Society
Turkmen students took part in a youth festival in Beijing
15.05.2026On May 14 in Beijing, the opening ceremony of the 22nd International Youth Cultural Festival was held at Chengxin Square of the University of International Business and Economics (UIBE) under the motto “Lead the Tide, Embrace the World.” Turkmen students studying at the university, with the support of the Embassy of Turkmenistan in the PRC, took part in the event and presented their national culture, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. As part of the festival, a national pavilion of Turkmenistan was organized and prepared by Turkmen students. The exhibition showcased the country’s culture and traditions and became part of the international student platform. The pavilion was visited by diplomats, representatives of various organizations, and international students. The program also included artistic performances. Students presented traditional dances and showcased elements of Turkmen culture and national cuisine. Separately, it was noted that Turkmen students participated on the eve of the festival in the Symposium on High-Quality Development of Higher Energy Education within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative, held at China University of Petroleum. Participation in these events formed part of Turkmenistan’s international student engagement and is aimed at strengthening humanitarian ties and promoting intercultural exchange.
Turkmenistan strengthens maritime transport with the launch of “Gadamly”
14.05.2026On May 12, a ceremony was held at the Baku International Sea Port to welcome the cargo vessel “Gadamly” — the first ship of its class built in Turkmenistan, according to the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The event was attended by the Ambassador of Turkmenistan to the Republic of Azerbaijan, G. Elyasov, representatives of transport and logistics organizations of both countries, and heads of relevant government agencies. It was noted that the commissioning of the vessel reflects the development of Turkmenistan’s shipbuilding industry and the growth of its industrial capacity. The project’s role in strengthening trade and economic ties in the Caspian region was also emphasized. Representatives of Baku International Sea Port LLC and Azerbaijan Railways CJSC highlighted the importance of expanding cooperation in the transport sector. The role of the Caspian region in the system of international East–West transport routes was also underlined. Participants expressed confidence that the operation of the cargo vessel “Gadamly” will contribute to the development of maritime transport and further cooperation between Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan.
Turkmenistan is advancing the infrastructure agenda of the LLDCs
14.05.2026The Permanent Representative of Turkmenistan to the United Nations, Vepa Hajiyev, took part in a meeting of the group of landlocked developing countries (LLDCs) dedicated to the implementation of the Awaza Programme of Action. This was reported by the IIC. Participants discussed measures to develop transport connectivity, finance infrastructure, facilitate trade, and strengthen partnerships among LLDC member states. Turkmenistan, serving as co-chair of the Group of Friends of LLDCs, reaffirmed its support for the implementation of the programme and announced a planned meeting of national coordinators in Ashgabat on June 30 – July 2, 2026, in cooperation with the United Nations Office of the High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States (UN-OHRLLS).
South Korea is considering participation in projects to modernize Turkmenistan’s infrastructure
13.05.2026South Korean companies are exploring participation in the modernization of the Karakum Canal in Turkmenistan, according to the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Turkmenistan, Lee Won-jae, as reported by the online publication “Business Turkmenistan”. He said that South Korean businesses are also showing interest in upgrading railway infrastructure and establishing production facilities for fiber-optic cables and steel pipes in the country. Seoul aims to expand cooperation with Turkmenistan across several sectors, including energy, transport, IT, shipbuilding, healthcare, and culture. Promising areas include hydrogen-powered public transport, electric vehicle infrastructure, and autonomous driving technologies. In shipbuilding, the company Koryo Shipbuilding Industry Technology is already working with Turkmenistan’s Balkan plant on a project to build cargo ships, with potential expansion into railway ferries. Separately, the phosphorous fertilizer plant project in Turkmenabat, implemented by Daewoo Engineering & Construction, was highlighted as a foundation for further development of bilateral industrial cooperation.
