Afghanistan Talks: Turkmenistan’s deputy foreign minister Akhmet Gurbanov joined an EU–Central Asia meeting in Almaty focused on Afghanistan’s stability, humanitarian needs, and regional connectivity. Regional Research Diplomacy: The Taliban will host a Kabul forum tomorrow bringing together Afghanistan, Central Asia and Azerbaijan research centers to discuss trade, transit, energy and policy recommendations. TAPI Progress: In Herat, Taliban officials say construction of the Turkmenistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan–India gas pipeline has reached 52% completion, with dozens of kilometers laid and more burial work planned through end-2026. Azerbaijan Visit Prep: Turkmenistan’s ambassador in Baku says President Serdar Berdimuhamedov is expected to visit Azerbaijan, with multiple bilateral documents on the agenda. Oil & Gas Procurement: Berdimuhamedov approved major purchases of steel pipes and drilling equipment for Türkmengaz and Türkmennebit, plus updated tender procedures for transport-sector procurement. Public Health Campaign: Ashgabat launched a May–August drive with UNICEF to boost exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, citing a drop from 56.5% (2019) to 35.5% (2024). Cultural Diplomacy: A Turkmen carpet maker wove a Pushkin fairy-tale design in partnership with the National Museum of Turkmen Carpets, presented as friendship with Russia. Neutrality Spotlight: Russia’s ambassador highlighted Turkmenistan’s permanent neutrality as a stabilizing factor and pointed to ongoing consultations with Ashgabat. Digital Controls: A rights report says Turkmen authorities have tightened digital repression, including targeting tools used to bypass censorship.