ASHGABAT — The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) has reinforced its commitment to assisting Turkmenistan in achieving its sustainable development ambitions, according to statements made by IsDB President Muhammad Al Jasser during a showcase of Turkmenistan’s economic achievements.

According to Trend News Agency, the reaffirmation occurred during Al Jasser’s attendance at an exhibition in Ashgabat, where he engaged in discussions with Turkmenistan’s Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers Hojamyrat Geldimyradov and Rahymberdi Jepbarov, Chairman of the Board of the State Bank for Foreign Economic Activity. The conversations focused on enhancing cooperation across various sectors including healthcare, telecommunications, and infrastructure. Emphasis was placed on aligning these efforts with Turkmenistan’s long-term national development strategy spanning 2022-2052.

The partnership between IsDB and Turkmenistan dates back to November 1994, highlighting a longstanding commitment to mutual development goals. In a significant move to bolster this collaboration, the IsDB’s Board of Executive Directors approved $369 million in June 2024 for new projects across its member countries. Of this, Turkmenistan was allocated $156 million to establish cancer centers and advance medical training programs. These initiatives aim to improve cancer care by increasing inpatient capacity by 33% and enhancing treatment quality for nearly 11,750 patients annually.