Turkmen President Gurbanguly Berdimuhammedov has said his country is seeking to improve relations with Uzbekistan. In a speech on 13 June in Dasoguz Region, which borders Uzbekistan, Berdimuhammedov said Turkmenistan "should strengthen friendly relations with neighbouring countries". His remarks were broadcast on Turkmen TV the same day.

Recalling his meeting with the Uzbek counterpart, Islam Karimov, during the last CIS summit in Russia’s St Petersburg, Berdmuhammedov said that the two "had a detailed discussion on issues which should be resolved by the two sides".

Under the former president, Saparmyrat Niyazov, Turkmenistan avoided close contacts with neighbouring nations.