December 1, 2024
The delegation of Turkmenistan took part in the ministerial meeting "Central Asia - China"
On December 1, 2024, Turkmenistan's Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov led a delegation to the fifth meeting of Foreign Ministers within the Central Asia–China format in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China. The meeting underscored the vital role of cooperation between Central Asian countries and China in enhancing constructive partnerships. During discussions, the ministers from Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and China identified key areas for future collaboration, including trade, energy, transport, and political relations. The diplomats also reviewed preparations for the upcoming second Central Asia–China summit, emphasizing the importance of long-term peace, stability, and strengthening political, economic, and humanitarian ties. The meeting concluded with the signing of a Joint Statement, which outlined promising areas of multilateral cooperation within the Central Asia–China framework.
(MFA of Turkmenistan (December 1, 2024))
December 2, 2024
A regional consultative meeting was held to discuss the creation of a Special UN Program for the countries of the Aral Sea basin
From November 30 to December 1, 2024, a Regional Consultative Meeting of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) took place in Ashgabat, focusing on the creation of a Special UN Program for the countries of the Aral Sea basin. The initiative was first proposed in 2012 by Turkmenistan's National Leader, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, and led to the adoption of a resolution at the 79th ESCAP session in 2023, calling for consideration of such a program. The meeting brought together representatives from Central Asian ministries, the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea, UN agencies, and experts in water resources and climate. Discussions centered on evaluating the progress of regional cooperation on water resources and natural disasters in the basin and determining the next steps for the proposed UN program. The outcomes of the meeting will be presented at the 81st ESCAP session in April 2025.
(MFA of Turkmenistan (December 2, 2024))
December 3, 2024
The President of Kazakhstan meets with Ajay Banga, President of the World Bank Group
During the One Water Summit, Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev met with World Bank Group President Ajay Banga to discuss their strategic partnership. Tokayev highlighted ongoing collaboration on five major projects totaling $3.5 billion in water, transport, and education, and welcomed the World Bank’s recent $650 million financing for the TRACE project, emphasizing the importance of investments in the Middle Corridor, including the Jezkazgan-Karaganda highway. Ajay Banga commended the strong cooperation between the World Bank and Kazakhstan, expressed interest in expanding joint initiatives across various sectors, and was invited by Tokayev to visit Kazakhstan to strengthen dialogue and explore long-term prospects for partnership.
(Official Website of the President of Kazakhstan (December 3, 2024))
December 3, 2024
A number of documents were signed during the official visit of President Sadyr Japarov to Korea
On December 3, during the official visit of President Sadyr Japarov of the Kyrgyz Republic to the Republic of Korea, a series of bilateral agreements were signed to enhance Kyrgyz-Korean cooperation across various fields. These agreements included the establishment of a Comprehensive Partnership between the two nations, frameworks for collaboration on climate change, and amendments to the tax treaty to prevent double taxation. Additional memoranda and agreements covered diverse areas such as education, digital technologies, energy, trade, forestry, personnel management, and postal services. Notably, projects focusing on renewable energy, agroforestry, and digital transformation were formalized, along with agreements to strengthen agricultural value chains and promote trade and investment. These initiatives underscore a shared commitment to fostering economic, technological, and cultural ties between the two countries.
(The official website of the President of the Kyrgyz Republic (December 3, 2024))
December 3, 2024
The President of Kazakhstan took part in the One Water Summit
At the opening ceremony of the One Water Summit in Riyadh, Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev emphasized the critical importance of water security for sustainable development, economic progress, and environmental protection. He thanked France, Saudi Arabia, and the World Bank for organizing the event and highlighted the global challenge of water shortages, which affect billions of people. Tokayev stressed the need for joint efforts to protect water resources, invest in water infrastructure, and adopt innovative technologies for sustainable management. He proposed creating a global partnership to study and protect glaciers, given their vital role in the water cycle, and called for strengthening early warning systems to mitigate water-related disasters. Noting the interconnectedness of water with food and energy security, he advocated for investments in water-efficient agriculture and renewable energy. Kazakhstan’s commitment to regional and global water cooperation was underlined by its participation in the Freshwater Challenge and the One Water Vision coalition, with plans to host a Regional Climate Conference in 2026. Tokayev concluded by urging multilateral dialogue based on the One Water principle to address water security as a moral and practical imperative.
