Central Asia Investment Shift: The Eurasian Development Bank says China has overtaken Russia as the region’s top foreign investor, pouring funds into Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan since 2015—highlighting a major $9.4bn Turkmen oil project run by CNPC. Trans-Altai Cooperation: Xinjiang’s Trans-Altai subregional platform expands for the first time with Turkmenistan joining Kyrgyzstan at a June 10 conference in Altay, Xinjiang, focused on trade, logistics, energy, tech, agriculture, tourism and education. Azerbaijan on Screen in Ashgabat: An Azerbaijani feature film, “Homeland,” was screened at Ashgabat Cinema with Turkmen students and cultural figures in attendance. Franco-Turkmen Photo Exchange: A new exhibition, “A Journey to Turkmen Lands,” brings rare 1890 Paul Nadar photographs to Ashgabat’s Museum of Fine Arts from June 11–23. UNESCO Intangible Heritage Talks: Turkmenistan’s deputy foreign minister met Tajikistan’s envoy and UNESCO officials to discuss deeper cooperation on safeguarding intangible cultural heritage. Textile Partnership: Korea and Turkmenistan advanced textile ties via a technical seminar linking Turkmen cotton resources with South Korea’s technology support. Culture Diplomacy: Azerbaijan’s Culture Days in Turkmenistan wrapped with concerts and exhibitions, while Azerbaijani media visited the Turkmen National Carpet Museum. Health & Care Story: A personal account highlights multiple sclerosis treatment in Ashgabat, underscoring patient support and access to care. Gender Equality Plan: Turkmenistan approved a national action plan for gender equality for 2026–2030, directing ministries and local bodies to implement measures.