Author: Derya Soysal

About 4 thousand citizens of foreign countries returned from Iran to their homeland with the assistance of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. As noted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Turkmenistan continues to ensure unimpeded transit of foreign citizens leaving Iran through humanitarian corridors. “To date, 52 countries have asked Turkmenistan to assist in the return of their citizens to their homeland in view of the situation in the Middle East. All requests are processed promptly, in cooperation with diplomatic missions of foreign countries in Turkmenistan,” the department explained. Earlier it was reported that citizens of…

Samarkand, Uzbekistan — Nestled along the ancient Silk Road, Samarkand is often celebrated for its breathtaking architecture and vibrant bazaars. But beyond its turquoise domes and mosaic-covered madrasas lies a lesser-known legacy: a city that once stood at the forefront of global scientific advancement. Samarkand, the historic capital of Uzbekistan, is known for being one of the most beautiful cities in the world and one of the most touristy cities in Asia. Although this sky-beautiful city is known for its beautiful historical buildings, it also holds a vital place in history. This city is not only touristy but is the…

Brussels, June 2025– As the global energy transition accelerates, the European Union is stepping up efforts to secure supplies of critical minerals essential for green technologies. At the heart of this strategy lies Kazakhstan, a resource-rich Central Asian country increasingly sought after by Western powers. The EU has included recently the Sarytogan graphite deposit, located in the Karaganda region of Kazakhstan, in the list of strategic initiatives, according to the Ministry of Industry and Construction of the country. During a series of meetings held in Brussels this December, representatives from the EU and the Kazakh government emphasized the growing importance of…

Looking for a destination that blends ancient history, spiritual depth, and modern charm? Nestled in the sun-drenched steppes of southwestern Kazakhstan, Turkistan is calling. With its breathtaking architecture, sacred heritage, and vibrant cultural life, this city offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of Central Asia. The reporter from, EUREFLECT, EUREPORTER and EurasiaFocus recently had the privilege of visiting this magnificent city, witnessing firsthand its transformation into a cultural and spiritual beacon. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or simply in search of beauty and authenticity, Turkistan promises an experience like no other. In recent months, the Kazakh city of Turkistan has been gaining…

Response to Derya Soysal’s question following the NATO Parliamentary Speakers Summit in Brussels TBMM (Grand National Assembly of Turkiye) Speaker Numan Kurtulmuş provided comprehensive answers to questions regarding Central Asia and the Turkistan region at the NATO Parliamentary Speakers Summit held in Brussels. When Central Asia expert Derya Soysal asked about Turkiye’s stance towards Turkistan, Kurtulmuş emphasized that the relations are based on brotherhood. She added, quoting Ahmet Demirok, that Turkmenistan-Turkiye relations are excellent. “After the Cyprus issue, negative perceptions arose towards Turkistan, but these states are our brothers, and Turkiye’s relations with them are excellent,” She said, then asked…

Brussels, June 18, 2025 – Central Asian nations took center stage at a unique tourism and networking event organized by Turkish Airlines in Brussels, highlighting the region’s growing appeal as a travel destination. The event, titled Connecting Together, was held at the headquarters of TOBB (The Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Türkiye) and brought together tourism professionals, travel agencies, and airline executives from across the BeNeLux region and Asia. Turkish Airlines, consistently ranked as Europe’s best airline, hosted the workshop with the support of Amina Kokten, Sales & Marketing Executive. The event aimed to foster collaboration between Turkish Airlines’ BeNeLux…

Astana, June 17, 2025 Following the Italy–Central Asia Summit and now the China–Central Asia Summit, Kazakhstan continues to assert its pivotal role as the leading power in Central Asia. The second Central Asia–China summit concluded on June 17 with the signing of the Treaty on Eternal Good-Neighborliness, Friendship, and Cooperation, marking a significant step in strengthening mutual trust and strategic cooperation between the five Central Asian states and China. Since the first China–Central Asia summit held in Xi’an in 2023, trade between China and Central Asian countries has surged by 35%, reaching a historic high of nearly $100 billion last year.In…

MEETING OF THE HEADS OF INVESTMENT PROMOTION AGENCIES OF THE TURKIC WORLD FOR NETWORKING AND COLLABORATION 12 June 2025, Tashkent – Tashkent International Investment Forum In a pivotal step toward fostering deeper economic ties across Turkic states, investment promotion leaders gathered in Tashkent to launch a new era of coordinated action and strategic collaboration. Among the highlights of the session were keynote interventions from high-level figures, including Ramil Babayev, General Director of the Turkic Investment Fund Farid Mammadov, Project Director of the Organization of Turkic States Baghdad Amreyev, President of the Turkic Investment Fund Yusif Abdullayev, Executive Director of the…

At the TASHKENT INTERNATIONAL INVESTMENT FORUM (TIIF 2025), Farkhod Ermanov  delivered a powerful message about Karakalpakstan’s growing role in regional and global commerce. Situated in the heart of Central Asia, this region of Uzbekistan is leveraging its natural wealth, strategic location, and progressive policies to attract investment and international cooperation. This trip was promoted by Saida Mirziyoyeva during TIIF 2025. With a population of 2 million and a gross regional product of $3.5 billion, Karakalpakstan posted $1.6 billion in foreign direct investment in 2024 alone. Foreign trade turnover reached $681.6 million, reflecting dynamic growth and deepening global ties. Enterprises from…

Kazakhstan is emerging as a powerhouse in Central Asia, driven by its dynamic economy, abundant resources, and strategic investments. At the heart of this transformation stands Samruk-Kazyna, the nation’s sovereign wealth fund, which plays a critical role in attracting foreign investments and fostering economic resilience. During the Astana International Forum on May 29, 2025, key figures from Samruk-Kazyna shared insights into the fund’s ongoing initiatives, long-term vision, and commitment to strengthening Kazakhstan’s position in the global economy. Samruk-Kazyna manages assets exceeding $82 billion, ranking as the 22nd largest sovereign fund worldwide. Its diversified portfolio spans vital industries including oil and…