Society
Turkmen students win prizes at snow sculpture competition in Harbin
08.01.2026Turkmen students from Harbin Engineering University won prizes at the 18th International Collegiate Snow Sculpture Contest, which took place in 2026 in Harbin (PRC). The team took second place with their entry, ‘Pride of Turkmenistan,’ representing the country's national culture and artistic traditions on an international level. This was reported by IIC. The sculpture was created by Serdarov Didar, Rejepov Ilmyrat, Jorayev Yusupjan, and Amanov Bagtyyar. The central image of the composition was an Ahal-Teke horse, one of the key symbols of Turkmenistan. Made of snow and ice, the work was distinguished by its expressive plasticity, dynamics and accurate conveyance of the strength and nobility of the legendary horse breed. The achievement was given additional symbolism by the fact that the competition was held in the Year of the Horse, whose motto reflects the ideas of fidelity to traditions, spiritual stability and harmony. It is these qualities, according to the authors' concept, that are embodied by the Ahal-Teke horse, which became the artistic and semantic centre of the sculpture. The Turkmen team's second place was marked with a certificate presented by the Harbin Ice and Snow Festival Organizing Committee with the support of the National Institute of Industrial Design in China. The award confirmed the high level of professional training and creative approach of the young authors. The performance of Turkmen students in Harbin contributed to the promotion of Turkmenistan's cultural image abroad, demonstrating the possibilities of a modern artistic interpretation of national heritage on an international stage.
Turkmenistan discusses new National Forest Programme until 2030
07.01.2026A round table discussion on the draft National Forest Programme of Turkmenistan for 2026–2030 was held in Ashgabat, organised by the Ministry of Environmental Protection in conjunction with UNDP and the Aral Project. Scientists, members of the Mejlis and relevant experts took part in the discussion, according to IIC. The project, which is the third stage of the national greening strategy, includes 13 sections and a specific action plan. It places greater emphasis on the restoration of natural forests and, for the first time, provides for state forest management to create a forest cadastre. The programme also provides for public-private partnership mechanisms, measures to combat desertification and adapt to climate change, and the introduction of GIS, satellite monitoring and AI. The prospects for the development of ecotourism, job creation and the country's participation in international carbon credit markets are highlighted separately.
Turkmenistan and China pool expertise in protecting desert routes
05.01.2026Turkmen and Chinese scientists have strengthened cooperation in the study of desert areas as part of the ‘Belt and Road Initiative’. This was reported by the online publication ‘Business Turkmenistan’. The National Institute of Deserts, Flora and Fauna of Turkmenistan and the Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography of the Chinese Academy of Sciences are focusing on China's experience in protecting transport infrastructure in extreme climatic conditions. Particular attention is paid to the motorway through the Taklamakan Desert, which is over 560 km long and protected by an artificial forest belt covering an area of over 3,000 hectares. The ecosystem of 20 million drought-resistant plants prevents sand drift and is supported by electrified wells with mineralised water. The project is recognised by the international community and contributes to the restoration of biodiversity and the application of technologies for growing cistanche on saxaul. The similarity of desert conditions with the Karakum Desert makes the exchange of experience particularly useful for Turkmenistan, which sees cooperation as a contribution to the development of sustainable ecosystems and the creation of a UN Regional Centre for Climate Technology in Ashgabat.
Turkmenistan's capital discusses motto for 2026
05.01.2026A solemn event dedicated to the motto of 2026, ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses,’ was held at the Centre for Public Organisations in Ashgabat. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal with reference to the newspaper ‘Neutral Turkmenistan.’ It is noted that the image of the ‘winged horse’ symbolises the country’s striving for new achievements and is associated with the Year of the Horse in the Eastern calendar, as well as the special role of Ahal-Teke horses in national culture. Within the framework of the event, an exhibition of decorative and applied arts with samples of horse equipment and jewellery was held, emphasising the continuity of traditions and the country's modern development. Participants also highlighted the social orientation of state policy in the areas of improving living standards, science and education.