(Official Website of the President of Kazakhstan (December 3, 2024))
December 3, 2024
President Sadyr Japarov met with President of the Assembly and Chairman of the Council of the Global Institute for Green Growth Ban Ki-moon
On December 3, during his official visit to the Republic of Korea, President Sadyr Japarov of Kyrgyzstan met with Ban Ki-moon, President of the Assembly and Chairman of the Council of the Global Institute for Green Growth (GGGI). Their discussions focused on climate change, sustainable resource management, and innovative environmental technologies. President Japarov reaffirmed Kyrgyzstan's commitment to combating climate change, preserving ecosystems, and transitioning to a green economy, emphasizing the country's interest in collaborating with GGGI and other global initiatives. He highlighted Kyrgyzstan's recent economic growth, improved investment climate, and ongoing efforts to fight corruption. Referring to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’ remarks likening Kyrgyzstan to a "racing horse," Japarov emphasized the nation's dynamic progress and ongoing cooperation with the UN to establish a Trust Fund for nature conservation. Ban Ki-moon commended Kyrgyzstan's rapid development and encouraged the country to amplify its voice on international platforms to garner global support for its initiatives. He pledged GGGI’s assistance in advancing sustainable development in Kyrgyzstan's mountain regions and accepted Japarov's invitation to visit Kyrgyzstan in the near future.
(The official website of the President of the Kyrgyz Republic (December 3, 2024))
December 4, 2024
The President of Uzbekistan noted the importance of expanding the multifaceted partnership with the IAEA
On December 4, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan met with Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), to discuss expanding bilateral cooperation and exploring new areas of practical collaboration. As an IAEA member since 1994, Uzbekistan has implemented over 40 joint projects with the agency's technical assistance, with five currently underway, focusing on legal frameworks, nuclear science, medicine, and other sectors. President Mirziyoyev praised the productive outcomes of the IAEA delegation's engagements with Uzbek ministries, departments, and scientific institutions, including preparations for the International Conference on the Use of Atomic Energy, scheduled for December 5 in Samarkand. Priority areas of future collaboration include enhancing the capacity of national agencies, personnel training, and advancing nuclear energy, agriculture, water management, healthcare, and ecology. The meeting concluded with an agreement to adopt a joint roadmap for advancing peaceful nuclear development initiatives.
December 5, 2024
A meeting of the Turkmenistan–EU Joint Committee was held in Brussels
On December 4, 2024, the 23rd meeting of the Turkmenistan-European Union Joint Committee was held in Brussels, with Turkmenistan's delegation headed by Minister of Finance and Economy Serdar Joraev. The EU delegation was led by Luc Devigne, Deputy Managing Director for Europe and Central Asia at the European External Action Service. The meeting covered a broad range of topics, including trade cooperation, Turkmenistan's accession to the WTO, macroeconomic situations, and transport connectivity. Key discussions focused on energy, environmental protection, sustainable development, water resource management, methane emission reduction, and the use of renewable energy sources. The two sides also addressed humanitarian issues, educational cooperation, and cultural exchanges, with Turkmenistan presenting initiatives in academic cooperation and the EU showcasing its educational and cross-industry programs. The EU provided insights into its economic development, industrial digitalization, and the impact of global factors. The meeting concluded with an emphasis on strengthening Turkmenistan-EU relations and the importance of such discussions for deepening bilateral cooperation.
