Society
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.
The rational use of the waters of the Amu Darya and Syr Darya was discussed at ‘Awaza’
08.10.2026A high-level meeting of Central Asian countries on the rational use of the water resources of the Amu Darya and Syr Darya rivers took place on 7 October in the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone. This was reported by the news agency TDH. The meeting was attended by heads of relevant ministries and experts from the water management sector. The main focus was on coordinating inter-state cooperation in the field of water use. Participants discussed compliance with agreements relating to the Amu Darya and Syr Darya basins, the modernisation of water management infrastructure and the introduction of water-saving technologies. Proposals included expanding the use of drip irrigation, lining canals with concrete and digitising the monitoring of cross-border river flows. The activities of the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea and the Interstate Commission for Water Coordination were considered separately, as were ways of improving the effectiveness of their work. The agenda included environmental projects aimed at preventing soil salinisation and desertification, as well as finding a balance between the interests of hydropower and irrigated agriculture. The participants also supported Turkmenistan’s initiative to establish a Regional Centre for Climate Change Technologies in Central Asia. Following the meeting, the parties agreed on approaches to further cooperation in the field of water and environmental sustainability in the region.
The development of seed production in the CIS countries was discussed at ‘Awaza’
08.10.2026On 7 October, the 27th meeting of the Inter-governmental Co-ordinating Council on Seed Production of the Commonwealth of Independent States took place in the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone. It was attended by heads of agricultural ministries, scientists and representatives of plant breeding centres from CIS countries, according to the news agency TDH. Participants discussed the development of inter-state cooperation in the field of plant breeding and seed production, ensuring food security, and the implementation of the Agreement on the Development of the Inter-State Market for Agricultural Seeds. Particular attention was paid to removing administrative and phytosanitary barriers, improving seed certification, exchanging scientific research findings, and developing varieties resistant to drought and disease. Issues relating to the digitalisation of the sector and the efficient use of land and water resources were also addressed. On the same day, the 28th meeting of the ‘Semena’ Association took place. Experts discussed the adaptation of seed production to climate change, the standardisation of seed quality, the development of scientific and industrial cooperation, and the application of modern breeding methods, including molecular genetics and digital technologies. This was followed by the International Conference on Plant Breeding and Seed Production. Participants examined the sector’s development, modern crop cultivation technologies, high-quality seed production and the expansion of joint research programmes. The conference also addressed issues relating to seed storage and processing, phytosanitary safety, the market for cereals and oilseeds, exports, logistics and public-private partnerships. Following the events, the participants agreed to continue their cooperation in the fields of plant breeding and seed production, the exchange of expertise, and the introduction of modern technologies into the agricultural sector.
Demography and sustainable development were discussed in Turkmenistan
08.10.2026On 7 October, the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone hosted the International Conference ‘Demographic Processes and Sustainable Development: Contemporary Challenges and International Experience’. The forum was attended by representatives of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan, the parliaments of Saudi Arabia, Turkey and the CIS countries, as well as specialised UN agencies, according to the news agency TDH. Participants discussed the impact of demographic processes on socio-economic development, as well as issues of public policy in the fields of population, healthcare, education, the labour market and social protection. Particular attention was paid to the use of population and housing census data, digital technologies for processing statistical information, and the integration of demographic indicators into long-term planning. The conference also addressed issues relating to urban and rural development, the implementation of ‘smart’ and ‘green’ city standards, the protection of mothers and children, support for families and young people, and adaptation to climate change. Representatives from Turkmenistan highlighted their collaboration with specialised UN agencies, including the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). This cooperation is aimed at improving the analysis of demographic indicators, monitoring the Sustainable Development Goals and exchanging international best practice. Participants also discussed improving the legal and institutional framework in the field of demography and opportunities for further international cooperation. A Final Document was adopted at the conclusion of the conference.
Turkmenistan hosted a meeting of the Interstate Commission for Water Coordination
08.10.2026On 7 October 2026, the 95th meeting of the Interstate Commission for Water Coordination (ICWC) of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, the Republic of Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and the Republic of Uzbekistan took place in ‘Awaza’. The meeting was hosted by the Turkmen side. The meeting was chaired by Durdy Genjiyev, Chairman of the State Committee for Water Resources of Turkmenistan, according to the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The meeting was attended by members of the ICWC, representatives of the water management authorities of the Central Asian states, the Commission’s executive bodies and the Executive Committee of the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea (IFAS). The main focus was on the results of water use in the Syr Darya and Amu Darya basins during the 2026 growing season. The parties discussed the allocation of water resources and the operating regimes of the reservoir cascades for the 2026–2027 inter-growing season. The participants also reviewed the implementation of the decisions taken at the summits of the Heads of State of the IFAS’s founding member states. The agenda included the implementation of the 4th Aral Sea Basin Programme (ASBP-4), the introduction of water-saving and digital technologies, adaptation to climate change, and the development of water diplomacy and scientific capacity. Following the meeting, the parties adopted a protocol.
An international exhibition and scientific conference are to be held in Ashgabat
08.10.2026From 10 to 12 October, Ashgabat will host an International Exhibition and Scientific Conference entitled ‘Healthcare, Education and Sports in the Renaissance Era of a New Epoch of a Powerful State’. This was reported by Turkmenportal. The events will take place at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan. Representatives of ministries and sectoral departments, members of the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs, Turkmen entrepreneurs, citizens of the country and representatives of foreign companies are invited to attend. Further information can be obtained by calling 39-88-81 and 39-88-84 (83, 82).
