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Turkmenistan and Pakistan discussed prospects for implementing joint projects
08.11.2026The Embassy of Turkmenistan in Pakistan held a meeting with representatives of Pakistani media outlets on 6 November. The discussions focused on the results of Turkmenistan’s international activities in 2026 and opportunities to expand bilateral relations. This was reported by the press service of the Turkmen diplomatic mission. During the event, journalists were briefed on the country’s most significant events and achievements in the political, economic, cultural and social spheres. A separate part of the presentations focused on Turkmenistan’s development priorities in the year marking the 35th anniversary of independence, celebrated under the motto “Independent Neutral Turkmenistan – the Homeland of Purposeful and Swift-footed Horses”. Participants were also presented with the outcomes of high-level international events held in Ashgabat and the Avaza National Tourist Zone. The forums addressed issues related to strengthening ties among countries in the region, maintaining peace and security, and promoting the principles of sustainable development. The agenda also covered energy cooperation, transport infrastructure development and the expansion of transit opportunities. Special attention was given to the activities of the latest session of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan. Pakistani journalists were briefed on the issues discussed, including key state policy objectives, socio-economic development priorities, measures to improve public welfare and expand opportunities for young people. An important part of the dialogue focused on further strengthening the partnership between Turkmenistan and Pakistan. The parties discussed opportunities for implementing joint infrastructure projects of regional significance. These include the Turkmenistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan–India (TAPI) gas pipeline and the Turkmenistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan (TAP) power transmission line. Cooperation in transport and telecommunications was also discussed. At the conclusion of the briefing, representatives of the Pakistani media thanked the Turkmen diplomatic mission for organising the meeting and providing the information. They noted that Turkmenistan’s international initiatives contribute to regional dialogue, strengthen mutual trust among states and create new opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation.
Performances by foreign theaters were presented on the stages of Ashgabat and Arkadag
08.11.2026From 5 to 9 November, Ashgabat and the city of Arkadag are hosting performances as part of an international theatre festival. Theatre companies from Kazakhstan and Armenia are presenting their productions to audiences and taking part in discussions on contemporary trends in the performing arts. This was reported by Arzuw.news, citing the “Neutral Turkmenistan” newspaper. In addition to the performances, the programme includes a meeting of theatre company directors. Discussions focus on preserving theatrical traditions, developing the performing arts and adapting theatre to the digital age. Askhat Zautbek, Director of the Kostanay Drama Theatre, presented the production The Spotted Dog Running Along the Seashore, based on the novella by Chingiz Aitmatov. The play was staged in collaboration with Belarusian colleagues and is performed without translation. According to Zautbek, the emotional depth and humanistic message of the work enable audiences to understand its meaning regardless of language differences. The V. Vagharshyan State Drama Theatre of Armenia brought the physical theatre production Abu-Lala Mahari to Turkmenistan, based on the work by Avetik Isahakyan. The theatre's Chief Director, David Harutyunyan, introduced the production, which marks the 150th anniversary of the poet's birth and offers a contemporary interpretation of a classic work of Armenian literature. The festival provides an opportunity to explore the theatrical traditions of different countries, promote professional dialogue and strengthen cultural ties.
18 schools in Turkmenistan have received the “Green School” status
07.11.2026The first stage of national certification under the Green School environmental programme, implemented by the Ministry of Education in cooperation with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has been completed in Turkmenistan. Following the assessment, 18 educational institutions were awarded Green School status: six received Level II certification and another twelve received Level I certification. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. The decision was made by the programme’s Certification Council at a meeting held at the United Nations building in Ashgabat. Preparations for certification began in 2025. The pilot project included schools in Ahal, Balkan, Dashoguz, Lebap and Mary velayats, as well as in Ashgabat and the city of Arkadag. As part of the programme, environmental clubs were established in schools, projects were carried out to adapt school infrastructure to climate change, and competitions on “Green Skills” and disaster risk reduction were organised. Practical activities include greening school grounds, environmental campaigns and preparing students for emergencies. For example, in Lebap Velayat, each class has “green leaders” who encourage their peers to take part in environmental initiatives. In Dashoguz Velayat, students plant trees and take care of them independently. UNICEF Representative in Turkmenistan Jalpa Ratna noted that the programme helps create a safe and environmentally sustainable learning environment while engaging children in addressing environmental challenges. UNICEF will continue to support the Ministry of Education in developing the initiative and expanding its reach. National Programme Coordinator Sapargeldi Durdyev stressed that the first stage of certification had confirmed the integration of environmental principles into school life. According to Durdyev, the results will enable educational institutions to identify their next areas of focus. Experts provided all 18 schools with recommendations. These include expanding waste separation and recycling, involving parents and local communities, and conducting regular evacuation drills. The education departments of the velayats and cities will monitor the implementation of the recommendations.
