U.S. Visa Policy: The U.S. is making its refundable visa bond program permanent for applicants from 50 countries, with consular officers able to require deposits of $10,000–$20,000 for B1 business and B2 tourism visas; the money is returned if travelers follow visa conditions and leave on time, but can be forfeited for overstays. Regional Diplomacy: Turkmenistan’s Serdar Berdimuhamedov is in the middle of a Central Asia–Azerbaijan push, with the next summit set for Oct. 8 in Avaza and a draft agenda focused on security, diplomacy, economy/logistics, environment, and humanitarian ties. Central Asia–Korea Summit Prep: Turkmenistan’s deputy foreign minister took part in Astana talks to finalize the “Seoul Declaration” for the first Central Asia–Republic of Korea summit. Culture & Sports: Ten Turkmen schoolchildren will compete in the international iWISE STEM/robotics contest in London, while Arkadag’s “Arkadag” club will play a qualifying match in the AFC Champions League Two on Aug. 12. International Engagement: Switzerland’s foreign minister Ignazio Cassis will visit Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan (Aug. 3–5), including meetings in Ashgabat on OSCE priorities.