Society
Turkmenistan and the DCO discussed the development of digital cooperation
13.11.2026Representatives of the Ministry of Communications of Turkmenistan held online negotiations with the leadership of the Digital Cooperation Organisation (DCO). The parties discussed the development of their partnership, the establishment of a joint working group, attracting investment into the technology sector, support for start-ups and the creation of the ‘Central Asia–Europe’ digital corridor, according to IIC of Turkmenistan. The Digital Cooperation Organisation was established in November 2020. Its headquarters are in Riyadh (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia). The DCO brings together the relevant ministries of communications and information technology from its member states. Deemah Al-Yahya serves as the organisation’s Secretary-General. The DCO’s main areas of activity include reducing the digital divide, developing an inclusive digital economy, strengthening cybersecurity, and expanding technological opportunities for young people and entrepreneurs. Cooperation with the organisation will enable Turkmenistan to learn from international experience in the field of digital transformation. Promising areas include improving e-government, introducing artificial intelligence technologies and supporting innovative entrepreneurship. Following the negotiations, the Turkmen side invited representatives of the DCO to the ‘Turkmentel-2026’ international exhibition. For its part, the organisation intends to extend an invitation to Turkmenistan to attend the DCO Council of Ministers meeting, which is due to take place in March 2027 in Islamabad.
A seminar on the history of Koreans in Turkmenistan was held in Ashgabat
13.11.2026The Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Turkmenistan organised a meeting in Ashgabat dedicated to the history of the Korean community in the country. The seminar was entitled ‘The History of the Korean Settlement in Turkmenistan: Life and Memory’. This was reported by Turkmenportal. The event took place on 11 November in the conference hall of the ‘Sport’ Hotel as part of the ‘Partnership projects with overseas Korean communities’. It was attended by representatives of the Korean diaspora and Lee Won-jae, the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Turkmenistan. During the meeting, participants discussed the history of the formation of the Korean community in Turkmenistan, recalled key stages in its development and shared personal memories, as well as stories from the lives of several generations. The embassy noted that the seminar served as an important platform for preserving historical memory, strengthening ties within the Korean community and passing on its heritage to future generations.
A journalist from Turkmenistan won the Friedrich Schiller competition
12.11.2026Turkmen art historian, publicist and journalist Yulia Dzhumayeva has won the 2026 Friedrich Schiller International Literary Competition, held in Germany. She took first place in the «Short Prose» category. The competition was organized by the International Literary Association «Creative Tribune» (MLATT / ILACT). This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. This year, the creative competition brought together authors from 34 countries. Participants submitted works in Russian, German and English. The entries were evaluated by a jury chaired by Natalie Bisso, head of the German branch of the SPSA and a poet. The selection of winners took into account originality of concept, depth of thematic exploration and level of artistic skill. The main themes of the competition were humanistic values, friendship between peoples and the connection between generations — ideas that occupy an important place in Friedrich Schiller's literary legacy. Yulia Dzhumayeva submitted her short story «The Lonely Stream», dedicated to love and devotion, for the jury's consideration. Through artistic storytelling, the author explores the distinctive features of the Turkmen people's cultural heritage, introducing international audiences to national customs, folklore and traditional musical instruments. The work also reflects the creative legacy of the outstanding poet and thinker Magtymguly Pyragy. According to the competition results, the Turkmen author's work will be included in the MLATT Anthology and published in international literary publications. This award adds to Yulia Dzhumayeva's list of international achievements. In 2024, she became a laureate of the Dmitry Simonov Literary Competition, held in Novosibirsk, and in 2025, she received recognition at the Walt Whitman Competition in Germany.