(MFA of Turkmenistan (December 5, 2024))
December 6, 2024
The President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev received the owners of Power International Holding Muataz Al-Hayat and Remez Al-Hayat
During the discussion, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev reviewed the progress of major investment projects in energy and telecommunications being implemented with Power International Holding (PIH). These projects include constructing gas processing plants in Kashagan, the second line of the Beineu – Bozoy – Shymkent gas pipeline, a new compressor station, and the Aktobe – Kostanay main gas pipeline, which are vital for strengthening Kazakhstan's energy security. PIH Chairman Muataz Al-Hayat outlined plans for advancing these initiatives and highlighted ongoing negotiations for a steam and gas turbine plant in Kyzylorda and interregional electric networks. Additionally, the Qatari conglomerate expressed interest in joint ventures in artificial intelligence. President Tokayev assured Qatari investors of favorable conditions from the Kazakh Government and emphasized the importance of high-quality execution of these projects.
(Official Website of the President of Kazakhstan (December 6, 2024))
December 6, 2024
A new electric train has been launched from Tashkent to Khojikent
On December 6, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev inspected a newly launched electric train on the Tashkent–Khojikent route, highlighting Uzbekistan’s ongoing railway transformation under his October 10, 2023 decree. The reforms of Uzbekiston Temir Yullari JSC focus on infrastructure, passenger convenience, and modernizing train fleets. New trains, including more frequent Afrosiab services, enhance connectivity between Tashkent and cities like Samarkand, Bukhara, and Karshi. Over 3,000 kilometers of railways have been electrified, with key projects like the Bukhara–Urgench–Khiva and Miskin–Nukus lines nearing completion. The new Tashkent–Khojikent electric train, with 586 seats and speeds up to 120 km/h, offers three daily trips each way. During his journey to Khojikent, the President reviewed railway development plans, emphasizing passenger amenities, route straightening, and enhancing train capacity. He also stressed the importance of landscaping along railway tracks under the Yashil Makon project, advocating for drought-resistant plants and climate-suitable seedlings to improve ecological sustainability.
(The official website of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan (December 6, 2024))
December 6, 2024
The President of Kazakhstan received Mohammed Nasser Al-Hajri, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Nebras Power
During the meeting, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Mohammed Nasser Al-Hajri discussed prospects for investment cooperation in renewable energy. The President welcomed the recent agreement between Nebras Power Holding and Samruk-Energo JSC for constructing the 300-megawatt Semipalatinsk Hydropower Plant, emphasizing its importance for strengthening the strategic partnership between Kazakhstan and Qatar. He reaffirmed the Government's readiness to provide full support for the project's success and highlighted Kazakhstan's goal to increase the share of renewable energy to 15% by 2030. Al-Hajri shared updates on the project's progress and acknowledged Kazakhstan's significant potential in green energy development.
(Official Website of the President of Kazakhstan (December 6, 2024))
December 7, 2024
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev took part in a panel session of the Doha Forum conference
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev participated as an honorary guest in the opening ceremony of the Doha Forum, held under the theme "Dialogue, Diplomacy, and Diversity." During this international event, which addresses pressing global issues like geopolitics, energy, and technology, Tokayev took part in a Newsmaker Interview session moderated by CNN journalist Julia Chatterley. He emphasized the importance of reforming the United Nations to enhance its effectiveness, suggesting that middle powers, including Kazakhstan, can play a crucial role in fostering peace and security. On global trade, Tokayev criticized trade conflicts and tariff measures, reaffirming Kazakhstan's adherence to WTO rules and advocating for dialogue over confrontation. The President also addressed Kazakhstan’s foreign policy, the Ukraine crisis, the Middle East, and the pivotal role of youth in national development.