New methods for detecting methane leaks were studied in Ashgabat
07.11.2026A practical training session on the use of satellite data to detect and analyse methane emissions in the oil and gas sector was held in Ashgabat on 4–5 November. According to the Turkmenportal, more than 35 technical specialists from Turkmenistan’s government agencies and relevant organisations took part in the event. The training was organised by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), through the International Methane Emissions Observatory (IMEO), in cooperation with Carbon Limits. The event was supported by the project “European Union for Green Development in Turkmenistan: Policy Dialogue and Climate Action for 2024–2029”, co-funded by the European Union and the German Federal Foreign Office and implemented by GIZ. Participants included representatives of the state concerns Türkmengaz and Türkmennebit, the Natural Gas Research Institute, the Ministry of Environmental Protection, the Ministry of Energy and the National Space Agency. The programme covered the use of the UNEP/IMEO Methane Alert and Response System (MARS), the interpretation of high-resolution satellite imagery, the detection and prioritisation of major methane leaks, and the comparison of satellite data with ground-based measurements to estimate emission volumes. According to a specialist from the state concern Türkmengaz, the skills acquired will help identify leaks more quickly and reduce the time between their detection and repair. The training was conducted within the framework of the 2025–2026 Roadmap for strengthening the international cooperation of Turkmenistan within the framework of the «Global Methane Pledge» Initiative.
Turkmenistan and Pakistan strengthen cooperation in the customs sector
06.11.2026On November 3–4, a working meeting between representatives of the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan and the customs authorities of Pakistan was held at the Turkmenbashi International Seaport. The event was dedicated to exchanging experience and developing professional cooperation between the two agencies. This was reported by the press service of the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan. The participants focused on implementing joint initiatives under the World Customs Organization's programme for controlling passenger and cargo traffic, as well as the Interregional Network of Customs Services and Port Control Groups (IREN). Representatives of both countries shared their experience in this area and discussed opportunities for further cooperation. As part of the visit, the Pakistani delegation familiarized itself with the technical equipment and production infrastructure of the Turkmenbashi International Seaport. Particular interest was shown in the digital systems and modern solutions used at the customs post to control transit cargo and vehicles.
Turkmenistan and Japan intend to expand their economic partnership
06.11.2026On November 5, Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Japan Atadurdy Bayramov met with Japan's Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs, Akiko Ikuina. This was reported by Turkmenportal. During the talks, the Turkmen diplomat congratulated the Japanese representative on her appointment to the new position. He emphasized the importance of regular contacts and mutual high-level visits for the development of interstate relations. Atadurdy Bayramov also confirmed his readiness to promote the expansion of the bilateral partnership, including through the implementation of joint economic initiatives. Akiko Ikuina, in turn, noted Tokyo's interest in further strengthening ties with Ashgabat. She described Turkmenistan as an important partner in promoting an international order based on the rule of law, freedom and openness. Special attention during the conversation was paid to the prospects for economic cooperation. The Japanese side noted that, thanks to its significant natural gas reserves, Turkmenistan has already become a participant in a number of major joint projects. At the same time, Akiko Ikuina expressed interest in extending cooperation to new areas, including resource processing and reuse, as well as waste management. Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their intention to consistently develop Turkmen-Japanese cooperation in the political, trade and economic, cultural and other fields.
