Culture
Restoration of a Buddha statue fragment continues in Turkmenistan
13.06.2026Representatives of the J. Paul Getty Museum (Los Angeles, USA) have arrived in Turkmenistan on another official visit to continue a project focused on the conservation and restoration of fragments of a 5th-century Buddha head statue discovered in Ancient Merv. This was reported by the news agency “Turkmenistan: Golden Age”. The work has been ongoing for several years at the State Museum of the State Cultural Center of Turkmenistan. The project is being implemented within the framework of the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) program and is significant for the study of Silk Road history and the preservation of cultural heritage. The expert team includes Dr. Suzanne Gansicke, head of the Antiquities Conservation Department at the Getty Museum, restorer Fabio Colombo, and 3D visualization specialist Giuseppe Salemi. At the current stage, the specialists have applied 3D printing technology and created a full-scale model of the Buddha’s head to strengthen the artifact and clarify missing elements. During the visit of U.S. Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy Sarah Rogers, a delegation including Special Assistant Vanessa Vidal Castellanos, Special Advisor Joseph Gunnar Sidak, and U.S. Ambassador to Turkmenistan Elizabeth Rood visited the State Museum laboratory. Professor Suzanne Gansicke presented the progress of the restoration work to participants and demonstrated the digital model and research results. The historical significance of the artifact was emphasized. The sculpture fragment was discovered in Ancient Merv in 1960 and dates back to the 5th century. It is part of a stupa—a Buddhist religious structure located in the city, which in antiquity was an important hub of the Great Silk Road. According to researchers, after the destruction of the stupa, Buddhist monks may have hidden the fragment to protect it from destruction. Suzanne Gansicke expressed gratitude to the leadership of Turkmenistan and the United States for supporting the project, as well as to the U.S. State Department for its attention to the specialists’ work. The visit of American restorers will last until June 20. The joint work of specialists from both countries is aimed at preserving the archaeological monument and developing cultural and humanitarian cooperation between Turkmenistan and the United States.
Turkmenistan Showcases Cultural Heritage at the National Museum in Bucharest
11.06.2026On June 9, the exhibition “Turkmenistan: 35 Years of Independence – A Celebration of Heritage and Culture” opened at the National Museum of the Romanian Peasant in Bucharest. The event was organized by the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Romania, according to the IIC. The exhibition is dedicated to the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s independence and the 2026 motto: “Independent and Permanently Neutral Turkmenistan – the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Steeds.” The opening ceremony was attended by representatives of the diplomatic corps, Romanian government institutions, academic and cultural circles, the business community, the media, and Turkmen students. Visitors were presented with Turkmen carpets, decorative and applied arts, national costumes, jewelry, and photographic materials reflecting the country’s cultural heritage and contemporary development. Special attention was given to Turkmenistan’s role in international humanitarian cooperation, including its collaboration with the United Nations and UNESCO in the preservation of cultural heritage. The exhibition highlighted the role of culture as an instrument of international dialogue and the strengthening of interstate relations.
Turkmenistan showcased its culture at a festival in Tokyo
09.06.2026From June 6 to 7 in Tokyo, as part of the Setagaya Festival, Turkmenistan presented its own stand dedicated to the country’s culture and history. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The exhibition included items of cultural heritage, national dishes and sweets, as well as traditional handicrafts and souvenir products. According to the organizers, the exhibition attracted strong interest from local residents: visitors explored informational materials about the country and showed interest in its tourism opportunities. Participation in the event contributed to strengthening cultural ties between Turkmenistan and Japan.
In Turkmenistan, a corner dedicated to Azerbaijani literature has opened
09.06.2026On June 6, a “Corner of Azerbaijani Literature” was inaugurated at the State Library of Turkmenistan as part of Azerbaijan’s Cultural Days. This was reported by the news website Asmannews. The ceremony was attended by representatives of the ministries of culture of both countries, the National Library of Azerbaijan, the country’s parliament, and the Union of Writers of Azerbaijan. As noted during the event, the new section will allow residents of Turkmenistan as well as the Azerbaijani diaspora to become familiar with works by Azerbaijani authors and public figures. The collection includes books on Azerbaijan’s history, culture, literature, and modern development, and it will be regularly updated with new publications.