(Official Website of the President of Kazakhstan (December 7, 2024))
December 9, 2024
Exchange notes between the Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan and the Government of Japan on the "Scholarship Program for Human Resources Development" project have been ratified
President Sadyr Japarov of the Kyrgyz Republic has signed the Law ratifying the Exchange Notes and Grant Agreement between the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic and the Government of Japan on the "Scholarship Program for the Development of Human Resources," initially signed on August 1, 2024, in Bishkek. Adopted by the Jogorku Kenesh on November 20, 2024, the law formalizes Japan's provision of a 342 million Japanese yen grant through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). The program aims to enhance the professional development of Kyrgyz state and municipal employees by offering scholarships for two-year English-language master’s programs and doctoral studies at prestigious Japanese universities. Specifically, 19 employees will pursue master’s degrees (2025–2027), and one employee will complete a doctorate (2025–2028), fostering long-term capacity building and international collaboration.
December 11, 2024
The International Conference "Joint Actions for Strengthening International Peace and Sustainable Development" was held in Ashgabat
On December 11, 2024, an international conference titled "Joint Actions to Strengthen International Peace and Sustainable Development" was held in Ashgabat, coinciding with the International Day of Neutrality. The event brought together heads of diplomatic missions, representatives of international organizations, and experts from the United Nations, along with Turkmenistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, civil society, and research centers. The conference focused on enhancing international cooperation for peace and sustainable development, with Turkmenistan's foreign policy, which emphasizes collective work and unity, highlighted as a model. Key speakers, including officials from Uzbekistan, the UN, and the EU, stressed the importance of coordinated global efforts to address challenges to peace. Sessions covered sustainable development, trust-building, and the role of international organizations, with participants agreeing on the importance of preventive diplomacy and dialogue in resolving global conflicts. The conference concluded with the adoption of a final document reflecting the key themes and commitments discussed, and the significance of the upcoming International Year of Peace and Trust, proclaimed by the UN at Turkmenistan's initiative.
(MFA of Turkmenistan (December 11, 2024))
December 11, 2024
The President of Kazakhstan received Helen Clark, Chairman of the Board of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative
During the discussion, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev highlighted Kazakhstan's dedication to the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) since joining in 2007. He emphasized legislative measures requiring subsoil users to comply with EITI standards and report on taxes and payments to the national budget. Tokayev outlined regulatory advancements in exploration and production, including the adoption of a comprehensive industry development plan, the launch of a unified subsoil use platform with an interactive map and over 50,000 geological reports, and the simplification of licensing processes for exploration and mining. Helen Clark, Head of EITI, commended Kazakhstan’s efforts to align its legislation with transparency standards and shared the organization’s strategic goals for the future.
(Official Website of the President of Kazakhstan (December 11, 2024))
December 13, 2024
The President of Uzbekistan reviewed long-term plans for cooperation with Aksa Enerji
President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan met with Cemil Kazancı, Chairman of the Turkish company Aksa Enerji, to discuss strengthening their partnership and advancing Uzbekistan’s energy sector. The President praised Aksa Enerji’s successful projects in Uzbekistan, including modern power plants in Tashkent and Bukhara with a combined capacity of 740 megawatts. Notably, the launch of a new 400-megawatt power plant in the Nishan district of Kashkadarya region was celebrated earlier in the day. The meeting also focused on promising "green" energy initiatives, such as modernizing gas distribution systems, constructing biogas plants, and ensuring sustainable energy supplies to industrial zones, in line with the bilateral roadmap for cooperation.
(The official website of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan (December 13, 2024))
December 17, 2024
Turkmen-American Business Forum held in Ashgabat
On December 16, 2024, the Turkmen-American Business Forum was held at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan, with Turkmenistan's Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers, Nokerguly Atagulyev, leading the delegation. The U.S. delegation was headed by Eric Stewart, Executive Director of the Turkmenistan-USA Business Council. The forum included participation from major U.S. companies such as Case New Holland, Climate Compass, Boeing, John Deere, and Westport Trading Europe, among others. The meeting focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation, particularly in trade and investment, machinery supply for industry, agriculture, and water management. The discussion also covered expanding partnerships in sectors like the fuel and energy complex, transport, construction, healthcare, and innovative technologies. American companies reaffirmed their interest in further collaboration with Turkmenistan. The forum provided a platform for exchanging ideas and exploring joint ventures between Turkmen ministries, departments, and private companies with U.S. businesses.
