Culture
Turkmenistan took part in the TURKSOY writers’ meeting
30.08.2026A meeting of writers and poets from the member states of the International Organisation of Turkic Culture (TÜRKSOY) took place in the city of Andijan. Turkmenistan was represented by Akmyrat Rejepov, Deputy Head of the Department for Creative Workers at the Ministry of Culture of Turkmenistan, according to the press office of the Ministry of Culture of Turkmenistan. The event, organised by TURKSOY, the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the Authors’ Association of Uzbekistan and the Andijan Regional Administration, took place as part of the designation of the city of Andijan as the ‘Cultural Capital of the Turkic World’ for 2026. Participants discussed the creation of a common digital literary platform for the Turkic world, an electronic library and an information system on writers. Issues relating to the preservation and translation of literary heritage, joint participation in book fairs and festivals, as well as the organisation of festivals for young poets and a literary forum, were also considered. On the same day, a conference dedicated to the literary heritage of Ziya Gokalp was held at the Andijan State Medical Institute. The event was organised as part of TURKSOY’s declaration of 2026 as the ‘Year of Ziya Gokalp’. Following the events, several participants were presented with letters of appreciation from the Authors’ Association of Uzbekistan.
Ashgabat will host Korean Culture Week in November
28.08.2026‘Korean Culture Week’ is to take place in Ashgabat this November. This was announced by the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Turkmenistan following a meeting between Ambassador Lee Won-jae and the Turkmen Minister of Culture, Gurbanmyrat Myrataliyev, according to the news website Turkmenportal. The parties discussed the expansion of cultural cooperation. Lee Won-jae called for attention to be paid to the preparation of the event and for assistance to be provided in organising it. According to the Ambassador, the first visit by the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, to the Republic of Korea, scheduled for September, will give further impetus to the development of cultural ties. The first summit between the leaders of the Central Asian states and the Republic of Korea will also take place in Seoul on 16–17 September. The presidents of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan are expected to attend.
Turkmenistan will present photographic works at the UNESCO exhibition in Almaty
16.08.2026Photographs from Turkmenistan will be included in a UNESCO exhibition dedicated to the culture, traditions and natural heritage of Central Asia. The exhibition is due to take place in autumn 2026 in Almaty, according to the online news site AsmanNews. The exhibition will showcase the best entries from the international photography competition ‘Nomadic Culture of Central Asia: Preserving Traditions and Biodiversity’. In addition to Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan will take part in the exhibition. The photographs will depict traditional livestock farming, intangible cultural heritage, the lives of local communities, pastures and the region’s natural landscapes. The works were selected by the UNESCO Regional Office in Almaty as part of the International Year of Pastures and Pastoralists. The competition was open to professional and amateur photographers aged 18 and over.
Turkmenistan preserves its historical and cultural heritage
14.08.2026In the run-up to the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s independence, the country is taking stock of its efforts to preserve its historical and cultural heritage and develop its culture. State policy combines ancestral traditions with modern technologies, reports AsmanNews, citing the newspaper ‘Neutral Turkmenistan’. One of the main tools for the protection of monuments is the State Register of National Historical and Cultural Heritage Sites. Its data is integrated into land registries, which allows archaeological sites to be taken into account in urban planning. As part of the ‘State Programme for 2022–2028’, research is being carried out at historical heritage sites, including the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Ancient Merv, Nisa and Kunya-Urgench, as well as the ‘käriz’ (qanat) at the Paryz-Depe settlement. Ground-penetrating radar, digital technologies and 3D modelling are being used in the study of Bronze Age settlement sites — Gonurdepe, Altyndepe and Namazgadepe. The work by the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, entitled ‘Anau – Culture Originated from the Millennia’, remains a key scholarly source on the country’s ancient history. The book presents research on Turkmenistan’s role in the development of ancient civilisations and the Great Silk Road. International scientific cooperation constitutes a separate area of focus. One example of this was the exhibition ‘Ancient Civilisations of Turkmenistan’ at the Capitoline Museums in Rome, which showcased artefacts from Margiana and Parthia.
