MBABANE — A high-level business delegation from Turkmenistan has arrived in Eswatini to strengthen bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, and development, following recent efforts by both countries to formalise diplomatic relations.
The delegation received an official welcome from the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hon. Pholile Shakantu, together with the Minister of Home Affairs, HRH Princess Lindiwe. The visit builds on the momentum created by His Majesty King Mswati III’s visit to Turkmenistan last year, which set the foundation for closer diplomatic and economic engagement.
The business delegation is led by Mr. Abdurakhmanov Khydyrberdi Bayrammyradovich, Founder and Owner of Aydyn Gijeler Holding LTD, a vertically integrated industrial group with operations in manufacturing, infrastructure development, electronics, and information technology solutions. The programme is being coordinated by His Excellency Ambassador Thami Dlamini, who is overseeing engagements during the visit.
The visit follows a significant diplomatic milestone achieved on August 5, 2025, when the Kingdom of Eswatini and Turkmenistan signed a Protocol on the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations. The agreement was signed by Senator Pholile Shakantu on behalf of Eswatini and H.E. Rasi Meredow for Turkmenistan, formally opening channels for diplomatic, economic, and technical cooperation between the two countries.
The partnership holds strategic importance as both nations are landlocked and face comparable development challenges. The new diplomatic framework creates opportunities for collaboration in key sectors including energy, agriculture, climate resilience, infrastructure development, and technology, while also strengthening cooperation in multilateral platforms, peacebuilding, and sustainable development initiatives.
The visit by the Turkmen business delegation represents a practical step toward translating diplomatic relations into tangible economic partnerships. It underscores Eswatini’s commitment to attracting international investment and fostering strategic alliances that support national development priorities.
As Eswatini and Turkmenistan deepen their engagement, the focus remains on building long-term partnerships that promote shared growth, innovation, and sustainable development for the benefit of both nations.