The Culture Days of the Republic of Azerbaijan concluded in Turkmenistan
08.06.2026The Culture Days of the Republic of Azerbaijan in Turkmenistan have concluded in Ashgabat. On the final day of the program, members of the creative delegation visited cultural and historical sites in the capital and took part in film screenings, according to IIC. The guests were introduced to the exhibition of the National Museum of Turkmen Carpet, which features unique examples of traditional carpet weaving. The delegation was briefed on the characteristics of Turkmen carpet schools and the significance of this art form in national culture. They then visited the State Museum of the State Cultural Center of Turkmenistan. There, they were presented with archaeological and ethnographic exhibits reflecting various stages of the history of the Turkmen people and statehood. As part of the cultural program, Azerbaijani films were screened at the “Ashgabat” cinema. The audience watched the musical comedy “Arshin Mal Alan” and the film “Ene Toprak.” Thus, the Culture Days of the Republic of Azerbaijan in Ashgabat concluded, aimed at strengthening cultural ties between the two countries.
Turkmenistan’s Consulate General presents cultural program in Istanbul
08.06.2026On June 6, a cultural event organized by the Consulate General of Turkmenistan was held at Yıldız Technical University in Istanbul. The event was dedicated to the 2026 motto — “Independent Neutral Turkmenistan – the homeland of purposeful winged horses,” according to the news website Asmannews. The gathering brought together representatives of the Turkmen diaspora, lecturers, students, and guests interested in the country’s culture. Participants were presented with materials on Turkmen traditions, spiritual values, the history of statehood, and the country’s policy of neutrality. Special emphasis was placed on the significance of the 2026 motto and the symbolic role of Akhal-Teke horses as one of the national symbols of the country.
Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan discussed expanding cultural cooperation
07.06.2026A meeting was held at the Ministry of Culture of Turkmenistan between Deputy Minister Nursahat Shirimov and his Azerbaijani counterpart Murad Huseynov, according to the IIC. The sides discussed the development of intergovernmental cultural and humanitarian cooperation, as well as new areas of collaboration. A positive dynamic in bilateral relations was noted, with emphasis placed on the importance of strengthening ties based on the historical and cultural proximity of the two peoples. Special attention was given to cooperation in the field of cinematography, including joint projects and exchange of expertise between professionals. The importance of regularly holding Culture Days was also highlighted, as these events are seen as a tool for strengthening friendship and promoting the cultural heritage of both countries.
Arkadag City Hosts the Days of Azerbaijani Culture
07.06.2026Events dedicated to the Days of Azerbaijani Culture were held in the city of Arkadag, IIC reported. The program began with a scientific conference at the city library named after Döwletmämmet Azadi. Participants discussed the literary heritage of the Turkmen poet and thinker Döwletmämmet Azadi and the Azerbaijani enlightener Seyid Azim Shirvani, highlighting the historical ties between the cultures of the two peoples. A photo exhibition opened at the Arkadag Museum of History and Local Lore, dedicated to the traditions, history, architecture, and modern life of Azerbaijan. The events concluded with a joint concert by Turkmen and Azerbaijani artists. Folk and pop performances were presented for the audience. The national equestrian group “Galkynysh” also performed, showcasing a program featuring elements of equestrian stunts on Akhal-Teke horses.
Azerbaijani decorative and applied arts presented in Ashgabat
06.06.2026An exhibition of Azerbaijani decorative and applied arts has opened in Ashgabat. The exhibition is based on exhibits from the National Carpet Museum of Azerbaijan, covering a period from the 19th century to the present day, according to the IIC. A separate section is dedicated to carpet schools. On display are Guba carpets “Gymyly,” Karabakh carpets “Arjiman,” and Baku carpets “Zili.” Household items such as khorjuns and chuvals with traditional ornaments are also presented. The contemporary section features works by Azerbaijani masters, including tapestries by Khalida Nasirova titled “Azerbaijan in the Third Millennium” and carpets by Eldar Mikayilzade titled “Shebi-Khijran” and “Leyli and Majnun,” inspired by the poetry of Fuzuli. Jewelry and metalworking art pieces are also showcased. Visitors can see copper vessels, bathhouse chests (hamam trunks), and silver jewelry. The exhibition also demonstrates shebeke, a traditional technique of creating wooden window lattices with colored glass without the use of nails or glue. The organizers noted that the exhibition has become a platform for cultural exchange and expressed gratitude to the National Leader of the Turkmen people Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov and President Serdar Berdimuhamedov for organizing the Culture Days and supporting bilateral cooperation.
