Afghanistan–Turkmenistan Trade Push: The Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Investment sent a delegation to Ashgabat to expand trade and propose a new transit corridor linking Türkmenabat to northern Afghanistan and Mazar-i-Sharif, with an invitation for Turkmenistan to send 100 entrepreneurs to Kabul. OSCE and Swiss Ties: President Serdar Berdimuhamedov met Swiss OSCE chair Ignazio Cassis, stressing cooperation on energy, transport, environment, water use, and human rights, with plans for more high-level regional events in Ashgabat. Breastfeeding Support: A national roundtable in Ashgabat, backed by UNICEF and the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation, called for stronger guidance and practical help for mothers, including peer-to-peer counseling. Sports Diplomacy: Turkmenistan and Abu Dhabi Cycling Club launched a joint road cycling training camp in Ashgabat through Aug. 20. Caspian Under Strain: New reporting links falling Caspian water levels to reduced river inflows, warning the sea is nearing collapse as withdrawals intensify. Belarus Consular Update: Belarus will require online appointments for visas, criminal-record certificates, and document legalization starting Aug. 7, 2026.