BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 22. Turkmenistan and the
United States discussed the agenda of bilateral cooperation with
particular emphasis on the economy.
This was reflected in the statement of the Turkmen MFA,
following a meeting between Minister Rashid Meredov and newly
appointed Chargé d’Affaires ad interim of the United States
Diplomatic Mission in Turkmenistan Kristin Hawkins.
During the meeting, the sides reviewed the current state of
Turkmenistan–US relations and exchanged views on prospects for
further cooperation in political, diplomatic, trade and economic
spheres. Particular attention was paid to expanding contacts
between the two countries, including cooperation in economic
development, cultural and humanitarian exchanges, and interaction
within international organizations. The diplomats also discussed
regional and international issues of mutual interest, as well as
opportunities to maintain regular dialogue between the two
countries.
"Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to continuing
constructive engagement and further developing bilateral
relations," the statement says.
Meanwhile, Hawkins took over the position in July 2026,
succeeding Ambassador Elizabeth Rood, who concluded her diplomatic
tenure in Turkmenistan. Hawkins is a career U.S. Foreign Service
Officer. Before her appointment in Ashgabat, she served as U.S.
Consul General in Lahore, Pakistan, from 2023 through 2025.
Elizabeth Rood, a career member of the U.S. Senior Foreign Service
with the rank of Minister-Counselor, served as U.S. Ambassador to
Turkmenistan from July 2024.
