Independence Day in Ashgabat: Turkmenistan marked its 35th anniversary with a grand military and civilian parade and “Celebration of Creation,” spotlighting defense strength, economic growth, and cultural heritage. Sports & doping: At the Asian Games in Japan, Uzbekistan’s Nodirbek Shavkatov was provisionally suspended after a meldonium positive test, following Turkmen karateka Dayanch Keletliyev’s earlier meldonium case. Turkmen diplomacy: Turkmenistan’s MFA reported talks with Georgia’s ombudsman on expanding cooperation in human rights and parliamentary work, alongside congratulations for the Independence anniversary. Regional ties: Kazakhstan’s Tokayev sent congratulatory telegrams to Turkmenistan’s leadership, while Bahrain’s crown prince also offered Independence Day messages. Central Asia on the agenda: U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to visit Samarkand in mid-October for C5+1 talks with foreign ministers and a delegation of 100+ American companies, linking diplomacy with investment. Energy in the Caspian: XRG announced a Final Investment Decision for the Absheron offshore gas expansion in Azerbaijan, with production targeted for 2029. Aviation disruption: UAE airports saw major travel delays and cancellations, with 46 flights affected amid broader regional disruptions.