Society
Turkmenistan took part in an OSCE meeting on human rights
03.07.2026From 29 to 30 June 2026, a representative of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan took part in the Supplementary Meeting on the Human Dimension of the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe, which was held in Vienna (Republic of Austria). This was reported by the press service of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan. During the event, participants discussed issues relating to the protection of human rights and freedoms, the improvement of the judicial and legal system, and the provision of legal safeguards for individuals in accordance with international standards. The importance of incorporating the provisions of United Nations conventions into national legislation, as well as exchanging experience in this field, was highlighted. It was emphasised that human rights and dignity form the basis of sustainable development and a just society, and also contribute to strengthening international and regional cooperation. The meeting continued in breakout sessions. Discussions centred on the transparency and fairness of investigative and judicial procedures, the development of dialogue with international organisations, and improving the effectiveness of human rights training programmes for law enforcement and judicial officials. As a result, further areas for cooperation were identified, taking into account the proposals and experience of international bodies.
A new UN Resident Coordinator has been appointed in Turkmenistan
03.07.2026UN Secretary-General António Guterres has appointed Xiaojun Grace Wang as the UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan. She took up her post on 1 July, according to the IIC of Turkmenistan. Xiaojun Grace Wang has 28 years’ experience in the field of international development. She has held senior positions, specialising in sustainable development, multilateral cooperation and resource mobilisation for global initiatives. Prior to her appointment, she headed a trust fund at the UN Office for South-South Cooperation, where she was responsible for programmes supporting sustainable development. She has also worked for research organisations, foundations and media organisations in countries across Asia and Europe. Her experience is expected to help strengthen cooperation between the UN and Turkmenistan in the field of sustainable development.
China has opened a new rail freight route to Turkmenistan
03.07.2026China has opened a new direct rail freight route from Xining (Qinghai Province) to the Balkan velayat in Turkmenistan. This was reported by the online publication ‘Business Turkmenistan’. The first train, carrying 55 containers loaded with electrical goods, car parts, clothing and everyday consumer goods, has already set off. The route passes through the Khorgos border crossing and across Kazakhstan, with delivery taking around 14–15 days. The new line will provide a direct rail link between Qinghai Province and Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan, which is expected to reduce logistics costs and strengthen trade ties with Central Asia.
Ashgabat hosts seminar for media representatives
02.07.2026A seminar was held at the UN building in Ashgabat for media representatives, content creators and staff of government press services, focusing on the coverage of disability issues in accordance with the principles of the UN Convention. This was reported by the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden Age’. Ksenia Siminchuk from the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights in Moldova served as an expert at the seminar. She shared her experience of applying a human rights-based approach and emphasised the principle of ‘Nothing about us without us’, which provides for the participation of people with disabilities in the development of decisions affecting their interests. Participants discussed the importance of appropriate terminology in the media, issues of inclusive communication, the information needs of people with disabilities, and communication ethics. A UNICEF publication was also presented: a guide to communication in the field of mental health and a glossary of professional terminology for journalists and content creators. The practical part included an online ‘Living Book’ session, during which Viktor Izbash, project coordinator for inclusive education, and activist Diana Jalbă spoke about the media’s influence on perceptions of people with disabilities. The organisers noted that the use of inclusive communication principles and professional terminology helps foster a respectful attitude towards people with disabilities.
Turkmenistan is represented at the World Congress Against the Death Penalty in Paris
02.07.2026A delegation from Turkmenistan, led by Ombudsman Yazdursun Gurbannazarova, is taking part in the 9th World Congress Against the Death Penalty, organised by the French association ‘Together Against the Death Penalty’ with the support of the French Government, the EU, the Council of Europe and international partners. The event is taking place from 30 June to 2 July in Paris, according to the press office of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The delegation also includes Hallygul Tuvakova, a representative of the Turkmen Institute of State, Law and Democracy, and M. Charyev, Turkmenistan’s Ambassador to France. The forum’s programme includes opening and closing ceremonies, plenary sessions, round-table discussions, working meetings, bilateral negotiations and the presentation of international awards. At the opening ceremony, French President Emmanuel Macron welcomed the heads of delegations and specifically thanked the representatives of Turkmenistan for their participation. During the plenary sessions, Turkmenistan’s consistent policy on the protection of the right to life was noted. It was emphasised that the country had completely abolished the death penalty on 28 December 1999, following the introduction of a moratorium in January of that year, becoming the first country in Central Asia to take such a decision.