A portrait of Nury Halmamedov has been in the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts for 60 years
12.08.2026The State Museum of Fine Arts of Turkmenistan houses the painting ‘Portrait of the Composer Nury Halmamedov’ by Mamed Mamedov, an Honoured Artist of Turkmenistan. In 2026, the work will celebrate its 60th anniversary, according to the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The portrait holds a special place amongst the numerous works of art dedicated to Nury Halmamedov. In the painting, the composer is depicted against a rural landscape, leaning against an old mulberry tree. His bright red shirt contrasts with the autumnal colours of nature and serves as a compositional focal point of the painting. Art historian and Honoured Worker of Culture of Turkmenistan Azat Annayev notes that the work is open to two interpretations. According to the first, the artist captured the composer in a moment of creative reflection. The second is linked to the recollections of Yevgeny Mikhelson, an Honoured Artist of Turkmenistan, who recounted how Nury Halmamedov stood in the courtyard, leaning against a tree, whilst awaiting the admissions committee’s decision. According to Azat Annayev, Mamed Mamedov portrayed the composer not only as an outstanding musician, but also as a man deeply invested in his creative work. The image of the mulberry tree in the painting also takes on symbolic significance, evoking notions of resilience and vitality. Mamed Mamedov and Nury Halmamedov were born in 1938. Both were brought up in a children’s home and received higher education at art universities in Russia. In 1964, Mamed Mamedov graduated from the I. Repin Leningrad Institute of Painting, Sculpture and Architecture and returned to Turkmenistan. In the 1960s, the artist became one of the leading figures of a new generation of Turkmen painters. He was a member of the ‘Magnificent Seven’ – a group of seven Turkmen painters so named by the art historian Galina Saurova. Mamed Mamedov’s works are on display at the State Museum of Fine Arts of Turkmenistan. These include ‘Prayer for Water’, ‘Wedding’, ‘Conversation about the Universe’, ‘Karakum’ and other pieces. Among these, ‘Portrait of the Composer Nury Halmamedov’ is considered one of the artist’s most famous works. Six decades on, the painting continues to hold its place in the museum’s exhibition, portraying the image of the outstanding Turkmen composer through a combination of portraiture and symbols of his native landscape.
National costumes preserve the traditions of the Turkmen people
10.08.2026The national costumes of the Turkmen people remain an important part of their cultural and historical heritage and of modern everyday life. They retain their traditional cut, colour schemes and cultural significance. This was reported by the press office of the Ministry of Culture of Turkmenistan. Turkmenistan is known for its well-developed textile industry. Local weaving traditions were shaped by the characteristics of a nomadic and semi-nomadic way of life. Wool, cotton and keten silk were traditionally used to produce fabrics. In clothing culture, great importance was attached to age and family status. Everyday attire was characterised by practicality, whilst festive attire featured rich decorative embellishments. The women’s national costume consisted primarily of long, straight-cut dresses. A woman’s age, marital status and affiliation with a particular region or tribe could be determined by the colour of the fabric, the design of the collar and the type of headdress. Embroidery held a special place. The art of embroidery, included in UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, became one of the main decorative elements of national dress. The intricate patterns on the collars not only added decorative flair to the outfits but also reflected the distinctive features of individual regions. Women’s costumes were complemented by silver jewellery set with carnelian. A distinct type of women’s clothing is the ‘Ýanly köýnek’ – a dress characterised by its distinctive cut and comfort. This tradition continues to this day. Experts gathered information on its manufacture during expeditions across the country’s regions. When sewing the dress, the front and back shoulder sections are first joined, then the collar is shaped. Its shape depends on the woman’s age and preferences and may be decorated with various patterns. The inner part of the back is traditionally reinforced with cotton fabric. Once the dress is complete, a tie is attached to the collar. Its ends may be decorated with multicoloured threads and tassels. The new dress is accompanied by good wishes for family well-being and the opportunity to wear it on festive occasions.
