President of Turkmenistan's Official Visit to Japan: A New Chapter in Strategic Partnership

Tokyo, April 2025 — President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov paid an official visit to Japan, marked by high-level meetings, the signing of important bilateral agreements, and participation in the National Day of Turkmenistan at EXPO 2025 in Osaka. The visit highlighted the growing strategic partnership between the two friendly nations.

National Day of Turkmenistan at EXPO 2025

On April 14, President Berdimuhamedov attended a grand ceremony celebrating Turkmenistan's National Day at EXPO 2025. He toured the Turkmen national pavilion, showcasing the country’s rich history, cultural heritage, economic development, and technological innovation.

The President also visited Japan’s national pavilion, which presented a three-part display focusing on the past, present, and future, including cutting-edge technologies in AI, robotics, and environmental sustainability.

High-Level Meetings and Diplomatic Dialogue

On April 15, President Berdimuhamedov held bilateral talks with Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba of Japan. The two leaders discussed key areas of cooperation including political dialogue, economic partnership, and cultural exchange.

The President invited the Japanese side to participate in the International Forum in Ashgabat scheduled for December 12, 2025, dedicated to the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s permanent neutrality.

Honorary Doctorate from University of Tsukuba

During his visit, President Berdimuhamedov met with Kyosuke Nagata, President of the University of Tsukuba, who awarded him the title of Honorary Doctor in recognition of his contributions to science and education. Notably, National Leader Hero-Arkadag Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov also holds this honorary title.

Meeting with the Emperor of Japan

One of the most distinguished events was the meeting between President Berdimuhamedov and Emperor Naruhito at the Imperial Palace. Both sides expressed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties in advanced technology, sustainable development, education, and cultural exchange.

Dialogue with Japanese Business Leaders and Signing of Agreements

President Berdimuhamedov also held a major business forum with top executives from leading Japanese companies including Mitsubishi, Sumitomo, Komatsu, Kawasaki, Toyo Engineering, and others.

During the meeting, he presented investment opportunities in Turkmenistan’s green economy, energy diversification, transport connectivity, and industrial modernization.

Several framework agreements and memorandums of understanding were signed, including:

• Construction of a second GTG (gas-to-gasoline) plant in Ahal Province

• Construction of a new urea plant in Balkan Province

• Modernization of the Kiyanly Polymer Plant

• Transition of power plants to combined-cycle systems

• Cooperation in water resource management, environmental protection, and education

Meeting with the Chairman of the Japan Bank for International Cooperation

President Berdimuhamedov met with Nobumitsu Hayashi, Chairman of JBIC, and praised the longstanding financial cooperation between Turkmenistan and Japan. Discussions focused on the joint implementation of high-tech, eco-friendly projects across various sectors of the Turkmen economy.

Strengthening Parliamentary Diplomacy

Another important meeting took place with Endo Toshiaki, Chairman of the Japan-Turkmenistan Parliamentary Friendship Group. Both parties emphasized the importance of parliamentary diplomacy in fostering mutual understanding and deepening bilateral relations.

The official visit of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov to Japan reaffirmed the strength and potential of Turkmen-Japanese relations. It laid the groundwork for new strategic initiatives, long-term investments, and expanded cultural and educational cooperation.

The visit also underscored Turkmenistan’s commitment to neutrality, international collaboration, and sustainable development — values that are deeply shared with Japan.