(MFA of Turkmenistan (December 17, 2024))
December 18, 2024
December 19, 2024
The 6th Meeting of Ministers and High Officials in Charge of Media and Information of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) convened in Tashkent on 19 December 2024, hosted by the Agency for Information and Mass Communications under the Administration of the President of Uzbekistan. Attended by high-ranking representatives of OTS member states, the meeting highlighted the media's pivotal role in shaping the future, with Deputy Secretary General Merey Mukazhan emphasizing the need for truthful and constructive information to inspire the Turkic World. Preparatory discussions held the day before ensured the successful adoption of the Tashkent Communique and the 2025 OTS Action Plan, setting strategies for enhanced cooperation and addressing shared challenges. A Media Forum held alongside the meeting featured discussions on fostering collaboration in the information sector and combating disinformation, providing a platform for addressing pressing media issues. It was also decided to host the 7th Meeting in Azerbaijan in 2025.
(Organization of Turkic States (December 19, 2024))
December 20, 2024
President Sadyr Japarov delivered an address at the Third National Kurultai
On December 20, President Sadyr Japarov of the Kyrgyz Republic addressed the nation, members of the Jogorku Kenesh, and delegates of the Third People's Kurultai, outlining the country's situation and the key priorities of its domestic and foreign policy. The Kurultai, attended by 698 delegates, including representatives of migrant workers and ethnic communities, highlighted inclusivity and national unity. In a gesture of respect, the oldest delegate, 98-year-old Ulukbek Ergeshev, received a special gift from the President. During the event, delegates approved 9 members of the Counting Commission and 17 members of the National Council, who subsequently elected the Chairman and two deputies, marking significant organizational steps for this national assembly.
(The official website of the President of the Kyrgyz Republic (December 20, 2024))
December 20, 2024
The President of Turkmenistan met with the heads of the Malaysian company Petronas
(MFA of Turkmenistan (December 20, 2024))
December 20, 2024
Head of the Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities (YTB) visited the Secretariat of the Organization of Turkic States
The Head of the Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities (YTB) Abdullah Eren visited the Secretariat of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) on 20 December 2024. Sides held discussions on the outcomes of the 6th meeting of the Heads of Diaspora Institutions of the OTS held on 18 November 2024 in Tashkent with a special focus on the OTS diaspora activities to be organized under the guidance of the YTB in 2025. Sides also deliberated on the current agenda, priorities, and prospective activities of the Organization in fields of education and youth affairs and discussed avenues of future cooperation.
December 23, 2024
OTS is exploring cooperation with TEKNOFEST
December 25, 2024
Dozens killed as passenger plane crashes in Kazakhstan
Dozens of people have died after Azerbaijan Airlines flight J2-8243, carrying around 70 people, crashed near the Kazakh city of Aktau during an emergency landing. The Embraer 190 aircraft, en route from Baku to Grozny, was diverted due to fog and caught fire upon landing about 3 km from the airport. Authorities report conflicting numbers, with 62 passengers and 5 crew members listed by the airline, but other sources suggest up to 72 on board, and between 28 to 32 survivors. Unconfirmed reports suggest the plane may have collided with a flock of birds before the crash. The passengers included mostly Azerbaijani nationals, along with individuals from Russia, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan.
(BBC (December 25, 2024))
December 25, 2024
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, who arrived in St. Petersburg on a working visit, took part in an informal meeting of the CIS heads of state. The event was attended by President of Russia Vladimir Putin, President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko, President of Kyrgyzstan Sadyr Japarov, President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov and President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev. The summit discussed priority areas of activity and prospects for further development of mutually beneficial cooperation within the framework of the Commonwealth of Independent States.
