A series of high-level diplomatic engagements held in London marked a historic step forward in deepening co-operation between Central Asia and the United Kingdom. Over several days of intensive dialogue, foreign ministers, senior officials, and institutional leaders came together to advance strategic collaboration across education, security, culture, finance and economic development.
UK–Turkmenistan Structured Dialogue sets the tone
The annual meeting of the UK–Turkmenistan Structured Dialogue
Ahead of the Central Asia Foreign Ministers’ Summit, the annual UK–Turkmenistan Structured Dialogue convened with the participation of His Excellency Rashid Meredov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, and Mr Hamish Falconer, Minister from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office.
Discussions centred on
- expanding co-operation in education and academic partnerships
- strengthening regional and international security
- deepening bilateral trade and economic engagement
A key achievement was the signing of the Programme of Co-operation for 2026-2027, representing a concrete step in advancing the long-term strategic partnership between Turkmenistan and the United Kingdom.
Day 1 Cultural, educational and diplomatic highlights
The opening day of the Central Asia+United Kingdom Foreign Ministers’ Summit was marked by celebrating both cultural heritage and modern co-operation.
With the Duke of Edinburgh at the historic Lancaster House
At the historic Lancaster House, the Duke of Edinburgh hosted an education and business reception that brought together regional leaders, UK partners, and current Chevening scholars from Turkmenistan – underscoring the strength of people-to-people connections.
Adding cultural significance, a manuscript of Magtymguly Pyragy, the renowned Turkmen poet and philosopher, was displayed, symbolizing the enduring cultural ties between Turkmenistan and the United Kingdom.
Welcoming ceremony at the Horse Guards building
The ministers were later welcomed with official ceremony at the Horse Guards building, reflecting the importance attached to the CA+ UK relationship. The day concluded with a visit to the Palace of Westminster, including a meeting with the Speaker – an important step toward enhancing parliamentary co-operation. [Image Speaker_of_Parliament.jpg]
Engagement with the London Stock Exchange
On 26 February, the programme continued with a visit to the London Stock Exchange (LSE) – a global centre of finance and innovation.
Central Asian Foreign Ministers at the London Stock Exchange
A joint meeting between the Central Asian Foreign Ministers, LSE CEO Julia Hoggett, and Economic Secretary to HM Treasury Lucy Rigby MP facilitated forward‑looking discussions around
- strengthening capital market connectivity
- enhancing investment flows
- exploring new financial instruments and economic partnerships
A visit to the London Stock Exchange
The meeting reaffirmed a shared commitment to expanding financial co-operation and unlocking new opportunities for mutual growth between Central Asia and the UK.
Historic CA5+ UK plenary and bilateral talks
Meeting of Foreign Ministers from all five Central Asian nations in the CA5+UK format in London
The first-ever meeting of Foreign Ministers from all five Central Asian nations in the CA5+UK format was a milestone event held in London on 26 February. The gathering established a new platform for comprehensive regional collaboration with the United Kingdom.
The UK’s Foreign Secretary, The Right Honourable Yvette Cooper MP meets the Turkmenistan’s Foreign Minister, His Excellency Rashid Meredov
Following the plenary session, a bilateral meeting took place between the UK’s Foreign Secretary, The Right Honourable Yvette Cooper MP, and Turkmenistan’s Foreign Minister, His Excellency Rashid Meredov, at Lancaster House.
The discussions emphasised
- strengthening regional security mechanisms
- broadening educational partnerships and academic exchange
- unlocking the full potential of economic and trade relations between Turkmenistan and the UK
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to building a mutually beneficial and future‑oriented partnership.
A new chapter in Central Asia–UK co-operation
The series of engagements in London showcased the growing importance of Central Asia’s partnership with the United Kingdom. Through expanded dialogue, cultural exchanges, and new frameworks for co-operation, the meetings laid solid groundwork for deeper collaboration in the years to come.
