Turkmen president meets U S commander on cooperation

Turkmen President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow and head of U.S. Central Command Gen. James Mattis have pledged to promote and expand dialogue between the two countries, local media reported. In a meeting with Mattis here on Friday, Berdimuhamedow said cooperation with the United States is a priority in Turkmenistan's foreign policy. Mattis said the United States is ready to develop a comprehensive relationship with Turkmenistan, and sees the Central Asian country as a responsible and reliable partner. The two sides also discussed ways to ensure security and stability and address global threats and challenges. They also exchanged views on the prospects of bilateral partnership. The meeting came ahead of Berdimuhamedow's planned visit to the United States.