By UN Journal Lee Kap-soo

 

“Turkmenistan is home to a wealth of stunning natural landmarks. The picturesque landscapes of the Kopetdag Mountains, the diverse flora and fauna of the Karakum Desert, the banks of the Amu Darya River, Koytendag, the subtropical regions of southwestern Turkmenistan,” said H.E. Begench Durdyyev, Ambassador of Turkmenistan to the Republic of Korea.

 

In an exclusive interview with the Diplomacy Journal held at the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Yonsan-gu, Seoul on June 12, Amb. Durdyyev said, “The Turkmen coast of the Caspian Sea, particularly the "Avaza" resort, are all major attractions for eco-tourism. Furthermore, eco-tourism in Turkmenistan is largely centered around national reserves such as Badhyz, Repetek, Syunt-Hasardag, and others, offering visitors a chance to experience the country’s rich natural beauty.”

 

 

Noting that Turkmenistan is striving to expand tourism cooperation with Korea, he said, “Thanks to our strenuous efforts, direct passenger flights between Ashgabat and Seoul will start on July 14, 2025. This new route will significantly ease travel for Korean tourists wishing to visit Turkmenistan and explore our beautiful country.”

 

Stressing that this year marks the 33rd anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Turkmenistan and the Republic of Korea, Amb. Durdyyev said, “The mutual commitment of both countries to deepening their partnership has led to a remarkable elevation in cooperation, bringing it to a new and more dynamic level.”

 

On the cooperation in the industrial sectors, he commented, “The Republic of Korea is actively investing in Turkmenistan's economy, particularly in the energy sector. With its vast natural resource reserves, Turkmenistan has attracted Korean companies to develop fields, build gas processing plants, and establish infrastructure for natural gas transportation.”

 

The following is the full-text of the Diplomacy Journal’s interview with H.E. Begench Durdyyev, Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Korea. –Ed.

 

Question: Diplomatic relations between Turkmenistan and Korea were officially formed in 1992. How has the relationship developed over period?

 

Answer: One of the priority areas in Turkmenistan's foreign policy strategy is the development and strengthening of long-term and promising ties with the dynamically developing countries of the Asia-Pacific region. Among them is the Republic of Korea, with which Turkmenistan has established an equal and mutually beneficial partnership. The diplomatic relations between the two countries were established on February 7, 1992. From that time till these days our countries developed fruitful, equal, and mutually beneficial cooperation. The opening of the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Turkmenistan in 2007, as well as the opening of the Embassy of Turkmenistan in the Republic of Korea in 2013, were important milestones in the rapprochement of the two countries and nations. Today, effective political and diplomatic dialogue contributes to the strengthening of intergovernmental relations on a wide range of relevant issues.

 

Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between Turkmenistan and the Republic of Korea, more than 100 agreements have been signed across various areas of cooperation. This has significantly strengthened the bilateral trade and economic partnership, which continues to thrive through a constructive and dynamic approach, further solidifying the ties between our nations.

 

 

This year marks the 33rd anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Turkmenistan and the Republic of Korea. Over this time, the mutual commitment of both countries to deepening their partnership has led to a remarkable elevation in cooperation, bringing it to a new and more dynamic level. A key unifying factor is that both sides demonstrate closeness or similarity of positions, both on current bilateral issues and on the international agenda, sharing common principles of peace, security and sustainable development.

 

It has to be emphasized that over the years of cooperation, a number of important political and diplomatic events of intergovernmental significance have taken place. Meanwhile, the mutually trusting contacts established at the highest level serve as a solid foundation for the further expansion and strengthening of the partnership between the two states.

 

The first state visit of the President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov to the Republic of Korea took place in November 2008 and was undoubtedly an important milestone in the history of friendly relations. The talks between the government delegations of Turkmenistan, headed by the President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, and the Republic of Korea, headed by President Lee Myung Bak, which preceded the signing of a package of important bilateral documents, were the key moments of the visit.

 

 

In the course of the talks, the sides discussed priority areas of bilateral cooperation and expressed interest of the countries to intensify further intergovernmental cooperation. Today, we can confidently acknowledge the consistent and systematic nature of relations between Turkmenistan and the Republic of Korea.

 

The official visit of the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Hero Arkadag to Seoul in November 2022 was another important milestone in the development and strengthening of intergovernmental cooperation in a wide range of areas, primarily in strengthening inter-parliamentary dialog. The signing of a series of documents during the visit confirmed that the bilateral relations between Turkmenistan and the Republic of Korea have entered a qualitatively new stage of development.

 

The talks between the President of Turkmenistan and the President of the Republic of Korea held on September 18, 2023, during the 78th session of the UN General Assembly in New York City, gave an impetus to the dynamic development of bilateral cooperation. They also demonstrated once again the high level of relations and the commitment to further effective partnership between the two states in the international arena on current global political issues.