The Austrian-Turkmen Society presented new projects in Ashgabat
07.10.2026On 5 October, the ‘Ýyldyz’ Hotel in Ashgabat hosted the latest meeting of the Austrian-Turkmen Society. The meeting was attended by representatives of Austrian and Turkmen companies, members of the society and figures from the arts, according to Turkmenportal. Participants discussed the development of bilateral relations, the Society’s projects and events marking the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s independence. The meeting was also attended by the Society’s Chair, Neda Berger, the Turkmen Ambassador to Austria, the Secretary-General and the Vice-President of the organisation. Particular attention was paid to Turkmenistan’s participation and the Ahal-Teke horses at the World Equestrian Games in Peelbergen (the Netherlands), which took place from 4 to 6 September 2026. This marked Turkmenistan’s first-ever participation in these competitions. The participants were presented with materials on the address by the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov; Neda Berger’s participation in the international academic conference ‘The Turkmen Heavenly Steed — A Symbol of Our Era’; and the performance by the German opera singer Konstantin Rittel-Kobylianski as part of the gala concert. The meeting also saw the presentation of the society’s revamped website and the project ‘The voice of Turkmen youth today is the voice of Turkmenistan's future!’, which is being implemented with the participation of representatives of the younger generation. Participants discussed plans for the society’s anniversary event, which is scheduled to take place in Ashgabat in 2027.
Turkmenistan is represented at the Science and Technology Forum in Kyoto
07.10.2026A Turkmen delegation comprising representatives from the Academy of Sciences of Turkmenistan and the Oguz Han University of Engineering and Technology of Turkmenistan took part in the international forum ‘Science and Technology in Society’ (STS), which is being held in the Japanese city of Kyoto. The forum also included the 22nd round-table meeting at the level of ministers of science and technology. This was reported by the news agency “Turkmenistan: Golden age”. The official opening of the STS took place on 4 October. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi emphasised the need to harness scientific innovation in the interests of sustainable development, peace and the well-being of humanity. During the plenary and thematic sessions, participants discussed the prospects for the development of science and technology up to 2030 and beyond. The main focus was on artificial intelligence, biotechnology and renewable energy, as well as issues relating to their development in accordance with ethical principles. As part of the forum, a session was held chaired by Julie Maxton, Executive Director of the Royal Society of London. Participants examined the impact of artificial intelligence on society, as well as the ethical and practical risks associated with its development. On 5 October, Allaberdi Ashirov, President of the Academy of Sciences of Turkmenistan, addressed the ‘Academy of Science Presidents’ Meeting’. He outlined the main directions of Turkmenistan’s state policy in the field of science, including the development of research activities, the introduction of high technologies into production, and the training of young scientists. Particular attention in his speech was paid to international scientific cooperation, joint innovation projects and the exchange of experience between academies of sciences. The Turkmen delegation’s visit to Japan will last until 8 October. It is aimed at developing cooperation in the scientific, educational and technological spheres.
An international conference in Ashgabat was dedicated to national heritage
06.10.2026On 5 October 2026, the Institute of International Relations of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan hosted an international conference entitled ‘Our National Heritage – A Solid Foundation for Our Independence’. This was reported by the press office of the Institute of International Relations of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The event was dedicated to the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s independence, the motto for 2026 – ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’ – and the International Day for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. Participants discussed the preservation and promotion of the historical and cultural heritage of the Turkmen people, its significance for statehood, and the development of international cultural cooperation under the auspices of UNESCO. Representatives of UNESCO departments and clubs, as well as national commissions from foreign countries, took part in the conference via a digital platform. Presentations were given by representatives from Belarus, Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic and Turkey. Representatives from the Ministry of Culture of Turkmenistan and the Central Council of the Magtymguly Youth Organisation of Turkmenistan also took part in the discussion. In conclusion, the participants adopted an Appeal to the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov.
A new restaurant serving Slavic cuisine has opened in Ashgabat
06.10.2026A restaurant serving Slavic cuisine, decorated in a traditional Russian style, has opened in Ashgabat. The menu features national dishes, according to IIC of Turkmenistan. The idea for the restaurant came to its owner whilst he was living in Russia. After returning to Turkmenistan in April, he began work on the establishment in May. Renovation work was carried out and the menu prepared over the course of several months. The interior is decorated with traditional patterns and hand-embroidery. The waiters wear Russian costumes, whilst elements of the heating system are styled to resemble Russian stoves with samovars. Decorative salt cellars were crafted by local artists. The menu includes borscht, pelmeni and tea from a samovar. At the opening, guests were welcomed in traditional costumes with a loaf of bread and a performance by skomorokhi.
Digital monitoring of climate finance was discussed in Ashgabat
06.10.2026An inter-ministerial training session on modern technologies for adapting to climate change and protecting the environment was held at the ‘Arçabil’ Hotel. The event was organised by the Ministry of Environmental Protection of Turkmenistan, the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) and the Green Climate Fund, according to the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The main focus of the meeting was the presentation and testing of a new digital tool for monitoring climate finance. Representatives from ministries and departments familiarised themselves with the platform’s capabilities, methods for collecting departmental statistics and the classification of expenditure. The digital system is designed to systematise data on environmental protection expenditure, improve the quality of reporting on greenhouse gas emissions and enhance government planning. The platform also enables the analysis of data relating to agriculture and forestry, and allows for the assessment of Turkmenistan’s contribution to fulfilling its obligations under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement. Following the training, experts highlighted the significant volume of domestic climate finance in Turkmenistan and the implementation of long-term national programmes in the field of sustainable development.
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