Turkmenistan is expanding its cultural heritage and international cooperation
06.08.2026Work is continuing in Turkmenistan to develop culture, preserve the national heritage and promote it abroad. One of the priorities of state policy is to support creative activities, modernise cultural infrastructure and improve the regulatory framework, according to the news agency TDH. Libraries, museums, theatres and arts institutions play a significant role in the cultural sphere. The country is implementing the ‘State Programme for the Development of the Library Sector in Turkmenistan for 2025–2029’, aimed at modernising library services and introducing digital technologies. Electronic catalogues and virtual libraries are expanding access to information resources. Museums in Turkmenistan continue their work to preserve the country’s historical and cultural heritage. Their collections are being expanded with new exhibits, whilst digital projects and virtual tours are being developed. In recent years, exhibitions of the country’s museum treasures have been held at cultural centres abroad, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and museums in Germany. In 2026, the exhibition ‘Ancient Civilisations of Turkmenistan’ concluded at the Capitoline Museums in Rome. Theatre, music and opera are flourishing. The country’s theatres stage productions based on works by Turkmen and foreign authors. The development of the national opera continues, with well-known works being reintroduced into the repertoire and new productions being created. As part of Culture Week 2026, the opera ‘Leyli and Majnun’ was performed. Particular attention is paid to the preservation of traditional art forms. The performing art of the bakhshi and the national art of singing and dancing known as ‘kushtdepdi’ are being developed. Specialists in the field of culture are trained at the Maya Kuliyeva Turkmen National Conservatoire and the Turkmen State Institute of Culture, as well as at music and art schools. In Ashgabat, construction is continuing on the ‘Güneşli’ Children’s and Youth Centre, which will house the Bazar Amanov State Children’s Library, complete with digital facilities and an observatory. The project is being funded by the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship. National competitions remain one of the key areas for fostering creative potential, including the President of Turkmenistan’s ‘Türkmeniň Altyn asyry’ Award, the television competition ‘Ýaňlan, Diýarym!’, as well as the ‘Çalsana, bagşy!’ and ‘Garaşsyzlygyň merjen däneleri’ competitions. Cultural diplomacy is an important part of Turkmenistan’s international cooperation. As part of the Strategy for the Development of Cultural Diplomacy in Turkmenistan for 2026–2052, the country is expanding its humanitarian ties and developing cooperation with international organisations, including UNESCO, TURKSOY and ICESCO. Cooperation with UNESCO on the preservation of sites of historical and cultural heritage continues. Monuments, traditions and natural sites in Turkmenistan of universal significance have been included in the organisation’s relevant lists. In 2026, Ashgabat hosted the 27th TURKSOY Opera Days, bringing together artists from Turkmenistan, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan. Events were also held to mark the 110th anniversary of the composer Veli Muhadov. Turkmenistan is expanding its cooperation with ICESCO following its granting of observer status with the organisation. During the ‘KazanForum 2026’ international events, initiatives to develop cultural cooperation were presented, including the prospect of Ashgabat being declared the cultural capital of the Islamic world in 2028. Cultural Days, exhibitions, concerts, theatre festivals and film screenings are held regularly both at home and abroad. In 2026, Azerbaijan Cultural Days took place in Ashgabat and Arkadag, whilst Turkmenistan Cultural Days were held in Moscow and Tbilisi. The domestic film industry is also developing. The film ‘The Composer’, produced by the Oguz Han ‘Türkmenfilm’ Association with the support of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship, has received international awards from TURKSOY. The film had previously been recognised at international film festivals. Cultural diplomacy is also linked to the development of tourism. As a member of the World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), Turkmenistan is developing cooperation in the field of cultural and educational tourism and the promotion of the country’s historical attractions. The works of Magtymguly Pyragy hold particular significance within the country’s cultural heritage. In 2024, the ‘Magtymguly Pyragy’ cultural and park complex was opened in Ashgabat to mark the 300th anniversary of the poet and thinker. Efforts are also being made to promote Ahal-Teke horses. To this end, international equestrian competitions and horse beauty contests are held, and the ‘Galkynyş’ National Equestrian Games Group performs abroad.