(Official Website of the President of Kazakhstan (December 25, 2024))
December 26, 2024
The Head of State took part in an expanded meeting of the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev took part in an expanded meeting of the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council (SEEC). The event was also attended by President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin, Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan (via videoconference), President of the Republic of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko, President of the Kyrgyz Republic Sadyr Japarov, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Minister of Industry, Mines and Trade of Iran Mohammad Atabak, as well as Chairman of the Board of the Eurasian Economic Commission Bakytzhan Sagintayev. Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel Bermudez sent a video message to the summit participants. Topical issues of the Eurasian Economic Union's activities and prospects for further development of integration processes were considered. Following the results of the VEEC meeting, the heads of delegations signed a number of documents.
(Official Website of the President of Kazakhstan (December 26, 2024))
December 27, 2024
President Sadyr Japarov launched the construction of the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway
On December 27, during his working visit to the Jalal-Abad region, President Sadyr Japarov of the Kyrgyz Republic attended the launch ceremony of the China-Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway, a landmark regional project. The foundation stone was laid in Tosh-Kutchu village, marking the beginning of this strategic initiative aimed at connecting East and West. In his address, President Japarov highlighted the railway's role as a vital transport corridor that will facilitate goods delivery from China to Central Asia, the Middle East, Turkey, and the European Union, enhancing regional ties and diversifying transport routes. Messages from Chinese President Xi Jinping and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, read by their representatives, emphasized the historic significance of this project, which has been in planning for nearly three decades. They underscored its potential to develop trade, industry, and investment while strengthening cooperation and strategic partnerships. The event concluded with President Japarov participating in the symbolic laying of the foundation stone.
(Organization of Turkic States (December 27, 2024))
December 27, 2024
OTS Secretary General H.E. Ambassador Kubanychbek Omuraliev Honored with the Prestigious 2024 World Tourism Leader Award
H.E. Ambassador Kubanychbek Omuraliev, Secretary General of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), has been awarded the prestigious 2024 World Tourism Leader Award during the Global Tourism Forum Annual Meeting held in Brussels in December 2024. The World Tourism Leader Award recognizes individuals who have made remarkable and enduring contributions to the global tourism sector. Ambassador Omuraliev's exceptional efforts in advancing tourism cooperation among the Turkic States and promoting sustainable practices within the region have garnered international acclaim, making him a deserving recipient of this distinguished honor. The award ceremony celebrated Ambassador Omuraliev alongside an impressive legacy of past recipients, including Joko Widodo, President of Indonesia, and Jose Manuel Barroso, former President of the European Commission. This accolade underscores the Secretary General’s impactful leadership in fostering collaboration and innovation within the tourism industry in the Turkic region.
December 28, 2024
New Tashkent will be a "Green City"
President Shavkat Mirziyoyev reviewed ongoing projects for the construction and development of New Tashkent, a "green city" designed to prioritize clean air, alternative energy, and extensive greenery. Initiated on March 18, 2023, the project includes the creation of a Central Park spanning 420 hectares and the planting of 200,000 trees as part of a green belt initiative. During his visit, the President inspected a 50-hectare nursery cultivating 27,000 ornamental seedlings for transplantation, along with irrigation systems, a greenhouse, and supporting infrastructure. Additionally, temporary administrative buildings have been constructed using local materials in an open-space format to accommodate up to 250 employees each, facilitating the relocation of ministries and reducing traffic congestion in the capital.
(The official website of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan (December 13, 2024))
December 30, 2024
The Closing Ceremony of the “Turkistan – Tourism Capital of the Turkic World 2024” was held in Turkistan
The Closing Ceremony of the “Turkistan – Tourism Capital of the Turkic World 2024” was held on 25 December 2024 in Turkistan. The event was attended by delegations from the Member States, as well as the Secretariat of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS). The ceremony celebrated the city’s successful role in promoting Turkic culture and fostering tourism collaboration among the Turkic States. In a symbolic handover, the title of “Tourism Capital of the Turkic World” for 2025 was officially designated to Jalal-Abad, Kyrgyzstan.