Turkmenistan has presented the concept of its 2026 chairmanship of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), outlining a broad cooperation agenda centered on transport connectivity, trade development, energy interaction, and environmental initiatives. The document charts the course for how Ashgabat intends to leverage its role in the regional organization over the coming year.
The concept was first introduced on January 22 at a meeting of the Commission on Economic Issues under the CIS Economic Council in Moscow, and subsequently discussed on January 29 at a meeting of the Council of Permanent Plenipotentiary Representatives. The document was presented by Turkmenistan’s Ambassador Esen Aydogdiyev.
The concept highlights five key priorities for the chairmanship: strengthening peace and security based on the principles of neutrality and trust diplomacy; developing economic cooperation and transport connectivity; humanitarian and cultural engagement; environmental sustainability; and digitalization and innovation.
The development of transport infrastructure and logistics has been identified as one of the central priorities. Turkmenistan intends to promote closer integration of the CIS countries’ transport systems and the development of international transport corridors, particularly the “North-South” and “East-West” routes. Special emphasis is placed on the potential of the Caspian Sea as a key transit hub connecting Central Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and the Black Sea region.
The environmental agenda also occupies an important place in the concept. Turkmenistan has proposed holding the second Caspian Environmental Forum in 2026, dedicated to biodiversity conservation, climate change, and the sustainable use of the region’s natural resources.