An evening was held in Ashgabat to mark the 30th anniversary of the partnership between Turkmenistan and Petronas
13.05.2026A gala evening dedicated to the long-standing cooperation between Turkmenistan and the Malaysian energy company “Petronas” was held in Ashgabat. This was reported by the Orient news agency. The event brought together representatives of the government, the diplomatic corps, and the oil and gas industry, becoming a symbol of partnership and professional collaboration. The meeting was attended by Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan Guvanch Agadjanov and the leadership of the country’s oil and gas sector, as well as senior management of “Petronas,” including Group CEO Tan Sri Tengku Muhammad Taufik and representatives of the exploration and production division. During the event, the parties noted that over 30 years of cooperation, “Petronas” has become one of the key investors in the Caspian region, having invested about $11.7 billion in the economy of Turkmenistan. Special emphasis was placed on the transition of the partnership to a new stage — the introduction of innovative and environmentally friendly technologies. Significant attention was also given to the humanitarian aspect: more than 300 Turkmen students have studied at the Petronas University of Technology, contributing to the development of the national energy sector. A key outcome of the visit was the signing of a protocol on new terms for the development of licensed blocks 19 and 20 on the Caspian Sea shelf, confirming the further expansion of cooperation. The delegation also plans to visit Kiyanly to acknowledge the contribution of employees at production facilities to the overall success of the partnership.
“Çalık Enerji” becomes general partner of the “White City Ashgabat 2026” exhibition
13.05.2026The organizing committee of the 25th International Exhibition and Conference “White City Ashgabat 2026” has announced “Çalık Enerji” as the general partner of the event, which will take place in Ashgabat on May 24–25. This was reported by the IIC. The partnership reflects the growing importance of the forum as a regional platform for discussing infrastructure development, energy, and sustainable urban planning. “Çalık Enerji,” an international energy and infrastructure company that has implemented projects in a number of countries, is actively involved in the modernization of Turkmenistan’s energy system and the development of modern energy solutions. The conference is expected to bring together more than 400 participants from 40 countries, including representatives of government agencies, businesses, and international organizations, and will serve as a platform for discussing investment and technological projects in the fields of industry and urban development.
Turkmenistan and Cambodia are considering new tourist routes
12.05.2026Turkmenistan and Cambodia have discussed the possibility of launching direct flights between Ashgabat and major tourist destinations in Cambodia. This was reported by “Business Turkmenistan”. The issue was reviewed during a meeting between the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Akhmet Gurbanoв, and the Minister of Tourism of Cambodia, Huot Hak, in Phnom Penh. The sides examined potential routes including Ashgabat–Phnom Penh and Ashgabat–Siem Reap. Separately, the parties discussed expanding cooperation in the tourism sector. This included organizing familiarization trips for investors, media representatives, and tourism companies, as well as promoting the tourism potential of both countries. They also considered accelerating the preparation and signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the relevant agencies. Akhmet Gurbanov confirmed Turkmenistan’s interest in strengthening cooperation with Cambodia. He highlighted the country’s cultural and historical sites, which are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, as well as the potential for medical tourism. As part of the visit of the Turkmen delegation, meetings were held in Phnom Penh on May 8–9 with representatives of the Cambodian government and business community, including talks with the Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ith Sophhea, and the President of the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce, Kith Meng.
The Uzbek jockey was awarded a prize by the President of Turkmenistan
11.05.2026Winners of equestrian competitions held on 9–10 May in the Tashkent region of Uzbekistan, H. Khamitov, a representative of the “Uzbegim otlari” horse farm, and jockey Z. Kulmatov, received the keys to a modern car as a prize from the President of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. Previously, jockey P. Orazov and horse breeder K. Agamyradov of Turkmenistan were also awarded a car as a prize from the President of Uzbekistan. The participants expressed gratitude to the leaders of both countries for their support and their contribution to strengthening friendship, developing cultural and humanitarian cooperation, and fostering collaboration among specialized professionals. The recognition of Akhal-Teke horses as Asian champions became a significant event, strengthening bilateral relations and enhancing the international prestige of the breed as a symbol of friendship between peoples.
Turkmen and Uzbek riders competed in the event
11.05.2026On May 9–10, equestrian competitions and the beauty contest “Pearl of the East” were held in the Tashkent region of Uzbekistan. Akhal-Teke horses from Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan took part in the events. This was reported by TDH. On the first day, horse races took place. The competitions were observed by specialists from various countries, cultural figures, as well as local residents and guests, including young people and Turkmen students. As part of the event, an exhibition of the cultural heritage of Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan was organized. Particular attention was drawn to decorative and applied arts and jewelry pieces dedicated to Akhal-Teke horses. Winners were determined in several races. Among two-year-old horses, first place went to a mare named Pula from Uzbekistan. Second and third places were taken by representatives of the Akhal-Teke Equestrian Complex of the President of Turkmenistan. In the races for adult horses over a distance of 1,600 meters, victories were shared between participants from Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. In one of the races, the horse Dovamat from Turkmenistan took first place. The competitions were accompanied by musical performances by artists from both countries. Winners were awarded cups, diplomas, and valuable prizes, including cars. Participants expressed gratitude for the organization of the events and noted their importance for the development of cooperation in horse breeding and cultural ties. It was noted that holding such competitions contributes to strengthening Turkmen-Uzbek cooperation and promoting Akhal-Teke horses at the international level.