 

Today, the relations between our countries are characterized by special dynamism and consistency. As you are aware, last June, the President of the Republic of Korea paid a state visit to Turkmenistan. During the visit, the President of the Republic of Korea held important talks with the President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov, as well as with the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. As part of the intensive program of the visit, representatives of the business communities of the two countries exchanged views on priority areas of cooperation and identified new fields for collaboration. At the same time, it is worth noting the significance of the substantial package of bilateral documents signed as a result of the talks, aimed at further expanding and strengthening the legal framework between Turkmenistan and the Republic of Korea.

 

 

It should be noted that an important aspect of our effective bilateral partnership is inter-parliamentary cooperation, which is comprehensive and consistent in nature. Over the years of cooperation, Turkmenistan and the Republic of Korea have gained significant experience in interaction between the parliaments of the two countries. The official visit of the Speaker of the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea, Kim Jin-pyo to Turkmenistan in July 2023 high is a vivid example of the inter-parliamentary relations between two countries. During the visit, the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, as well as the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, held bilateral talks with the head of the Korean parliament. They engaged in a constructive exchange of views on further developing and strengthening bilateral relations across a wide range of areas, including inter-parliamentary cooperation. A meaningful event during the visit was the awarding of the high Order “Bitaraplyk” (Neutrality) of Turkmenistan to the Speaker of the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea in recognition of his contribution to strengthening relations between Turkmenistan and the Republic of Korea.

 

Close attention is paid to the successful development of the parliamentary relations between the two countries on a multi-format basis, in particular within the framework of the Central Asia – Republic of Korea Cooperation Forum. This is a clear illustration of strengthening of the position of parliamentary diplomacy in political and diplomatic cooperation. The delegation headed by the Speaker of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan Dunyagozel Gulmanova took part in the first meeting of the heads of parliaments of the Central Asian states and the Republic of Korea in September 2023 in Seoul. The delegation also participated in the first Turkmen-Korean inter-parliamentary consultations. Besides of that, last October Ashgabat hosted the second meeting of the Speakers of the Parliaments of the Central Asian countries and the Republic of Korea. The parliamentary delegation of the Republic of Korea was headed by the Speaker of the National Assembly Woo Won Shik.

 

Here I would like to mention one more important aspect of positive cooperation between Turkmenistan and the Republic of Korea. This is cultural and humanitarian interaction between the people of the two countries. The government agencies of Turkmenistan together with the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) have established active interaction within the framework of programs to exchange experience and knowledge in various areas of economy and social sphere.

 

 

Cultural and humanitarian cooperation is expanding, and the exchange of performing arts groups, organizing festivals, as well as participation in conferences and symposiums have become a good practice. Both countries regularly exchange cross cultural days, as well as visits of famous artistic groups of the two countries.

 

Significant work is being carried out in the field of education. As is known, since September 2008, a Department of Korean Language has been operating at the Dovletmammed Azadi Turkmen National Institute of World Languages and in September 2019, the King Sejong Korean Education Center was established on the premises of the institute to further enhance language and cultural exchange.

 

Turkmenistan and the Republic of Korea implement exchange programs in the educational sphere for students and teachers of universities of the two countries, which contributes to further strengthening the positive dialogue in the field of science and education.

 

 

It is encouraging to note that bilateral cooperation is also expanding in healthcare and medical industry, high technologies, and in environmental protection. Both sides attach great importance to cooperation in physical education and sports.

 

We firmly believe that there are vast prospects and significant opportunities for further expanding and development of bilateral interaction across a wide range of shared interests in Turkmen-Korean relations.

 

Q: You came to Korea in January 2023 to serve as the Ambassador of Turkmenistan. What are your most memorable things while working in Korea?

 

A: Actually, I arrived to the Republic of Korea as an Ambassador on August 15, 2022 - exactly on the day when the Korean nation was celebrating the National Liberation Day of Korea. And that day remained in my memory as one of the most vivid and memorable days, when I saw in the faces of the celebrating local people the sincere joy that is inherent in the people of an independent and prosperous country with the great achievements in political, diplomatic, trade, economic and social spheres. In fact, January 26, 2023 was another unforgettable day of presenting the credentials to the President of the Republic of Korea, accrediting me as an Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to the Republic of Korea.

 

Since my first mission to Seoul was in 2013, when I was working here as a Counsellor of the Embassy till November 2017, during all the period of my staying in Korea, I gained a huge experience of communicating with the local people in various cities and provinces of this country.

 

 

And these trips and communication, in turn, made an indelible impression on me and left in my memory many bright and unforgettable days of living in Korea, since visiting each historical site, temple, exhibition, and cultural event in this country is a separate, distinct event that contributes to an even greater understanding of the culture, customs, and traditions of the people of the Republic of Korea.