Projects for new facilities in the city of Arkadag were presented at an exhibition in Ashgabat
06.11.2026At the international exhibition «Development of Turkmenistan’s Construction, Industrial, Chemical and Energy Sectors», taking place in Ashgabat, models of facilities for the second phase of the city of Arkadag are on display. Their opening is scheduled for 2027. This was reported by the information agency «Turkmenistan: Golden Age». Among the new facilities is the high-tech «Arkadag» center, designed in the shape of a sunflower. The complex will become the commercial and public center of the new district. Nearby, «Saglyk» Park will be located, featuring a concert venue, green spaces and two bodies of water decorated with sculptures of Akhal-Teke horses and camel caravans. One of the facilities in the second phase will be a horseshoe-shaped bus station. The project was developed by the company «Yiti Galam», and construction was carried out by the business entity «Kent gurluşyk». According to «Yiti Galam» CEO Azat Artykov, the bus station will include international and intercity terminals. The complex is designed to serve up to 1,5 thousand passengers per day. Transportation around the city will be provided by electric cars and electric buses. The bus station is located 35 kilometers from Ashgabat and was designed on the principle of a mini-airport. The complex will feature screening and security systems, a car showroom and retail areas. The infrastructure of the city of Arkadag is being developed based on the «smart» city concept. Residential buildings have been equipped with «smart home» systems controlled via smartphone. High-speed fiber-optic internet, 5G communications, intelligent video surveillance and traffic management systems are also in operation. Eco-friendly vehicles are used for transportation, and «smart» bus stops have been installed along the streets.
The trade unions of Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan discussed cooperation
06.11.2026A meeting was held at the National Center of Trade Unions of Turkmenistan with a delegation from the Confederation of Trade Unions of Azerbaijan, which is visiting Turkmenistan. According to the Turkmenportal news website, the parties discussed the development of cooperation and the exchange of experience in protecting labor rights and providing social support to workers. Chairwoman of the National Center of Trade Unions of Turkmenistan Oguljennet Berdiliyeva spoke about measures to protect labor rights, provide social support to workers and improve mechanisms for assisting trade union members. She also expressed interest in expanding ties with Azerbaijani colleagues. Chairman of the Confederation of Trade Unions of Azerbaijan Sahib Mammadov presented the organization's main areas of activity, including the protection of labor rights, digitalization, legal assistance and the implementation of social projects. Particular attention was paid to the digital transformation of the voucher issuance system and the modernization of sanatorium and resort services. The parties discussed the implementation of the Memorandum of Cooperation signed in Baku in May 2026, the implementation of joint projects, the exchange of experience and further expansion of cooperation. As part of the visit, the Azerbaijani delegation also familiarized itself with the activities of the National Center of Trade Unions of Turkmenistan.
Ashgabat marked the 32nd anniversary of the Constitution of Tajikistan
05.11.2026On November 4, a ceremonial event marking the 32nd anniversary of the adoption of the country's Constitution was held at the Embassy of the Republic of Tajikistan in Turkmenistan. This was reported by Turkmenportal. Participants in the meeting noted the significance of this date, which is celebrated annually in Tajikistan on November 6. Tajikistan's Ambassador to Turkmenistan Vafo Niyatbekzoda spoke about the role of the country's President, Leader of the Nation Emomali Rahmon in drafting and adopting the fundamental law. The Constitution, reflecting the will of the Tajik people, laid the legal foundation for a sovereign, democratic, legal, secular and unitary state. Embassy staff also presented information on the history of the Constitution's adoption, subsequent amendments and additions, as well as the significance of the provisions enshrined in the document.
