CIS Summit in Turkmenistan Discusses Enhancing Economic Cooperation Among Member States

Moscow, Oct 9 (KUNA) -- Leaders of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) discussed ways to strengthen political and economic cooperation and remove trade barriers among member states during a summit meeting in Turkmenistan on Friday. The Russian presidency (the Kremlin) said in a statement that the Council of Heads of State of the CIS convened in the Awaza tourist area of Turkmenistan, with Russian President Vladimir Putin and several other member-state leaders in attendance. During the meeting, Putin called for the removal of trade barriers, stressing that this would enhance cooperation opportunities and yield greater results among CIS countries. He also emphasized the importance of preserving shared history and introducing younger generations to the achievements of their peoples during the Soviet era. Putin announced an invitation to the member-state leaders to attend the traditional informal meeting scheduled to be held in St. Petersburg, Russia, on December 21 next year. Regarding the CIS chairmanship, Putin noted that Uzbekistan will assume the presidency in 2027, affirming that it can rely on Russia’s assistance. The summit brought together the leaders of Russia, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, along with the host country, Turkmenistan. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian participated in the proceedings for the first time, according to information regarding the meeting. The summit takes place against the backdrop of Turkmenistan’s chairmanship of the CIS in 2026, coinciding with the hosting of the Caspian Environmental Summit in Awaza, which addresses environmental issues and cooperation among Caspian littoral states. The CIS leaders are expected to issue a statement marking the 35th anniversary of the organization’s founding, as consultations continue on joint cooperation priorities and the next phase of its work. (End) Dan / T.M.A