The Cultural Centre of the Iranian Embassy in Ashgabat hosted a celebration of Father's Day
05.01.2026A solemn event dedicated to Father's Day was held at the Cultural Centre of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Ashgabat. The event was attended by the Iranian Ambassador to Turkmenistan, Ali Mojtaba Rouzbahani, students and teachers of the centre, residents of the capital, representatives of the public and the media, according to the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. Father's Day is a national holiday in Iran and is timed to coincide with the birthday of Hazrat Ali. It is celebrated as a day of respect for the head of the family. During the event, it was emphasised that the peoples of Iran and Turkmenistan are linked by common historical roots and similar values, including respect for parents, generational continuity and the preservation of family traditions. The festive programme included poetry readings, humorous skits and songs in Farsi, Turkmen, Russian and English. Ambassador Ali Mojtaba Rouzbahani thanked the Cultural Centre of the Iranian Embassy for organising the event and noted the spiritual significance of the holiday. Abdollah Abbasi, Cultural Advisor to the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran, emphasised that in Turkmenistan's culture, the role of the father also occupies an important place and is based on national traditions of respect for parents and the older generation.
Turkmenistan to participate in Caspian Region Transport Forum
05.01.2026On 15–16 April 2026, Astrakhan will host the 5th International Forum ‘Transport Logistics of the Caspian Region 2025.’ The agenda includes the development of the ‘North–South’ corridor and coordination of actions between the Caspian countries, including Turkmenistan. This was reported by Orient. Special attention will be paid to issues of cross-border cooperation, simplification of document flow and settlements with Central Asian countries, as well as increasing the throughput capacity of ports and the railway network. Participation in the forum is of practical importance for Turkmenistan. The country is developing the capacity of the Turkmenbashi International Sea Port and land routes within the ‘North-South’ corridor. Discussions with Caspian partners will allow for the synchronisation of logistics solutions and the strengthening of transit potential. The forum programme consists of two stages. Business visits to logistics facilities in the Astrakhan region are scheduled for 15 April. A plenary session with representatives of ports, shipping companies, railway operators and investors will be held on 16 April.
Ashgabat to host international textile industry exhibition
04.01.2026From 4 to 6 June, Ashgabat will host the international exhibition ‘TurkmenTextile Expo-2026’. The event is organised by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the press service of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan. The exhibition will cover a wide range of areas, including textile equipment, natural fibre processing, clothing and footwear manufacturing, home textiles, spare parts and auxiliary materials. Chemicals and dyes, accessories, fittings and the latest technologies, including industry know-how, will also be presented. The exhibition will serve as a platform for demonstrating the potential of Turkmenistan's textile industry and strengthening international cooperation. Participants and guests will be able to learn about innovative developments, establish business contacts and discuss prospects for joint projects and further cooperation in the industry.
Turkmenistan approves new procedure for registering refugees
04.01.2026The State Migration Service of Turkmenistan has approved an updated procedure for registering and recording persons who have applied for refugee status or subsidiary protection, as well as those who have already been granted such status. This was reported by IIC. According to the new requirements, foreign citizens entering the country with the specified status are required to undergo migration registration within three working days of crossing the border. Registration is carried out at the place of permanent or temporary residence, subject to the availability of supporting documents. The document also provides for the introduction of a state information system for migration registration. The system will collect and store personal and biometric data, including photographs and fingerprints. A separate set of rules concerns the obligations of the host party — hotels, medical institutions and other organisations. They are required to inform the migration authorities of the arrival and departure of foreign citizens no later than within 24 hours. For cases of mass arrival of persons in emergency situations, a simplified mechanism for registration at temporary accommodation points has been established, followed by migration registration for a period of up to three months. It is noted that the new procedure has been developed in accordance with the Law of Turkmenistan ‘On Refugees’ and is aimed at improving the efficiency of the migration control and registration system.