The ‘Melody’ Orchestra is to present a concert entitled ‘Heart of the East’ in Ashgabat
04.08.2026On 29 August, the ‘Watan’ Cinema and Concert Hall in Ashgabat will host a festive concert by the ‘Melody’ Youth Orchestra, entitled ‘Heart of the East’. This was reported by the news agency Orient. The programme will feature new orchestral arrangements of well-known Eastern compositions, combining traditional motifs with a contemporary sound. The musicians will perform pieces reflecting the cultural heritage of the peoples of the East. The repertoire will include Turkmen, Uzbek, Azerbaijani, Armenian, Tajik, Kazakh and Arabic melodies. Each piece will be presented in a contemporary orchestral interpretation whilst retaining its national character. The ‘Melody’ Orchestra, led by cellist Annaoraz Dovletov, is renowned for its performances of classical, contemporary and folk pieces in original arrangements. The organisers note that the event is aimed at a family audience. Seating in the auditorium is limited.
Turkmen performers receive awards at a festival in South Korea
23.07.2026The international song festival ‘A New Cultural Journey Along the Silk Road Through Arirang’ took place in Gwangju, South Korea, to mark the upcoming ‘Central Asia–Republic of Korea’ summit. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. Turkmenistan was represented at the event by Begench Gayipov, a lecturer at the Maya Kuliyeva Conservatoire, and Arslan Jumayev, an artist from the Cultural Centre of the Charjew etrap in the Lebap velayat. They performed their own interpretation of the Korean folk song ‘Arirang’ in traditional dress. Following the festival, the Turkmen artists were awarded commemorative medals and certificates from the Friendship Association in recognition of their contribution to the development of cultural dialogue and international humanitarian cooperation.
Turkmen cultural figures took part in the TURKSOY Young Poets’ Festival
22.07.2026Representatives from Turkmenistan took part in the 2nd International Festival of Young Poets of the Turkic World, which was held in Azerbaijan. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The event was organised by TURKSOY in conjunction with the Azerbaijani Ministry of Culture. The Turkmen delegation comprised Kerim Hallyev, Garahanjar Bayhanov and Yusup Meredov. The festival opened in Shusha as part of the Molla Penah Vagif Poetry Days. During the event, young poets were honoured for their contribution to the development of culture and literature in the Turkic world. Kerim Hallyev and Garahanjar Bayhanov were awarded the ‘Molla Penah Vagif’ medal, whilst Yusup Meredov was presented with a TURKSOY diploma.
Turkmenistan Culture Days in Georgia concluded with a festive concert
20.07.2026The closing ceremony of the Turkmenistan Cultural Days took place in Tbilisi. The event was held as part of the year-long programme ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’, according to the TDH news agency. The programme of cultural events began with a meeting between representatives of museums from Turkmenistan and Georgia. The participants discussed the state of cooperation, exchanged experiences and identified promising areas for future collaboration. During the events, the importance of cultural and humanitarian ties in the development of bilateral relations between the countries was highlighted. Participants emphasised that cultural cooperation helps to strengthen friendship between the peoples and deepens mutual understanding of the traditions and heritage of both nations. The closing event was a festive concert featuring Turkmen artists, pop singers, and dance and folk ensembles. The programme included musical and choreographic performances showcasing the achievements of Turkmen culture and the arts. The audience was particularly captivated by the Turkmen artists’ renditions of Georgian songs, which have come to symbolise the friendship and mutual respect between the peoples of the two countries. The Days of Turkmenistan’s Culture in Georgia drew to a close, having strengthened creative ties and cultural cooperation between the two countries.
A Turkmen delegation visited the Tbilisi State Conservatoire
18.07.2026As part of the Days of Turkmenistan Culture in Georgia, a meeting between representatives of music universities from the two countries took place at the Vano Sarajishvili Tbilisi State Conservatoire. This was reported by IIC of Turkmenistan. The meeting was attended by the rector of the Georgian conservatoire, Giorgi Vachnadze; the Deputy Minister of Culture of Turkmenistan, Nursahet Shirinov; and the Vice-Rector of the Maya Kuliyeva Turkmen National Conservatoire. The parties discussed the development of cooperation in the field of music education, including the exchange of experience, the organisation of joint concerts and the holding of masterclasses. A tour of the conservatoire was also organised for the Turkmen delegation. The visit concluded with a performance by the Turkmen musician Ashir Ashirov, who performed a piece by Chary Nurymov in the conservatoire’s Grand Hall.
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