Turkish Trade Minister to Strengthen Economic Ties in Turkmenistan Amid Rising Regional Tensions

Turkish Trade Minister Ömer Bolat is set to embark on a high-stakes diplomatic mission to Ashgabat, capital of Turkmenistan, as the 12th Turkish Export Products Exhibition officially opens its doors from February 10-12, 2026. The visit comes amid a broader effort by Ankara to bolster its presence in Central Asia and navigate complex regional dynamics.

Turkey's strategic location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia has long made it an attractive hub for regional trade and investment. However, with rising tensions in the Middle East and decreasing influence in traditional markets like Europe, Ankara has turned its attention to Central Asia as a key region for growth. The country's leader, President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow, has been actively courting foreign investment and strengthening ties with regional partners in recent years.