Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan Review Bilateral Cooperation and 2026 Plans

Ashgabat, The Gulf Observer: On January 12, 2026, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Rashid Meredov, met with the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Azerbaijan to Turkmenistan, Gismet Gezalov, to review the current state of bilateral relations and prospects for further cooperation.

During the meeting, the two sides discussed key vectors of Turkmen-Azerbaijani relations across the political-diplomatic, trade-economic and cultural-humanitarian spheres. Particular attention was paid to arrangements for visits at high and the highest levels, as well as meetings between the leaders and senior representatives of the two brotherly countries.

The diplomats also exchanged views on preparations for events planned for the current year, including the upcoming meeting of the Turkmen-Azerbaijani Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation, which is scheduled to be held in Ashgabat.

In addition, the meeting focused on opportunities to further develop cultural and humanitarian ties. It was noted that the Days of Culture of Azerbaijan are planned to be held in Turkmenistan this year, reflecting the close cultural links between the two nations.

Highlighting that 2026 is the Year of the Horse according to the Eastern calendar, and that in Turkmenistan the year has been declared “Independent, Permanently Neutral Turkmenistan – Homeland of Purposeful Heavenly Horses,” the sides discussed in detail prospects for expanding cooperation in the field of horse breeding and equestrian sports.

The meeting underscored the mutual commitment of Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan to further strengthening their multifaceted partnership.