Turkmenistan hosts Days of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan
06.06.2026A ceremonial opening of the Days of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan took place on June 5 in Ashgabat at the Mukamlar Palace of the State Cultural Center of Turkmenistan. This was reported by AsmanNews. The event was attended by representatives of the cultural sectors of both countries, as well as artists and public figures. Speakers emphasized the importance of cultural cooperation in strengthening Turkmen-Azerbaijani relations and expressed gratitude to the leadership of both states for supporting humanitarian ties. It was noted that cooperation between Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan is steadily developing across various fields, including culture, with mutual visits and joint projects playing an important role. The central event of the first day was a concert featuring Azerbaijani and Turkmen artistic ensembles. Performers included the Azerbaijan State Orchestra of Folk Instruments named after Fikret Amirov, the Azerbaijan State Chamber Orchestra named after Gara Garayev, the percussion ensemble of the Azerbaijan State Dance Ensemble, as well as well-known performers from both countries. The program also included joint performances by Turkmen and Azerbaijani artists. One of the highlights of the evening was the performance of the “Küştdepdi” dance featuring the Turkmen “Galkynyş” ensemble and an Azerbaijani soloist. As part of the cultural days, the Museum of Fine Arts of Turkmenistan named after Great Saparmurat Turkmenbashi opened an exhibition titled “Pearl of Azerbaijan’s National Heritage.” The exhibition includes carpets, jewelry, embroidery, traditional headwear, and other exhibits from the collection of the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum. In addition, Azerbaijani feature films were screened at the “Ashgabat” cinema. The cultural program will continue in the city of Arkadag. Planned events include a scientific conference dedicated to the works of classical Turkmen and Azerbaijani literature, a photo exhibition, as well as a joint concert of artists from both countries featuring the Galkynyş National Equestrian Games Group.
Designers from France, Russia and Other Countries to Showcase Collections in Ashgabat
03.06.2026As part of the Turkmen Textile Expo 2026, which will take place in Ashgabat from June 4 to 6, international fashion shows will be held. This was reported by Turkmenportal. The runway shows will feature Turkmen brands as well as designers from France, Morocco, Oman, Uzbekistan and Russia. Visitors will be able to see clothing collections and contemporary interpretations of fashion. Among the invited guests are Marzio Nocera, owner of Fashion Channel, and Carlo D'Amario, CEO of Vivienne Westwood. France will be represented by the Claude Patrick Fashion House and Romuald Bertrand. Morocco will be represented by Wafaa Idrissi Haute Couture, while Oman will showcase the Yoland Fashion House. Uzbekistan will be represented by Dilovar Mirzaev and Madinabonu Ergashova, and Russia by Olga Kadeikina and the SOLOVE brand. Turkmenistan will present the Miras Fashion House, the brands Goç Ýigit, Däp, Gulyaka Lybaslary, Emine Bridal and Peykam, as well as designers Abat Muhammetniyazova, Seyrangeldy Berdyev and Anna Korostova. Throughout the exhibition, the catwalk will feature collections in both ethnic and contemporary styles.
Culture Days of Azerbaijan with a rich program to be held in Turkmenistan
02.06.2026Culture Days of Azerbaijan will be held in Turkmenistan from May 5 to May 7. The program includes concerts by Azerbaijani artists, exhibitions, film screenings, and scientific conferences. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. On June 5, screenings of Azerbaijani films “Tagiyev: Oil” (10:00) and “Dream of Paradise” (13:00) will take place at the Ashgabat cinema. At 15:00, the exhibition “Pearl of Azerbaijan’s National Heritage” will open at the Saparmurat Turkmenbashi Museum of Fine Arts. At 17:30, the opening ceremony of Culture Days of Azerbaijan in Turkmenistan will be held at the Mukam Palace. On June 6, a scientific conference dedicated to the works of Döwletmämmet Azady and Seyid Azim Shirvani will be held at the library of the city of Arkadag, with participation from academic circles of Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan. At 16:00, the photo exhibition “Azerbaijan – From Lens to History” will open at the Arkadag Museum. At 18:00, a joint concert of Azerbaijani and Turkmen artists will take place at the State Equestrian Sports Circus named after Görogly in Arkadag. On June 7, at 10:00 the film “Arshin Mal Alan” will be screened at the Ashgabat cinema, and at 13:00 “Native Land” will be shown. At 16:00, a scientific conference dedicated to the works of Magtymguly Fragi and Molla Panah Vagif will be held at the State Library of the State Cultural Center of Turkmenistan. The program will conclude at 19:00 at the Mukam Palace with the closing ceremony of Culture Days of Azerbaijan in Turkmenistan.
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