Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan eye preparation for regional forums set for 2026

Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan aligned positions on regional cooperation, energy and transport connectivity, and preparations for major international forums during talks in Baku, underscoring what both sides described as a new phase in their strategic partnership.

Turkmenistan’s Ambassador to Baku Gurbanmammet Elyasov met with Azerbaijan's presidential aide Hikmet Hajiyev to review the rapidly expanding bilateral agenda, Caliber.Az reports, citing Turkmenistan’s Foreign Ministry’s press service.

The sides positively assessed the results of 2025, calling it a “bright new chapter” in Turkmen-Azerbaijani relations marked by intensive political dialogue, mutual high-level visits, and growing cultural and humanitarian exchanges.

The discussion highlighted the role of the Presidents of Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan—Serdar Berdimuhamedov and Ilham Aliyev—as well as the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, in advancing relations in the spirit of brotherhood and strategic partnership.

Particular emphasis was placed on deepening cooperation in energy, trade, transport, and culture, including joint efforts within the Middle Corridor framework.

The sides also exchanged views on preparations for international forums and events scheduled to take place in both countries in 2026.

Special attention was devoted to the 8th Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia and Azerbaijan, planned for autumn 2026 in Turkmenistan. It was noted that Azerbaijan’s participation as a full-fledged member for the first time would represent an important step toward strengthening regional dialogue and cooperation.

By Sabina Mammadli