bulgarian side to the National Holiday of the Turkmen Horse. Bulgaria confirmed its readiness to strengthen cooperation in medicine and tourism.

Educational Bridge: Bucharest, Bishkek, and Astana Science and youth policy became the main themes of meetings in three capitals:

• In Bucharest, practical cooperation between agricultural universities of both countries was discussed. Romanian veterinarians and agronomists will participate in events held within the year of "Independent, Neutral Turkmenistan - Land of Prosperity."
• In Bishkek, students at Manas University learned about the history of Akhal-Teke horses in a special lecture. Horses are a vital symbol of national identity for the Turkmen people, a topic that sparked great interest among Kyrgyz youth.
• In Astana, Ambassador Batyr Rejepov introduced students to the new book by President Serdar Berdimuhamedov titled "Neutrality of Turkmenistan – a Bright Path of Peace and Trust." Plans for celebrating the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan's Independence in 2026 were also discussed.