At the CIS Media Forum, Turkmenistan's role in developing media cooperation was highlighted
12.11.2026A plenary session dedicated to the influence of modern mass media on public processes and the formation of the information agenda was held at the International Multimedia Press Center of the Rossiya Segodnya media group in Moscow as part of the V Media Forum of CIS Countries. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. The discussion was attended by representatives of leading media companies, government agencies and the CIS Executive Committee. Among them were Dmitry Kiselyov, Director General of the Rossiya Segodnya media group, Ekaterina Larina, Director of the Department for the Development of Mass Communications and International Cooperation at Russia's Ministry of Digital Development, Andrey Tsyper, Executive Director for Media at Rambler&Co, Maxim Iksanov, Director General of News Media Holding and Andrey Krivosheev, Head of the Minsk-Novosti agency, who joined via video link. The meeting was moderated by Pyotr Lidov-Petrovsky, Adviser to the Rossiya Segodnya media group. During the session, Svetlana Malinina, Head of the Press Service of the CIS Executive Committee, presented participants with a welcoming address from CIS Secretary General Sergey Lebedev. She also outlined the main areas for developing media cooperation within the framework of the Commonwealth. Particular attention was paid to the implementation of the resolution "On Measures to Promote a Positive Image of the CIS and Its Member States in the Information Space". The document was signed by the heads of state following the October CIS summit, held in the Avaza National Tourist Zone in Turkmenistan. Svetlana Malinina noted the intensification of cooperation among the Commonwealth's relevant organizations. In particular, she highlighted the holding of the latest meeting of the Council of Heads of State and Public Television and Radio Broadcasting Organizations of the CIS Member States in Avaza, as well as the development of the activities of the Information Council of the Commonwealth countries. Alexander Matyash, Director of the Information and Analytical Department of the CIS Executive Committee, also took part in the plenary session. The discussion focused on changes in the work of mass media under the influence of digital technologies, as well as opportunities to expand professional contacts and exchange experience among journalists from the Commonwealth countries. Participants emphasized the importance of ongoing dialogue between media communities for the development of a common information space.
Turkmenistan is participating in the development of a unified CIS media space
12.11.2026As part of the V Media Forum of the Commonwealth of Independent States, held in Moscow, a meeting took place between representatives of diplomatic missions and the CIS Executive Committee. According to the IIC of Turkmenistan, the main topic of discussion was the development of information cooperation between the Commonwealth member states. The talks were attended by Gulyalek Chopanova, Press Attaché of the Embassy of Turkmenistan in the Russian Federation, Irina Akulovich, Minister-Counsellor of the Embassy of the Republic of Belarus in the Russian Federation, Alexander Matyash, Director of the Information and Analytical Department of the CIS Executive Committee, and Svetlana Malinina, Head of the Press Service of the CIS Executive Committee. The participants exchanged views on the current state of information cooperation within the CIS, as well as discussed the specific features of media activities in the member states. A separate focus of the discussion was on opportunities to expand contacts between media representatives and further develop the Commonwealth's common information space.
Turkmenistan outlined its digital cooperation priorities at a forum in Doha
12.11.2026On November 10, Turkmenistan’s Minister of Communications, Hajymyrat Hudaygulyyev, spoke at the 2026 Plenipotentiary Conference of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in Doha. According to the IIC of Turkmenistan, the minister spoke about the country’s achievements in digital transformation and outlined prospects for international cooperation in telecommunications. Hajymyrat Hudaygulyyev noted progress in implementing the Concept for the Development of the Digital Economy since the previous ITU Plenipotentiary Conference, held in 2022. Access to high-speed internet is expanding across the country, fiber-optic networks are being modernized, data centers are being established, fifth-generation mobile communications (5G) are being introduced, and e-government and digital financial services are being improved. Particular attention is being paid to connecting residents of remote regions to networks. Among the key areas highlighted was the use of the national satellite «TürkmenÄlem 52.0°E», which provides communications, television broadcasting and data transmission. Turkmenistan expressed its readiness to share its experience in satellite communications and provide international partners with relevant commercial and infrastructure services. The minister also spoke about the city of Arkadag, built according to the Smart City concept. Environmentally friendly technologies, artificial intelligence and Internet of Things (IoT)-based solutions are used there. The Turkmen side is interested in exchanging international experience in the design, construction and operation of innovative cities. The head of the ministry confirmed support for the draft ITU Strategic Plan for 2028–2031. Ensuring universal connectivity, reducing the digital divide and accelerating sustainable digital transformation were identified as common priorities. Special attention was paid to the region’s transit telecommunications potential. Turkmenistan’s geographical location creates conditions for expanding international digital communications. Projects to lay cross-border fiber-optic communication lines are being implemented in the country. In addition, Turkmenistan expressed its readiness for new partnerships in telecommunications infrastructure, cybersecurity and the introduction of artificial intelligence technologies. Concluding his speech, Hajymyrat Hudaygulyyev emphasized the importance of the ITU in developing international standards, coordinating the use of the radio frequency spectrum and providing technical assistance to developing countries. The minister reaffirmed Turkmenistan’s commitment to the organization’s goals and principles, as well as its readiness to expand cooperation to create a secure, accessible and sustainable digital space.