The Ambassador of Turkmenistan to France presented an award to the head of Bouygues
05.11.2026On November 2, 2026, a ceremony was held in Paris to present Martin Bouygues, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the French Bouygues Group, with the anniversary medal marking the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s permanent neutrality and a commemorative badge. This was reported by the news agency “Turkmenistan: Golden Age”. The award was presented on behalf of President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov by Maksat Charyev, Ambassador of Turkmenistan to France. The ceremony was held in accordance with the relevant Presidential Decree. In his address, the diplomat highlighted Martin Bouygues’ contribution to the development of interstate dialogue. The Ambassador also expressed gratitude to the management and staff of Bouygues for their long-standing work in Turkmenistan, particularly emphasizing the company’s role in transforming the architectural appearance of the capital. Over the years of cooperation, Turkmen and French specialists have gained extensive experience in implementing major projects. The ceremony also highlighted the importance of Turkmenistan’s permanent neutrality in promoting peace and international dialogue, as well as the role of the National Leader of the Turkmen People, Hero-Arkadag, in expanding the country’s international relations and President Serdar Berdimuhamedov’s commitment to continuing this policy. In his response, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Bouygues described receiving the award as a great honour and expressed gratitude to the leadership of Turkmenistan. The French businessman noted that the policy of permanent neutrality reflects the country’s commitment to peaceful development and dialogue. The head of the group also spoke about the hospitality of the Turkmen people and the country’s cultural heritage, particularly highlighting Turkmen carpets and Akhal-Teke horses. In an interview following the ceremony, Martin Bouygues emphasized that the award would serve as an additional incentive for the group to continue its activities in Turkmenistan and further strengthen ties between the two countries.
Turkmen journalists took part in the “Belt and Road” forum in China
05.11.2026On November 3–4, the International Media Cooperation Forum “Belt and Road – 2026” was held in the Chinese city of Fuzhou. More than 170 media representatives from various countries took part in the event, including staff members of the State News Agency of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the news agency “Turkmenistan: Golden Age”. Participants discussed the development of international media cooperation, joint projects and the application of digital technologies in journalism. Particular attention was paid to the reliability of information and the role of the media in covering the Belt and Road Initiative. Following the opening ceremony, the Fuzhou Initiative on Media Cooperation was adopted. During the discussions, representatives of foreign media outlets exchanged experience in preparing news materials and discussed prospects for multilateral partnerships. The Turkmen delegation told their colleagues about the development of the national media sector and the conditions created in the smart city of Arkadag. Foreign participants expressed interest in Turkmenistan and a desire to visit Ashgabat and Arkadag. The forum was organized by the editorial office of the Chinese newspaper “People's Daily”. On the second day, the Silk Road Award for International Communication ceremony was held, along with screenings of the documentary films that won the competition. Following the completion of the main programme, cultural events were organized for participants from more than 100 countries. These included tours of Fuzhou and a visit to the historic Yantaishan district.
A conference on international labor standards is taking place in Ashgabat
04.11.2026On November 4, an international scientific and practical conference entitled “The Role of Trade Unions in Promoting International Labour Standards and Sustainable Development” is being held at the Archabil Hotel in Ashgabat. The event is organized with the participation of the International Labour Organization (ILO). This was reported by Turkmenportal. The conference is attended by representatives of the Mejlis, the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of the Population of Turkmenistan, the National Trade Union Center, the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs, UN and ILO agencies, the International Trade Union Confederation, trade union associations from foreign countries, research institutions and universities. The opening session featured speeches by Oguljennet Berdiliyeva, Chairperson of the National Trade Union Center of Turkmenistan, Annamukhammet Sardzhayev, Chairperson of the Mejlis Committee on Social Policy, Mukhammetseyit Sylapov, Minister of Labour and Social Protection of the Population, Sergius Glowackas, Head of the ILO Bureau for Workers' Activities, Narine Saakyan, UNDP Resident Representative in Turkmenistan, and Jalpa Ratna, UNICEF Representative in Turkmenistan. As part of the high-level session “Social Dialogue as a Tool for Ensuring Sustainable Development and Social Stability”, heads of delegations from trade union associations of Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Georgia, Mongolia and Türkiye, as well as Anton Leppik, Executive Secretary of the Pan-European Regional Council of the International Trade Union Confederation, are delivering speeches. Participants are discussing the role of trade unions in ensuring decent work and social justice, the importance of international labour standards for socio-economic development, and the contribution of trade union organizations to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Representatives of trade unions from Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Mongolia, Türkiye and the Republic of Korea are taking part in the discussions.
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