Society
A calligraphy competition brought together Korean language learners in Ashgabat
14.10.2026On October 9, the King Sejong Korean Education Center in Ashgabat celebrated Hangul Day, a holiday dedicated to the Korean alphabet. The highlight of the event was a calligraphy competition titled “The Art of Beautiful Hangul Writing,”. This was reported the IIC of Turkmenistan. At the beginning of the event, participants learned about the history of Hangul Day and watched a themed video. They then moved on to the practical part of the competition. A total of 30 students from the center, representing different levels of proficiency, took part in the contest. Using brushes, they were asked to write a Korean phrase or lines from a poem and decorate their work according to their own creative vision. The jury assessed spelling accuracy and neatness, the correct stroke order and proportions, as well as the overall composition of the entries. According to the center's management, events of this kind introduce participants to Korean language and culture while encouraging greater interest in learning Korean in Turkmenistan. Hangul Day is celebrated annually in South Korea on October 9. The Korean alphabet was created at the initiative of King Sejong the Great in 1443 and officially introduced in 1446. The manuscript Hunminjeongeum Haerye, which explains the principles behind the Korean writing system, was inscribed on UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register in 1997.
Turkmenistan is exploring digital solutions in the migration sector
14.10.2026On October 12, 2026, an international training seminar on artificial intelligence and digitalization began in Wuhan, China. A delegation from the State Migration Service of Turkmenistan is participating in the event, according to the agency’s press service. Participants are discussing the introduction of digital identity documents and electronic passports, the modernization of border control and e-visa systems, biometric security, the use of artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. Special attention is being given to the adoption of advanced technologies in the migration sector. The seminar will run until October 26.
Turkmenistan presented its experience in developing the circular economy
14.10.2026Representatives of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan took part in the fourth interregional dialogue on circular economy, climate change and investment. The meeting was held in Dushanbe on October 12–13, 2026, under the European Union’s SWITCH-Asia programme, according to the press service of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan. The dialogue brought together experts, academics and parliamentary representatives. The programme included a plenary session and thematic discussions. Participants learned about the legislative work of Tajikistan’s parliament and circular economy practices at the production complex of Akia Avesto LLC. Representatives of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan outlined measures to promote the green economy, transition to a circular economic model and ensure environmental sustainability. The meeting also addressed the role of international cooperation, investment and interparliamentary dialogue among Central Asian countries in environmental protection and the development of the circular economy.
Ashgabat hosts a meeting of the DARYA program on vocational skills development
14.10.2026The fifth meeting of the High-Level Group of the DARYA Regional Programme opened in Ashgabat on 13 October 2026, focusing on skills development for the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. Participants discussed training qualified professionals for the transport and logistics sector, improving vocational education and strengthening cooperation among Central Asian countries. Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan M. Byashimova noted that improving transport connectivity helps expand regional and international cooperation. She emphasized that efficient transport corridors require both modern infrastructure and a skilled workforce. Particular attention was paid to human capital development, aligning vocational education with labour market needs and enhancing the competitiveness of the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor. The agenda also covered the exchange of experience between Central Asian countries and the European Union, cooperation among government bodies, educational institutions and the private sector, and future priorities for regional cooperation. The meeting is ongoing.
The International exhibition in Ashgabat Expanded Industry Cooperation
13.10.2026The international exhibition in Ashgabat brought together representatives of the healthcare, education and sports sectors from Turkmenistan and foreign countries. The event took place on October 10–12, 2026, at the Exhibition Center of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan as part of the exhibition and scientific conference “Healthcare, Education and Sports in the Era of the Revival of a New Epoch of a Powerful State”. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. Representatives of international organizations and foreign educational institutions from Russia, Belarus, China, Georgia, the United Kingdom, Italy, Germany, the USA, Malaysia, Turkey and other countries participated in the exhibition. Participants presented educational programs, specialist training fields and opportunities to study abroad. The business program included negotiations in B2B and B2G formats, expert discussions, presentations of modern technologies and master classes. Participants exchanged experience, discussed industry issues and established professional contacts. The event was co-organized by TurkmenExpo. The exhibition was aimed at developing international cooperation in the fields of healthcare, education and sports.
Turkmenistan participates in the 77th session of the UNHCR Executive Committee
13.10.2026On October 12, the 77th session of the Executive Committee of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees opened in Geneva (Switzerland). The Turkmen delegation is headed by A. Sazakov, the Chairman of the State Migration Service of Turkmenistan, the agency's press service reported. The session is being held in the year marking the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees, which laid the foundation for the international system of protection for forcibly displaced persons. At the plenary session, A. Sazakov emphasized that the humanitarian sphere occupies an important place in Turkmenistan's state policy. The country's Constitution enshrines the recognition of the human being as the highest value of society and the state. The Chairman of the State Migration Service of Turkmenistan also highlighted the initiative of President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov to declare 2028 the International Year of Legal Rights. The initiative was put forward in 2025 at the 80th session of the UN General Assembly and is aimed at strengthening the rule of law and ensuring that states fulfill their international obligations. The presentation outlined the results of Turkmenistan's National Action Plan for the Elimination of Statelessness for 2019–2024. During this period, more than 32 thousand people acquired Turkmen citizenship, while over 5 thousand others received residence permits. In addition, on the eve of the country's 35th anniversary of independence, 146 foreign citizens were granted permission to reside in Turkmenistan in accordance with a decree issued by President Serdar Berdimuhamedov. The Turkmen side reaffirmed its readiness to expand international cooperation in the field of migration, develop the legal and regulatory framework, promote digital information exchange and participate in humanitarian programmes. A. Sazakov emphasized the importance of coordinating the efforts of states and maintaining international dialogue to ensure effective migration management. The meeting will continue until October 16.