An agreement between Turkmenistan and UNIDO on HCFCs was signed at COP31
11.11.2026On November 11, on the sidelines of the COP31 climate conference in Antalya, Turkmenistan and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) signed an agreement to implement the third phase of a project aimed at phasing out hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) over the 2026–2030 period. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. The agreement was signed by Ovezgeldy Goshjanov, Minister of Environmental Protection of Turkmenistan, and Alois Mlanga, Director of the Climate Innovation and Montreal Protocol Division at UNIDO. The project aims to further reduce the use of HCFCs, which are widely used in refrigeration and air-conditioning equipment and have harmful effects on the ozone layer. The gradual phase-out of these substances is part of efforts to meet commitments under the Montreal Protocol. The new phase will build on the cooperation between Turkmenistan and UNIDO established through previous projects. Their joint efforts have focused on reducing HCFC consumption, introducing environmentally friendly technologies and strengthening national capacity for the management of ozone-depleting substances. The signing of the agreement reaffirms both parties’ commitment to continued cooperation in environmental protection and the adoption of modern environmental solutions.
Turkmenistan supported the international initiative to protect children from climate change
11.11.2026On November 11 in Antalya (Turkey), as part of the 31st Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP31), the Declaration on Children, Youth and Climate Action was signed. Turkmenistan was represented at the event by Minister of Education Jumamyrat Gurbangeldiyev, reports the IIC of Turkmenistan. The document provides for strengthening international cooperation in protecting children and young people from climate risks. The declaration notes that the younger generation is among the most vulnerable groups in the face of the consequences of climate change, but is also capable of actively participating in developing solutions and implementing environmental initiatives. Turkmenistan's participation in this initiative reflects the country's attention to the educational component of climate policy. The education system is viewed as an important tool for fostering environmental awareness, raising students' awareness of climate change, and cultivating a responsible attitude toward natural resources.
Turkmenistan expands international cooperation in the field of communications
11.11.2026A delegation from Turkmenistan, headed by Minister of Communications Hajymurat Khudaigulyev, held a series of talks on the sidelines of the Plenipotentiary Conference of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), which was held in Doha (Qatar). This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. An important item on the agenda was a trilateral meeting of the ministers of Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan and Iran, during which prospects for cooperation in the transit of communication flows were discussed. Representatives of Turkmenistan also held separate talks with ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin, Head of Qatar's Cybersecurity Agency Abdulrahman bin Ali Al-Farahid Al-Maliki, and Qatar's Minister of Communications and Information Technology Mohammed bin Ali bin Mohammed Al-Mannai. The participants in the meetings focused primarily on opportunities to increase the transit of telecommunications flows, modernize communications infrastructure, and expand partnerships in information and communication technologies, cybersecurity and digital development. The talks were part of Turkmenistan's efforts to strengthen international ties in the telecommunications sector and expand the country's participation in shaping the global digital space.
Turkmen cinema is represented at the 2026 Diamond Butterfly Award
11.11.2026The Russian Cultural Foundation has published the list of films admitted to the 2026 Open Eurasian Film Award, known as the “Diamond Butterfly.” A total of 41 films from 19 countries will compete for the awards. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. Turkmenistan will be represented by two feature films produced by the Oguz Khan Turkmenfilm Studio — “Red Kurte” and “The Tree.” Both films were directed by Sahysalyh Bayramov. The competition brings together filmmakers from Asia, Europe, Africa and Latin America. In addition to Turkmenistan, films have been submitted by Belarus, Venezuela, Vietnam, Egypt, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, China, Cuba, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Pakistan, Russia, Serbia, Tajikistan, Türkiye, Uzbekistan and Ethiopia. Elena Golovnina, Director General of the Russian Cultural Foundation, noted that the broad geographical representation reflects the diversity of national film traditions. According to her, each submitted film introduces audiences to the cultural identity and worldviews of different peoples, while cinema provides an opportunity to explore shared themes and emotions, transcending linguistic and geographical boundaries. The winners will be selected in 12 categories. The main competition includes awards for Best Film, Best Director, Best Screenplay, Best Cinematography and Best Composer. Separate awards will recognize the best performances by leading actors and actresses, as well as supporting roles. The jury will also present awards for Best Production Design, Best Film from a Country Outside the Eurasian Region, and the honorary award for Contribution to World Cinema. The winners of the second Diamond Butterfly Film Award ceremony will be announced on November 12, 2026.
