On September 19, 2024, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov held a meeting with Muhammad Al Jasser, the Head of the Islamic Development Bank (IDB).
Al Jasser expressed his sincere gratitude to the Head of State for the opportunity to discuss important matters of cooperation between the IDB and Turkmenistan. He warmly congratulated the President and the National Leader of Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, on the upcoming celebration of the 33rd anniversary of Turkmenistan’s Independence.
The President of Turkmenistan expressed confidence that the discussions during Al Jasser’s visit to Ashgabat would be productive and contribute to a constructive exchange of ideas on future partnership prospects.
It was noted that the partnership between Turkmenistan and the IDB has been successful and long-term. This September marks the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s membership in the IDB, which has financed over 20 significant projects in areas such as healthcare, education, transportation, communication, and energy.
President Serdar Berdimuhamedov emphasized the importance of promoting public health as a priority of Turkmenistan’s state policy. The country has made great strides in the national healthcare system.
In this regard, the role of the IDB in implementing projects for the construction of medical and health resort infrastructure, as well as opportunities for further investment cooperation, was highlighted.
The meeting also focused on the potential for cooperation in the energy and oil and gas sectors.
The transportation sector was also identified as a promising area for collaboration. The importance of connectivity between different modes of transportation, particularly the formation of multimodal regional and international transport corridors, was emphasized.
It was also noted that there are many opportunities to enhance international transportation through the Caspian Sea and expand the capacity of the Turkmenbashi International Seaport, which connects Asia and Europe. Turkmenistan is open to considering specific proposals from the IDB for participating in projects to develop transport and transit corridors.
The meeting also touched upon projects for developing the internet and telecommunications system, as well as the potential for strengthening the IDB’s ties with banks and the private sector in Turkmenistan.
At the end of the meeting, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and Head of the Islamic Development Bank Muhammad Al Jasser expressed confidence in the continued strengthening of mutually beneficial cooperation between Turkmenistan and the IDB.