Turkmenistan Presented Its Position at the Antalya Diplomatic Forum
On the sidelines of the Fifth Antalya Diplomatic Forum (ADF-2026), held under the motto "Planning for the Future, Managing Uncertainty," Turkmenistan's position was presented as a programmatic vision for the region's development. Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov presented Ashgabat's strategic initiatives as the foundation for stability throughout Central Asia.
Turkmen diplomacy in Antalya focused on three pillars of regional prosperity: political dialogue, energy sustainability, and transport connectivity.
Participants were particularly interested in the idea of transforming the region's political landscape. The creation of the Consultative Meetings of the Heads of State of Central Asia, initiated by Turkmenistan, has proven its viability. Azerbaijan's accession to this dialogue has transformed the format into a powerful tool of influence, allowing the region to present a united front in the face of global uncertainty.
In energy matters, Turkmenistan remains committed to the principle of "balance of interests." The TAPI project and expanded electricity exports are viewed not simply as commercial objectives, but as a contribution to global security.
A key emphasis was placed on the three UN resolutions on energy sustainability adopted on Ashgabat's initiative. Turkmenistan confirmed its readiness not only to export its gas (including the existing route to China), but also to provide its infrastructure to its neighbors for their access to global markets.
The transport component of the speech cemented the region's status as a key hub at the intersection of the East-West and North-South routes. Ashgabat calls for consolidated efforts to ensure the corridor between Asia and Europe functions as a single, coherent mechanism. This requires not only investment in rails and ports, but also coordination in the management of logistics flows.
Rashid Meredov's speech at ADF-2026 demonstrated that, over 35 years of independence, the Central Asian states have moved from a state of self-determination to one of actively shaping the global agenda. In this context, Turkmenistan is assuming the role of an intellectual and logistical hub, offering concrete solutions where the world sees uncertainty.