Turkmenistan has joined the agreements on the development of the CASCA+ route
12.10.2026The railway administrations of Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Azerbaijan, Georgia and Turkey signed a six-party protocol in Tashkent on the development of the international multimodal CASCA+ route, connecting Central Asia, the South Caucasus and Turkey. This was reported by Orient. The parties agreed to reduce cargo delivery times, eliminate delays in transferring cargo between different modes of transport and reduce container dwell times at Caspian and Black Sea ports. Plans also include ensuring an uninterrupted supply of container flatcars and revising tariffs for transporting agricultural products and perishable goods in refrigerated containers. For Turkmenistan, the CASCA+ route is important for developing its transit potential. The Port of Turkmenbashi and the country's railway network provide transport links between Central Asia, the South Caucasus, Turkey and European markets.
Ashgabat is hosting an international exhibition on healthcare, education and sport
11.10.2026On 10 October, the international exhibition and scientific conference ‘Healthcare, Education and Sports in the Renaissance Era of a New Epoch of a Powerful State’ opened in Ashgabat. The three-day forum is timed to coincide with Healthcare and Medical Industry Workers’ Day in Turkmenistan and will run until 12 October, according to IIC of Turkmenistan. The event was organised by the relevant ministries, the State Committee for Physical Culture and Sport, and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan. The exhibition features domestic and foreign manufacturers, representatives of relevant government departments, scientists, experts and international organisations. The exhibits include medical equipment, pharmaceutical products, educational technologies, sports equipment and developments in the field of digitalisation and infrastructure modernisation. The business programme includes expert sessions, masterclasses and B2B and B2G negotiations. Participants are presenting new solutions, exchanging experiences and discussing prospects for cooperation. Particular attention is being paid to digital technologies in medicine and education, the development of sports medicine and preparations for major international competitions. The forum also hosts a scientific conference, at which specialists discuss current issues in cardiology and surgery, innovative teaching methods and the application of digital solutions.
Journalists from Turkmenistan have set off on a press tour of Turkey
11.10.2026From 10 to 14 October, representatives of Turkmenistan’s state and private media are taking part in an international press tour of Turkey. The trip is aimed at developing media cooperation between the two countries, according to the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The programme includes presentations, familiarisation events and visits to cultural and infrastructure sites. Participants will also explore Turkey’s tourist attractions. As part of the press tour, journalists will learn about the traditions and contemporary trends in Turkish culture, as well as the national cuisine and regional culinary specialities. The trip is intended to strengthen professional and cultural ties between media representatives from the two countries.
Discussions on developing cooperation with the IOM took place in Ashgabat
10.10.2026On 8 October, a meeting was held at the State Migration Service of Turkmenistan with Dragan Aleksoski, Deputy Director of the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia. This was reported by the press office of the Migration Service of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed joint measures in the field of migration, the incorporation of international standards into national legislation, and the practical application of migration legislation. They also considered prospects for cooperation on programmes relating to security and sustainable development. Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their readiness to continue working together and to organise joint events to further develop cooperation in the field of international migration.
A Turkmen delegation took part in a scientific forum in Japan
08.10.2026A delegation from the Academy of Sciences and the Oguz Han University of Engineering and Technology of Turkmenistan paid a working visit to Japan. Turkmen specialists took part in the international forum ‘Science and Technology in Society’ (STS) in Kyoto and the 22nd round-table meeting of ministers of science and technology, according to the IIC. During the plenary and thematic sessions, participants discussed the development of artificial intelligence, biotechnology and renewable energy, as well as issues relating to digitalisation, environmental protection and the training of specialists. On 5 October, Allaberdi Ashirov, Head of the Academy of Sciences of Turkmenistan, addressed the meeting of the Presidents of the Academies of Sciences. In his speech, he outlined Turkmenistan’s approaches to the development of scientific research, the introduction of high technologies and support for young scientists. The importance of international academic cooperation was highlighted in particular. During the visit, the Turkmen delegation also held meetings with representatives of Japanese universities and technology companies. The visit will last until 8 October and is aimed at developing scientific and educational cooperation and exchanging expertise.
CIS countries have approved a new plan for cooperation in the field of tourism
08.10.2026At a meeting of the CIS Council of Foreign Ministers held on October 7 in Turkmenistan, an Action Plan for 2027–2028 was approved for the implementation of the Strategy for the Development of Cooperation between CIS Member States in Tourism for 2021–2030, according to Turkmenportal. The document comprises seven sections and sets out measures to improve the legal framework, statistical monitoring and quality standards for tourism services, as well as to ensure the safety of tourists and tourism businesses. Particular attention is paid to the development of accommodation facilities and tourism infrastructure, scientific support for the sector, and the training and professional development of specialists. The plan also provides for support for children’s, youth and social tourism, the expansion of inter-regional tourist routes, the promotion of tourism products and the improvement of information support for the sector. The document brings together long-term projects and programmes, as well as one-off events and organisational and practical measures.
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