The international beauty contest brought together the best Akhal-Teke horses
11.05.2026On May 10, in Uzbekistan, as part of the international competition “Pearl of the East,” the World Championship of Akhal-Teke horse beauty took place. Horses from Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Russia, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan participated. This was reported by TDH. The competition is being held for the 22nd time and includes contests among horses of different age categories — from one-year-old foals to adult stallions and mares. The event aims to develop horse breeding and promote international exchange of experience. During the final presentations, representatives of different countries and bloodlines of the Akhal-Teke breed were showcased. Participants were evaluated within their respective age groups. In the category of two-year-old horses, the world champion title was awarded to the stallion Meledag from the International Akhal-Teke Equestrian Complex. The winner received the titles “World Champion” and “Pearl of the East.” In other age categories, prize places were distributed among representatives of Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan. In separate nominations, the horses Zamin-Khon, Gyunes, Melikush-Khon, and Aygytly took first place. The absolute champion among stallions was Aygytly from the Akhal-Teke Equestrian Complex of the President of Turkmenistan. He was awarded the main prize and competition honors. Among mares, the absolute first place was taken by a horse from Uzbekistan. Winners received cups, honorary certificates, and cars. Participants expressed gratitude to the organizers and noted the importance of the competition for the development of cooperation in the field of horse breeding. It was emphasized that such events contribute to strengthening cultural and sporting ties between countries of the region and promoting Akhal-Teke horses internationally.
Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan held talks on horse breeding
11.05.2026Meetings of heads of government agencies for horse breeding and circus arts from Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, as well as relevant educational and research institutions, were held in Tashkent. The talks took place within the framework of international events dedicated to Akhal-Teke horses, TDH reports. The Uzbek side welcomed the Turkmen delegation and noted its interest in high-level international events taking place in Tashkent. It was emphasized that the slogan of the year, “Independent Neutral Turkmenistan – the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses,” has received wide international resonance and contributes to the exchange of experience in horse breeding. The Turkmen delegation expressed gratitude for the reception. It was noted that preparations are underway for events marking the 35th anniversary of the country’s independence, aimed at promoting Akhal-Teke horses. The Uzbek side was invited to participate in upcoming international events to be held in Turkmenistan. During the meetings, prospects for cooperation in the horse breeding sector were discussed. Interest was expressed in Turkmenistan’s experience, as well as in its scientific, educational, and production base. The importance of the established infrastructure for the development of horse breeding, equestrian sports, and circus arts was highlighted. The parties discussed joint projects and the exchange of experience in breeding Akhal-Teke horses. Readiness was expressed to hold such meetings and events on a regular basis.
The Turkmen delegation took part in a forum on Akhal-Teke horses
11.05.2026International events dedicated to Akhal-Teke horses were held in Tashkent. These included equestrian competitions, the “Pearl of the East” beauty contest, and the scientific-practical conference “The Akhal-Teke Horse – a Symbol of Friendship Among Peoples.” This was reported by the state news agency TDH. A delegation from Turkmenistan took part in the events. It included specialists from the horse breeding sector, as well as representatives of culture and the media. The main purpose of the visit was participation in the competitions, the contest, and the conference. On May 8, an international conference was held at the “Yangi Toshkent Conference Hall” center. An exhibition of Turkmen decorative and applied arts was also organized in the foyer. The forum was attended by representatives of relevant agencies from Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, scientists, horse breeders, and diplomats. Turkmen students and compatriots living in Uzbekistan were also present. During the conference, the significance of the Akhal-Teke breed was highlighted as one of the oldest in the world. Its role in the development of other horse breeds and in preserving the region’s cultural heritage was emphasized. Participants discussed issues related to the development of horse breeding, maintaining breed purity, and introducing modern methods into the industry. Special attention was given to international cooperation and the exchange of experience. It was noted that Turkmenistan continues its work on developing horse breeding and equestrian sports, implementing projects to train specialists, modernize infrastructure, and promote national heritage. It was emphasized that holding such events contributes to strengthening humanitarian ties and expanding cooperation between countries.
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