Turkmenistan Proposes Trade-Economic Zones Along Border With Iran

Turkmenistan has proposed the creation of trade and economic zones along specific sections of its border with Iran, according to the Turkmenistan's Foreign Ministry. The initiative was put forward during the 18th meeting of the Turkmen-Iranian Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation, held May 19–20 in Tehran. The talks were co-chaired by Turkmen Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov and Iranian Minister of Roads and Urban Development Mehrdad Bazrpash. The meeting served as a platform to discuss a wide range of bilateral issues, with a focus on expanding trade and economic ties. Key topics included cooperation in transport, logistics, the gas and industrial sectors, agriculture and water management, standardization, and investment. Officials emphasized the importance of maintaining regular dialogue and expressed confidence that the agreements reached would provide new momentum for bilateral relations. The session concluded with the signing of the protocol of the commission’s 18th meeting. As part of the visit, the Turkmen delegation also held separate talks with Iranian Energy Minister Abbas Aliabadi and Oil Minister Mohsen Paknejad, discussing opportunities to deepen cooperation in the fuel and energy sector.