Turkmenistan consistently continues its work on implementing economic initiatives put forward within international and regional organizations. Among them is the initiative to create joint trade zones aimed at developing trade and economic relations between the member states of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO).

This proposal by Turkmenistan aims to expand interregional trade relations, increase the potential of cross-border trade, and further develop mutually beneficial economic cooperation among ECO member states.

In late August 2026, during a working trip by ECO Secretary General Asad Majeed Khan and the Ambassador of Turkmenistan to the Islamic Republic of Iran to Iran's Golestan Province, a series of meetings and negotiations were held in this direction. The meetings discussed future directions for implementing the initiative to establish a joint trade zone.

During the talks, it was noted that the creation of such a trade zone will make it possible to increase trade turnover in the region, expand transit transportation, strengthen investment cooperation, and further activate economic relations between border regions.

The ECO Secretary General emphasized that this initiative can serve as a role model for the border regions of other member states of the Organization. It was noted that it aligns with the goals of strengthening interregional connectivity, expanding trade relations within the ECO, and creating new opportunities for economic integration.

The phased implementation of this initiative put forward by Turkmenistan can create conditions for the development of new areas of trade and economic cooperation in the region. At the same time, the intensification of cross-border trade and the expansion of transport and transit capabilities will contribute to further strengthening economic ties between ECO member states.