Dear President of the Republic of Korea!

Dear Heads of State of Central Asia!

Ladies and gentlemen, members of the delegations!

First of all, allow me to extend a warm welcome to you and express my gratitude to the President of the Republic of Korea, the esteemed Mr. Lee Jae-Myung, for the cordiality and hospitality shown, the high level of organization of the first "Central Asia – Republic of Korea" Summit, and the excellent working conditions provided.

Today, by holding this summit, we are laying the foundation for a new stage of cooperation between the Republic of Korea and the states of Central Asia.

Turkmenistan consistently proceeds from the premise that peace, stability, and trust are essential prerequisites for sustainable development.

Our country’s foreign policy course is based on the status of permanent neutrality, recognized three times by the United Nations General Assembly.

Among the priorities for joint activities within our framework, Turkmenistan also includes urban development and infrastructure, as well as the creation of a modern urban environment that meets the latest requirements and trends.

In this context, I would like to refer to the recently launched initiative by Turkmenistan known as "Smart City Diplomacy," which entails pooling efforts, exchanging experience and information, jointly implementing scientific and technological advances, and, overall, creating integrated and efficient models of urban planning and development.

Key areas today include industry, agriculture, the environment, water-related issues, healthcare, the service sector, and tourism.

A key event in this regard will be the “Central Asia–Republic of Korea” Business Summit, taking place today under the theme "Future Cooperation between Central Asia and the Republic of Korea for Growth and Innovation."

In the sphere of education, we have proposed developing new forms of cooperation between educational institutions in Central Asia and the Republic of Korea, including dual-degree programs.

We also consider it important to enhance the digital skills of young people and to organize joint Olympiads, competitions, and conferences.

In the field of science, we propose intensifying joint research and design-survey activities involving young scientists, as well as establishing an institute to support the development and implementation of innovative ideas from young people.

In the cultural sphere, we proposed a roadmap for youth intercultural exchanges between Central Asian countries and the Republic of Korea, as well as the "Young Talents" program.

It is essential to continue holding festivals, concerts, creative competitions, and other events that bring together the youth of our countries.

We also propose fostering sports cooperation, including the exchange of specialists, the promotion of healthy lifestyles, and exploring the organization of International Youth Sports Games involving Central Asian countries and the Republic of Korea.

We view the development of parliamentary diplomacy as an important complement to intergovernmental cooperation and an effective mechanism for strengthening trust between our countries.

Dear Heads of State!

Today’s summit offers us the opportunity to move from isolated areas of cooperation to the formation of a comprehensive, long-term partnership system.

Turkmenistan is ready to actively contribute to strengthening trust and an equal, mutually beneficial partnership between our countries, and to be an active participant in this format.

We are convinced that the “Central Asia – Republic of Korea” Cooperation Forum serves the long-term interests of our peoples and has the potential to become a significant factor in establishing sustainable and effective mechanisms for international cooperation.

(Seoul, September 16, 2026)