 

Q: During your more than two years of stay in South Korea, did you notice any cultural differences of special customs between the people of South Korea and Turkmenistan?

 

A: The customs, traditions and culture of the people of the Republic of Korea in general deserve special attention and arouse keen interest in people, including me. I must say that during my study of the language and culture of the Korean people I discovered many interesting things. I noticed many similarities in the traditions and culture of the Turkmen and Korean people, which, definitely, will serve in the future as the basis for even greater cultural rapprochement between the peoples of our two countries and further strengthening of bilateral relations and all rounded cooperation between Turkmenistan and the Republic of Korea.

 

 

Q: What tourist attractions do you want to recommend to Korean tourists? Do you have any government programs to attract foreign tourists, including Koreans, to Turkmenistan?

 

A: The development of tourism in Turkmenistan is another key aspect of our cultural and intergovernmental cooperation. Both Turkmenistan and the Republic of Korea are actively working to enhance tourist exchanges, which in turn fosters greater mutual understanding and drives economic growth. Turkmenistan, with its ancient monuments, unique culture, vibrant arts, and rich natural landscapes, continues to attract foreign visitors.

 

Turkmenistan offers a wide range of tourism activities. These include visits to historical and cultural monuments, leisure in sanatoriums, sports trips, excursions to mountain and desert landscapes, visits to natural landmarks, and more. It is important to note that Turkmenistan, as a key hub of the Ancient Silk Road, holds enormous potential in the tourism industry. Excursions to Nisa, Ancient Merv, and Köne Urgench, all of which are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, offer a unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of the Turkmen people and the ancient historical monuments located in Turkmenistan.

 

In addition to its cultural and historical monuments, Turkmenistan is also home to a wealth of stunning natural landmarks. The picturesque landscapes of the Kopetdag Mountains, the diverse flora and fauna of the Karakum Desert, the banks of the Amu Darya River, Koytendag, the subtropical regions of southwestern Turkmenistan, and the Turkmen coast of the Caspian Sea, particularly the "Avaza" resort, are all major attractions for eco-tourism. Furthermore, eco-tourism in Turkmenistan is largely centered around national reserves such as Badhyz, Repetek, Syunt-Hasardag, and others, offering visitors a chance to experience the country’s rich natural beauty.

 

 

The valleys of Archabil and Gokdere are located in the most beautiful part of the Kopetdag Mountains. Pure mountain air, abundance of sunlight and daily changes in weather have an inspiring, stress-relieving and refreshing effect on people in these beautiful valleys.

 

Our country has been included in the Guinness World Records on several occasions. The first time Turkmenistan's name was entered was for having the largest handmade carpet in the world, covering a total area of 301 square meters. The record book also features the “Oguz-han and His Sons” fountain complex at the entrance to Ashgabat International Airport, the giant star “Oguz-han” at the TV and Radio Center “Turkmenistan,” the indoor Ferris wheel at the cultural and entertainment center “Alem,” as well as the image of the Akhal-teke horse – the largest equestrian symbol in the world – decorating the tribunes of the Olympic Stadium. Additionally, the Guinness Book includes the Aquatics Center, home to the largest indoor swimming pool in the world, the largest mass cycling lesson held at the Ashgabat multipurpose stadium on June 1, 2018, the longest formation cycling race held at Ashgabat Olympic City on June 1, 2019, and the international airports in Ashgabat and Turkmenabat.

 

The capital of Turkmenistan was admitted as a member of the World Tourism Cities Federation in May 2020, which offers the city of Ashgabat great prospects for the development and expansion of various tourist destinations, as well as the creation of a tourist image of the city.

 

There are a lot of other landmarks of Turkmenistan that attract great interest from foreign tourists, including Korean travelers.

 

By the way, as part of our efforts to expand tourism cooperation, direct passenger flights between Ashgabat and Seoul will start on July 14, 2025. This new route will significantly ease travel for Korean tourists wishing to visit Turkmenistan and explore our beautiful country.

 

 

We have numerous tourism companies that are actively seeking to enter the Korean market and offer a variety of tour programs to interested Korean travelers. In anticipation of the launch of these direct flights, and in cooperation with Turkmenistan Airlines, we are planning to hold a briefing in Seoul for tourism companies, media representatives, and other relevant organizations from both Turkmenistan and Korea. Once the details are finalized, we will be pleased to extend an invitation to you as well.

 

Q: In Turkmenistan, what kind of industrial sectors are attractive to Korean investors?

A: It is a very important aspect that plays a significant role in the further advancement of our partnership. In the context of the rapid development of its national economy, Turkmenistan places great importance on cooperation with various countries around the world in the field of high technologies, as well as the implementation of modern advanced knowledge and management solutions.

