Russia offers medical training support to Turkmenistan during Ashgabat visit

Russia is ready to help Turkmenistan train medical personnel and offer medicines, vaccines and medical equipment, Deputy Health Minister Evgenia Kotova told reporters in Ashgabat on October 10, according to RIA Novosti.

Kotova said the Russian delegation had travelled at the invitation of the Turkmen side. Its members included specialists in oncology, public administration, healthcare organisation and paediatrics, with the visit focused on learning about Turkmenistan’s healthcare experience.

The delegation visited newly opened medical facilities. Turkmenistan’s state news agency TDH independently reported the opening of an international oncology centre, a dental centre and an international paediatric centre in Ashgabat on October 10, with President Serdar Berdimuhamedov attending.

Kotova said a meeting with Turkmenistan’s health and medical industry minister was planned to discuss possible areas of cooperation. Her remarks described Russia’s willingness to work with its counterparts and did not announce a signed supply or training agreement.

The visit coincides with an international healthcare, education and sports exhibition and scientific conference running in Ashgabat from October 10 to 12.