President Museveni has hosted Mr. Ata Serdarow, the leader of the Democratic Party of Turkmenistan, at State House Entebbe following Uganda’s recent presidential swearing-in ceremony.
Mr. Serdarow represented Turkmenistan President Serdar Berdimuhamedow at President Museveni’s inauguration held on May 12, 2026.
During the meeting, President Museveni thanked the Turkmenistan delegation for attending the ceremony and reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic relations with the Central Asian nation.
As a gesture of friendship, the Ugandan leader gifted Mr. Serdarow books about Uganda.
Speaking after the meeting, Mr. Serdarow expressed interest in expanding bilateral cooperation between the two countries, particularly through political, parliamentary and economic engagement.
“We wish to develop relations between our two countries and also strengthen cooperation between our parties and parliaments,” he said.
He also thanked Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the hospitality extended to the delegation during their stay in the country.
Mr. Serdarow described the visit as historic, noting that it was the first official visit to Uganda by a representative from Turkmenistan.
“This is my first time in Uganda and also the first time a representative from our country has visited here,” he said.
The envoy further briefed President Museveni on Turkmenistan’s economy, highlighting the country’s vast natural gas and oil reserves.
“Our country is rich in natural gas and oil reserves. We supply gas to China through three pipelines every year and we are also planning to build a fourth line,” he said.
He added that Turkmenistan exports cotton and textile products to several countries, including the United States of America, and also produces wheat and livestock products.
Despite challenges posed by water scarcity due to its largely desert landscape, Mr. Serdarow praised Uganda’s climate, natural environment and hospitality.
“I like this nation very much because of the weather, the water and the natural environment,” he said.
“Your people are very hospitable. We witnessed the unity and joy of Ugandans during our stay here,” he added.
The meeting was also attended by Henry Okello Oryem, the outgoing Minister of State for Foreign Affairs.
