Synopsis: Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan strengthen their strategic partnership by signing agreements on international information security and diplomatic cooperation while expanding collaboration in trade, energy and regional stability.
Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan are reinforcing their strategic partnership by signing two bilateral agreements aimed at enhancing cooperation in international information security and diplomatic engagement. The agreements are finalised following high-level talks in Ashgabat, underscoring the two neighbouring countries’ commitment to strengthening political dialogue, addressing regional security challenges and expanding collaboration across multiple sectors.
The agreements are signed during the official visit of Uzbekistan’s Foreign Minister, Bakhtiyor Saidov, to Turkmenistan, where he holds restricted-format discussions with Turkmenistan’s Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Foreign Minister, Rashid Meredov. The meeting serves as a platform to review the progress of bilateral relations and identify new opportunities for deeper institutional and economic cooperation.
Also read: Iran, China Strengthen Economic Ties With Joint Roadmap
Among the key outcomes of the visit is an agreement between the governments of Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan on cooperation in the field of international information security. The initiative aims to strengthen collaboration in addressing emerging cyber and digital security challenges while encouraging greater coordination on issues related to information protection and international security.
The two countries also sign a cooperation programme between their foreign ministries for the 2027–2028 periods. The programme is designed to enhance diplomatic engagement through regular consultations, closer policy coordination and expanded institutional cooperation. According to Minister Saidov, the framework will facilitate more effective political dialogue and improve joint responses to evolving regional and global security issues.
Beyond the signed agreements, the ministers review the implementation of decisions reached during previous high-level meetings and discuss expanding cooperation in several priority sectors. These include trade, transport and logistics, energy, cross-border connectivity, and cultural and humanitarian exchanges. Both sides emphasise the importance of promoting practical initiatives that contribute to stronger economic integration and sustainable regional development.
Also read: How Sustainability Drives Growth in Southeast Asia
The discussions also focus on regional and international affairs, with both countries reaffirming their commitment to maintaining peace, stability and good-neighbourly relations across Central Asia. The ministers agree to continue coordinating their positions on shared regional priorities while supporting initiatives that promote long-term security and prosperity.
During the visit, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov receives the Uzbek delegation. Minister Saidov conveys greetings from Uzbekistan’s President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and highlights the steady growth in bilateral trade and the continued expansion of the strategic partnership. The visit reflects the shared determination of Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan to deepen cooperation, strengthen diplomatic ties and build a resilient partnership that supports regional stability and sustainable economic development.