Uzbek Language Day brought students and diplomats together in Ashgabat
10.11.2026On November 9, an event dedicated to Uzbek Language Day was held at the Dovletmammed Azadi Turkmen National Institute of World Languages. It was attended by faculty members and students of the university, as well as diplomats working in Turkmenistan. This was reported by Orient. Opening the festive gathering, the institute's Vice-Rector for Research, Selbi Batyrova, and the Chargé d'Affaires of the Republic of Uzbekistan in Turkmenistan, Jasur Ashurov, delivered welcoming speeches. The main part of the program consisted of creative performances introducing guests to Uzbek culture and literary heritage. Participants presented a literary and musical composition entitled «Turkmen-Uzbek Friendship – Continuity of Native Languages», spoke about the history of the holiday, recited works by classical authors, and performed national dances. In particular, the audience was treated to the Uzbek dance «Lazgi», as well as the Turkmen dance performances «Tanschy gyz» and «Kushtdepdi». A separate item on the program was the award ceremony for the authors of the best entries in a student essay competition on the topic «Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan: Historical Roots, Common Future». The event concluded with a joint performance of the song «Goý, ýaňlansyn türkmen-özbek aýdymy» («Let the Turkmen-Uzbek Song Resound»), which provided a musical finale to the celebration of friendship and cultural interaction between the two peoples.
The delegation studied the British experience in protecting children's rights
10.11.2026From 2 to 6 November 2026, a delegation from Turkmenistan visited the United Kingdom to learn about British practices in child protection, family support and the development of alternative forms of family-based care. According to the IIC Turkmenistan, the visit was organised by UNICEF in cooperation with the Partnership for Every Child Alliance. The delegation included representatives of the Prosecutor General’s Office, the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of the Population, the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Turkmenistan, Magtymguly Turkmen State University and Seyitnazar Seydi Turkmen State Pedagogical Institute. In London, the delegation met with representatives of the UK Department for Education, who provided an overview of England’s child protection system, early intervention measures for families and ongoing social care reforms. The participants also visited the UK Parliament and met with a Member of the House of Commons. Particular attention was given to supporting young people leaving alternative care. At the Care Leavers Hub in the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham, the delegation learned about programmes designed to help young people access housing, education and employment, as well as adapt to independent living. In Cornwall, the Turkmen delegation visited the Dracaena Centre and met with representatives of the local council. The discussions focused on the work of social services, cooperation between government and civil society organisations, and measures to prevent the unnecessary placement of children in residential care institutions. The programme also included visits to community initiatives in Torpoint and an exchange of experience with the University of Plymouth. A representative of the Prosecutor General’s Office of Turkmenistan noted that the practices studied could help strengthen the national child protection system, expand family support services and improve cooperation among relevant government agencies. The visit took place within the framework of cooperation between the Government of Turkmenistan and UNICEF. The experience gained could be applied in implementing the National Action Plan on the Rights of the Child for 2023–2028 and developing the National Programme on Child Protection and Child Justice. Serdar Bazarov, UNICEF Child Protection Officer in Turkmenistan, emphasised the importance of providing timely assistance to families and ensuring coordinated efforts among relevant services. He also reaffirmed UNICEF’s readiness to provide technical support to its Turkmen partners in studying and adapting international practices in line with national priorities. UNICEF expressed its gratitude to the Government of Turkmenistan for supporting the delegation’s participation, to the British side and host organisations for sharing their experience, and to the British Embassy in Turkmenistan for its assistance in organising the visit.
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