CIS Diplomacy: Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to travel to Turkmenistan next week for a CIS summit, with plans to inaugurate a high-tech enterprise and meet Russia’s Security Council, as Ashgabat continues its rotating CIS chair role. Investment & Demographics: At the Turkmenistan Investment Forum in Ashgabat, UNFPA highlighted “demographic intelligence” as a key input for economic diversification and long-term capital planning. Earthquake Preparedness: Qatar Red Crescent Society hosted the IFRC “ShakeSmart” workshop, using lessons from the 1948 Ashgabat quake to push practical public messaging and drills built around “drop, cover and hold on.” Travel Rules Update: Turkmenistan’s e-visa system launched in early October, replacing the old invitation-letter requirement, with three categories for tourist, business and humanitarian travel—though portal access and eligibility details are still being rolled out. Regional Partnership: A new stage in Uzbekistan–Turkmenistan strategic cooperation is being framed around security, water, energy, transport and humanitarian ties. EU Cultural Outreach: European Culture Days are scheduled in Ashgabat in November, featuring Italian jazz performer Simona De Rosa.