Putin announces new Russian investment projects in Turkmenistan

Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced plans for new Russian investment projects in Turkmenistan, highlighting rapidly growing economic ties between the two nations. Putin made the declaration on Friday while addressing the International Forum for Peace and Trust in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan's capital.

Economic growth and strategic partnership

President Putin cited a significant 35% increase in bilateral trade turnover for the first ten months of 2025, a rate that outpaces the growth of the entire previous year. "Russian companies are committed to launching new investment projects in the Turkmenistan market," he stated, noting strengthened collaboration in key areas like energy and transportation. He described the Russo-Turkmen strategic partnership as developing in a spirit of friendship and serving as "a bright example of how partner relations should be built in the modern multipolar world."

Key infrastructure and regional roles

The Russian leader pointed to specific large-scale initiatives involving both countries, including projects in the Caspian Sea region and the ongoing development of the North-South transport corridor. He also emphasized cooperation within the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), noting that Ashgabat is set to chair the organization in 2026. "Wishing all success to our Turkmen colleagues in this regard, I assure that the Russian side will render all necessary assistance," Putin said.

Broader geopolitical context

The reinforced economic diplomacy underscores Russia's efforts to deepen its influence in Central Asia through energy, logistics, and trade partnerships. This engagement occurs in a region where other global powers, including China and Türkiye, also maintain active economic and cultural ties. Türkiye, sharing linguistic and historical bonds with Turkmenistan, follows these developments closely as it advances its own "Asia Anew" initiative and fosters connectivity projects across the Turkic world, advocating for stability and mutually beneficial cooperation in the region.