Turkmenistan is developing horse breeding and preserving the traditions of the Ahal-Teke breed
01.07.2026Ahal-Teke racehorses have remained a symbol of the Turkmen people for centuries and are today regarded as one of the hallmarks of the country’s development. Efforts are underway in Turkmenistan to preserve and promote the breed, as well as to increase its population, according to the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden Age’. In the year marking the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s independence, a programme of events dedicated to horse breeding and equestrian sports is being implemented. At the start of the year, an Organising Committee was established to oversee horse breeding and equestrian events in 2026, and its membership was approved. A significant development was the international success of the ‘Galkynysh’ National Equestrian Games Group. In January, at a festival in Monte Carlo, the troupe received certificates from the World Circus Federation and the European Circus Association. In February, they toured the regions of Turkmenistan, and in March they performed in Baku. In May, the Turkmen riders took part in competitions in Tashkent, where they were awarded the titles of ‘Asian Champion’ and ‘World Champion’. They also secured prize-winning places at international horse races in Kazan and took part in competitions near Windsor Castle in the UK. The troupe received further awards at the 8th International Festival of Ethnosport and Culture in Istanbul. The performances of ‘Galkynysh’ and the successes of Turkmen riders on the international stage help to promote national horse-breeding traditions and strengthen cultural ties. Ahal-Teke horses are regarded as an important element of cultural diplomacy and a symbol of Turkmenistan’s international representation.
Turkmenistan and Iran are expanding their cooperation in the fields of media and cultural exchange
01.07.2026A meeting took place in Ashgabat between Annasahet Kakayev, Chairman of the State Committee of Turkmenistan for Television, Radio Broadcasting and Cinematography, and Ali Mojtaba Rouzbahani, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Turkmenistan. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the development of cooperation in the fields of television, radio and cinema, as well as the expansion of cultural exchanges and joint projects. The negotiations took place on the basis of the existing memorandum between the relevant Turkmen ministry and the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), which established a regular exchange of informational, educational and scientific-technical content. Particular attention was paid to the prospect of co-producing films and television programmes reflecting the cultural heritage of both countries. The meeting reaffirmed Ashgabat and Tehran’s commitment to further deepening media cooperation and strengthening humanitarian ties.
Turkmenistan and Austria are strengthening their cultural ties
01.07.2026On 30 June, a meeting took place at the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan between M.Byashimova, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan, and N.Berger, Head of the Austrian-Turkmen Society, according to the press office of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The parties noted the contribution of the Austrian-Turkmen Society to the development of cultural dialogue, mutual understanding and humanitarian cooperation between the two countries. Particular attention was paid to joint cultural initiatives, including the organisation of the Vienna Ball, which help to further strengthen the friendly ties between the peoples of Turkmenistan and Austria.
Issues relating to water cooperation and resource management were discussed in Ashgabat
01.07.2026An inter-agency meeting was held in Ashgabat in a hybrid format to mark the 30th anniversary of the entry into force of the UNECE Convention on Transboundary Watercourses and International Lakes. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. Originally a regional legal instrument, it has since taken on global significance and is applied in Central Asia in conjunction with the work of the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea (IFAS), the UN Special Programme for the Economies of Central Asia (SPECA) and bilateral water agreements. The discussion was attended by experts from relevant departments responsible for water supply, irrigation, wastewater treatment, the protection of aquatic ecosystems and the operation of hydraulic structures. A key topic was the coordination of a cross-sectoral approach to integrated water resources management in Turkmenistan. Separate consideration was given to issues relating to the development of irrigation, improving the efficiency of water use and the introduction of modern technologies in water management. Participants also discussed regional cooperation, the digitalisation of the water sector and measures to adapt to climate change. Representatives of the UNECE emphasised the importance of continuing the dialogue and improving the legal and technical mechanisms for water resources management.
