Independence Anniversary Diplomacy: Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev sent congratulatory telegrams to Turkmenistan’s President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and National Leader Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, praising Turkmenistan’s modernization, neutrality and growing international standing. Pardons at 35 Years: President Berdimuhamedov signed a decree pardoning 1,054 convicted citizens on the 35th anniversary, ordering authorities to release them and return them to families. Sports—Asian Games: Turkmen track-and-field athletes began competing at the XX summer Asian Games in Japan, with veteran sprinter Valentina Meredova among the first on the track; meanwhile, a Turkmen tennis player Nazli Hudaygulyyeva will make her first appearance for Turkmenistan at the Asian 14U Junior Championships in Thailand. Regional Security: Pakistan urged ECO members to tackle militancy emanating from Afghanistan as key to lasting regional peace and stability, while ECO officials discussed connectivity and integration. Aviation Disruptions: New US sanctions continue to disrupt Iranian air travel, with Najaf airport suspending flights to and from Iran and the UAE also halting Iranian airline services. Economy: Turkmenistan’s GDP growth is projected at 6.3% in 2026, alongside job creation and major investment plans.