Turkmenistan discussed the development of livestock farming within the framework of the LEAP programme
03.01.2026Online seminars on the LEAP (Partnership for Livestock Environmental Assessment and Performance) programme, implemented by the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), were held for teachers and students of the Veterinary Faculty of the S.A. Niyazov Turkmen Agricultural University. This was reported by IIC. The events were devoted to assessing the environmental impact of livestock farming and finding sustainable solutions that take into account national characteristics. The training ended with a face-to-face meeting with international experts, supported by the Ministry of Agriculture of Turkmenistan. Participants noted the active implementation of the LEAP initiative in Central Asia and its focus on sustainable land use and ecosystem services in livestock farming — from food production and breed conservation to organic waste processing. Issues of veterinary safety, vaccination, pasture restoration and the need for integrated natural resource management were also discussed.
New Year celebrations were held in the city of Arkadag
02.01.2026Celebrations were held in the city of Arkadag to mark the New Year, held under the slogan ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’. The festive events organised in the city took place in an atmosphere of celebration and spiritual uplift, according to TDH. The main celebrations began on the first day of the new year with a ceremony to raise the National Flag in the central square of Arkadag, built in accordance with the ‘smart’ city concept. The ceremony marked the symbolic start of the festive programme. Residents and guests of the city took part in the events. The release of colourful balloons, concert performances and musical performances created a festive atmosphere. The celebrations continued with a solemn procession through the streets of the city, which were decorated for the holiday. The festive programme covered various venues in the city and was accompanied by performances by cultural and artistic figures, as well as young artists. One of the central events was the event at the main New Year tree. It was attended by New Year characters Ayaz Baba and Garpamyk, who joined the concert programme together with the children. The children sang songs and read poems dedicated to the New Year. Ayaz Baba congratulated the participants of the holiday on the arrival of the New Year, which is being celebrated under the announced motto. The festive events continued at the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Children's Health and Rehabilitation Centre in the city of Arkadag. Children undergoing treatment at the centre were presented with New Year's gifts on behalf of the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, and the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. As part of the celebration, the children were given sweets, school supplies, interactive tools and musical instruments. The event was accompanied by a concert programme.
The children of ‘Döwletliler köşgi’ received New Year gifts
02.01.2026A New Year's celebration was held at the ‘Döwletliler köşgi’ Palace, during which its children were presented with holiday gifts on behalf of the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, and the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. This was reported by the state news agency AsmanNews. The festive programme took place in the children's town near the main New Year tree. Ayaz Baba, Garpamyk, the symbol of 2026 — the Horse, as well as representatives of state bodies and public organisations congratulated the children of the ‘Döwletliler köşgi’ Palace on the New Year. The young participants prepared a concert programme, demonstrating their vocal, choreographic and artistic abilities. Many elements of the festive decorations were made by the children themselves. The event ended with a dance around the Christmas tree with the participation of fairy-tale characters. The children were presented with New Year's gifts, including sweets, fruit, school supplies, interactive tools, and musical instruments.
Turkmenistan welcomed the New Year 2026 with large-scale celebrations
01.01.2026The people of Turkmenistan welcomed the New Year, 2026, with festive events across the country. The celebrations took place in the capital and regions, with the ‘Älem’ Cultural and Entertainment Centre in Ashgabat serving as the central venue, according to TDH. New Year's trees were installed in places of mass celebrations, and concert programmes were held with the participation of pop artists, creative groups and theatres. Festive events also took place at the building of the State Circus of Turkmenistan. The new year, 2026, will mark the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan's independence. The motto for the coming year, ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses,’ reflects the priorities for further strengthening the country's statehood and international authority. The main New Year celebrations took place at the country's main New Year tree in front of the ‘Älem’ Cultural and Entertainment Centre. Festive decorations, music and dance performances created a festive atmosphere. The concert programme featured national music and New Year compositions. Residents of the country's regions joined the festive events in Ashgabat via a teleconference. Through video links with the administrative centres of the five velayats and the city of Arkadag, representatives of the older generation, regional leaders, young people and labour collectives sent New Year's greetings to the country's leadership and the people of Turkmenistan. The celebrations culminated in a New Year's address by the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, to his compatriots. At the stroke of midnight, the National Anthem of Turkmenistan was played. The sky over Ashgabat was lit up by festive fireworks, marking the arrival of the New Year, 2026.
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