On 24 July 2026, the First International Forum of Sister Cities was held in Samarkand, Republic of Uzbekistan, with the participation of the Mayor of Ashgabat Rahym Gandymov.

The Forum brought together representatives of government authorities, local self-government bodies, international organizations and the expert community from nearly 30 countries. The participants discussed topical issues related to the development of intermunicipal cooperation, improvement of urban governance, introduction of modern technologies, and the exchange of best practices in the field of sustainable urban development.

In his address, the Mayor of Ashgabat emphasized the growing importance of cooperation between cities for expanding international partnership, implementing joint initiatives, exchanging best practices in digitalization, developing transport and engineering infrastructure, and creating a comfortable urban environment.

Particular attention was paid to the consistent development of the Turkmen-Uzbek strategic partnership based on the principles of friendship, good-neighborliness and mutual respect. The successful development of the sister city relations between Ashgabat and Tashkent, as well as the effective implementation of joint cultural and humanitarian projects, was highlighted.

Within the framework of the Forum, a presentation dedicated to the 145th anniversary of the city of Ashgabat was held, introducing participants to the achievements of the Turkmen capital in modern urban planning, architecture, landscaping and sustainable development.

In conclusion, confidence was expressed that the outcomes of the First International Forum of Sister Cities would contribute to the further expansion of international intermunicipal cooperation, the strengthening of partnership ties and the implementation of new joint projects.