 

The Republic of Korea is one of Turkmenistan's key trade and economic partners in the Asia-Pacific region. In this context, economic cooperation stands as a priority direction in Turkmen-Korean relations. Over the years of fruitful collaboration, our countries have gained extensive experience in this field. Currently, more than 10 companies with Korean capital are registered in Turkmenistan. At present, there are 14 investment projects in Turkmenistan involving Korean companies, with a total value exceeding 11 billion U.S. dollars. The Republic of Korea is actively investing in Turkmenistan's economy, particularly in the energy sector. With its vast natural resource reserves, Turkmenistan has attracted Korean companies to develop fields, build gas processing plants, and establish infrastructure for natural gas transportation.

 

 

Key projects include the construction of a gas purification plant to remove sulfur at the Galkynysh field, the development of a gas chemical complex in Kiyanly to produce polyethylene and polypropylene with the participation of LG International, the modernization of the Turkmenbashi oil refinery complex, and the acquisition of Hyundai buses and passenger cars for taxis. Additionally, two cargo ships are being built at the Balkan Shipbuilding and Ship Repair Plant with the involvement of Koryo Shipbuilding Industry Technology Co., Ltd. Meanwhile, on May 24, 2025 the state concern “Türkmenhimiýa” (Turkmenchemicals) has signed a multi-million contract with South Korea’s Daewoo Engineering & Construction Co., Ltd. to design and build a fertilizer production complex at the S. Niyazov Chemical Plant in Turkmenabat city. The new facility will specialize in the production of phosphate fertilizers and ammonium sulfate.

 

This agreement reflects Turkmenistan’s commitment to sustainable development and its openness to cooperation with major Korean investors and contractors in the field of high-tech construction.

 

Traditionally, Turkmenistan and the Republic of Korea regularly exchange representative delegations from their business circles. In recent years, business contacts between leading South Korean companies and relevant ministries, departments, agencies, and corporations of Turkmenistan have significantly intensified. Delegations from global industry leaders such as Hyundai, Samsung, LG, Daewoo, and other well-known companies frequently visit Turkmenistan. Joint activities within the framework of the Intergovernmental Turkmen-Korean Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, and Technological Cooperation have made this ongoing process more systematic. We see tremendous potential for further developing cooperation in areas such as trade and economy, energy, transport and logistics, digitalization, and high technologies. Turkmenistan is also keen to expand multifaceted collaboration in the gas and gas chemical industries, transportation, and shipbuilding.

 

 

In addition to the aforementioned industries, Korean business circles have shown significant interest in cooperation in areas such as urban development. As is well known, the first stage of construction of the Arkadag "smart" city has been completed in Turkmenistan, and the second stage of this large-scale project is currently underway. This phase will include a modern high-tech medical cluster, where the expertise of Korean specialists is highly valuable to us.

 

We also view the introduction of innovative digital technologies, as well as issues related to ecology and environmental protection, as other key and promising areas for the Turkmen-Korean partnership.

 

Q: Please, introduce the National Day (September 27, Independence Day) of your Excellency’s wonderful country.

 

A: Turkmenistan celebrates its Independence Day on September 27, and this year marks the 34th anniversary of our country's independence. This is one of the most significant and cherished holidays for the Turkmen people. The day symbolizes the fulfillment of the centuries-old dream of the Turkmen nation for an independent and sovereign state, a goal that was realized in 1991.

 

There is also another important national holiday that is celebrated annually in our country. On December 12, 1995, Turkmenistan was granted the international legal status of a Permanent Neutrality by a resolution of the UN General Assembly, with the unanimous support of all 185 member states of the Organization.

 

This year, we solemnly celebrate the 30th anniversary of the adoption of this significant decision made by the global community. In recognition of this milestone, large-scale international events dedicated to the anniversary are being organized throughout the year in Turkmenistan, with the participation of our friends from abroad. On December 12 of this year, a high-level forum will be held to mark the 30th anniversary of Neutrality, along with the proclamation of 2025 as the International Year of Peace and Trust. We express our hope that a high-level Korean delegation will actively participate in this important event.

 

Based on its internationally recognized status as a Permanently Neutral State, Turkmenistan actively pursues a policy aimed at comprehensively strengthening international peace, global security, and stability, with the goal of promoting a just and democratic international system founded on equal and mutually beneficial cooperation between states.

 

In this context, it should be emphasized that Turkmenistan and the Republic of Korea share similar or closely aligned views on various areas of global politics and the economy. The desire of the people of both countries for broad cooperation finds new meaning and substance today, reflecting a high level of collaboration and mutual respect.

 

I believe it is important to continue strengthening efforts to deepen comprehensive dialogue and develop priority areas of partnership, which will contribute to the prosperity of the people of Turkmenistan and the Republic of Korea.