The National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, welcomed Rustam Minnikhanov, head of the Republic of Tatarstan of the Russian Federation, during his visit to Ashgabat on February 18 and invited him to participate in a forum in Ashgabat on December 12, 2025, to mark the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s neutrality.
During the visit, the sides discussed enhancing bilateral cooperation, with Minnikhanov conveying greetings from President of Russia Vladimir Putin, and Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov returning wishes of peace and prosperity, as reported by Turkmenistan's official media.
Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov highlighted Turkmenistan’s strong ties with Tatarstan, emphasizing opportunities for further growth in trade and other areas, bolstered by Turkmenistan’s favorable investment climate and rising international reputation. He expressed satisfaction with the expanding cooperation, based on the principles of good neighborliness and equality, and acknowledged Tatarstan’s support for Turkmen students.
The meeting coincided with Diplomatic Workers’ Day, during which they exchanged congratulations. Minnikhanov congratulated Berdimuhamedov and Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers, Minister of Foreign Affairs Rashid Meredov. In turn, Meredov expressed his gratitude to the National Leader of the Turkmen people, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov, and the head of the Republic of Tatarstan.
The meeting concluded with mutual wishes for success, and the National Leader of the Turkmen people accompanied Minnikhanov to Ashgabat International Airport for his departure to Tatarstan.
