Putin meets regional leaders in Turkmenistan forum

On October 11, 2024, President Vladimir Putin commenced a visit to Turkmenistan, where he participated in an international forum alongside Central Asian leaders and the president of Iran, Masoud Pezeshkian. The Kremlin indicated that discussions would focus on the Middle East situation, highlighting the ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region. This visit comes in the context of a recent $1.7 billion deal between Moscow and Tehran, which involves Iran exporting drones to Russia, a move that has raised concerns in the U.S. regarding military cooperation between the two nations. The forum also included the participation of other regional leaders, such as Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari and heads of Central Asian countries like Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. In his opening remarks, Putin reiterated his vision for establishing a 'new world order' with allies, reflecting Russia's intent to strengthen ties with neighboring countries amid international isolation. Putin's meeting with Turkmen President Serdar Berdymukhamedov, who took office in March 2022, is expected to further solidify bilateral relations. Turkmenistan, rich in natural gas, has maintained a policy of neutrality and isolation since gaining independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. This visit underscores the importance of regional cooperation in addressing shared challenges and enhancing economic partnerships. Overall, the forum serves as a platform for Russia to assert its influence in Central Asia while navigating complex international dynamics, particularly in light of its ongoing conflict in Ukraine and strained relations with the West.