A forum entitled ‘Arkadag şäheri – röwşen geljegiň aýdyň ýoly’ was held in Turkmenistan
01.07.2026On 29 June, the Arkadag City District Administration hosted a ceremonial forum entitled ‘Arkadag şäheri – röwşen geljegiň aýdyň ýoly’, marking the third anniversary of the opening of the ‘smart’ city. This was reported by the news agency TDH. The event was attended by representatives of the State Committee for the Construction of Arkadag City under the President of Turkmenistan, staff from the city administration, local enterprises and institutions, as well as honoured elders and mothers. Before the forum began, participants viewed an exhibition in the foyer of the city administration building. It showcased products and innovations from various sectors. Particular attention was drawn to the displays showcasing the city’s international awards in the fields of urban development and innovation. The conference began with the reading of an address by President Serdar Berdimuhamedov to the residents of Arkadag. The message emphasised the significance of the city’s third anniversary for the country’s political, social and cultural life. Forum participants congratulated the President of Turkmenistan and the National Leader of the Turkmen people on the anniversary of the city of Arkadag. The city’s significance as the first ‘smart’ city in the country and the region was highlighted. Wishes for good health and success were expressed to the country’s leadership, along with confidence in the project’s further development. Separately, it was reported that grain farmers in the Ahal velayat had fulfilled their contractual obligations and harvested the wheat crop. Arkadag is presented as a modern ‘smart’ city incorporating digital, information and communication, and ‘green’ technologies. Its architecture combines national traditions with modern urban planning solutions, and its infrastructure meets international standards. According to the Arkadag City Development Concept for 2024–2052, construction of the second phase of projects is continuing, including a children’s park, a mosque and other facilities. It is noted that the mosque currently under construction has been named ‘Arkadagyň ruhy metjidi’ on the initiative of the public and community elders. The city is developing as a centre for charitable activities, including as part of the events marking the anniversary of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation. As part of the first phase of construction, 336 facilities have been commissioned, including residential buildings, educational, medical, cultural and sports institutions, as well as engineering infrastructure. The city has electric transport, ‘smart’ car parks and local media, including a television channel and a newspaper. The ‘Arkadag’ football club is achieving success at both national and international levels. Transport and digital infrastructure are being developed, and CCTV and intelligent traffic management systems have been introduced. Access to high-speed internet is provided via fibre-optic networks and 5G technology. Particular attention is paid to the National Leader’s oversight of construction, whose recommendations are applied during the design and implementation of projects. It was noted that streets and facilities in the city have been named after prominent figures. One of the avenues has been named ‘Ahalteke atlary’, reflecting the region’s historical significance as the homeland of Ahal-Teke horses. In this context, mention was made of the monument to ‘Akhan’, an Ahal-Teke horse listed in the Guinness Book of Records, and the ‘Taýçanak’ monument. At the conclusion of the forum, an Address to the President of Turkmenistan and the National Leader of the Turkmen people was adopted. Artists performed during the cultural part of the event. Musical performances emphasised the festive nature of the occasion. The celebrations continued at the ‘Märkaw’ cultural and entertainment centre, where a sadaqah was organised in honour of the city’s anniversary and in support of the initiative to name the new mosque.
A Korean journalist visited the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan
30.06.2026A meeting was held at the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan with journalist Seong Do Hyeon from the Korean news agency Yonhap News. The event was attended by analysts from the Center for Strategic Relations and faculty members of the institute, according to the “Turkmenistan: Golden Age” news agency. Before the discussion began, Vice-Rector of the institute Gaygysyz Dovletov briefed the guest on the organization and specifics of the academic process. The journalist then visited the institute’s museum, where he was introduced to the history of diplomatic education in Turkmenistan, as well as exhibitions reflecting the country’s historical heritage and cultural landmarks. During the meeting, lecturers and staff of the Center for Strategic Studies answered questions from the Yonhap News representative regarding the current state and prospects of Turkmen-Korean interstate relations. Senior researcher of the Center for Strategic Studies B. Amansaryyev also spoke about a recent conference of analysts held in Dushanbe within the framework of the “Central Asia – Republic of Korea” format. He emphasized the importance of the event for strengthening cooperation between the countries of the region and the Republic of Korea, including Turkmenistan. The meeting took place in a businesslike and constructive atmosphere.
Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan pays working visit to Istanbul
29.06.2026From June 26 to 27, a delegation from Turkmenistan led by the Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mergen Gurdov, visited Istanbul on a working trip. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. During the visit, meetings were held with representatives of leading Turkish business associations. On June 27, talks took place with the Secretary General of the Union of Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Turkic States, Adem Kula, where the sides discussed the expansion of multilateral economic cooperation, the participation of Turkmen institutions in joint initiatives, and the development of trade and industrial collaboration. The delegation also met with the First Vice President of the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Türkiye (TOBB), Ali Kopuz. The parties considered issues related to strengthening business ties, expanding contacts between business communities, and improving conditions for economic interaction. As a result of the negotiations, a mutual interest was confirmed in further developing Turkmen-Turkish economic partnership, including increasing trade turnover and implementing joint investment projects.
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