Society
Turkmen horse breeding was showcased at an international conference in the Netherlands
07.09.2026An international scientific and practical conference entitled ‘Ahalteke bedewi: türkmeniň dünýewi seýisçilik sungaty’ (‘The Ahal-Teke Horse: Turkmen Art of Universal Horse Breeding’) was held in the Kingdom of the Netherlands as part of the World Equestrian Games and the Ahal-Teke Horse Beauty Contest. Representatives from Turkmenistan, as well as academics and horse breeding specialists from more than 20 countries, took part in the event, according to the news agency TDH. One of the central themes of the forum was the historical and cultural significance of the Ahal-Teke breed. Participants highlighted the centuries-old connection between these horses and the history and traditions of the Turkmen people. Particular attention was paid to the inclusion, on 5 December 2023, of the national nomination ‘Art of Ahal-Teke horse breeding and traditions of horses' decoration’ on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The conference also featured a presentation on the activities of the UNESCO Club ‘Ahal-Teke Horses – Envoys of Peace’, established under the Aba Annayev International Academy of Horse Breeding in the city of Arkadag. The organisation is dedicated to promoting the Ahal-Teke breed and its breeding traditions. International experts shared their experience in the areas of training, registration and maintaining the purity of the breed. Jean-Philippe Camboulives, a representative of the International Equestrian Federation, highlighted the development of cooperation with the Aba Annayev International Academy of Horse Breeding, including the training of young specialists and the exchange of professional expertise. Julio Bendezu-Sarmiento, a senior research fellow at the French National Centre for Scientific Research and the National Museum of Natural History and History, presented historical and scientific data on Ahal-Teke racehorses. Patricia Johnson, Director of the US Ahal-Teke Horse Foundation, spoke about the work being done to register horses of this breed in the USA. Following the plenary session, the conference continued with breakout sessions dedicated to the history and development of the Ahal-Teke breed, its significance within UNESCO’s cultural heritage, the portrayal of these horses in art, breeding and veterinary work, as well as the genetic foundations for maintaining the breed’s purity. Particular attention was paid to the development of the horse-breeding infrastructure in the city of Arkadag, where the Aba Annayev International Academy of Horse Breeding and the Scientific and Production Centre for Horse Breeding have been established. The significance of Turkmenistan’s Law ‘On Horse Breeding and Equestrian Sport’, adopted in 2015, was also highlighted. Forum participants emphasised the importance of international cooperation in the study of the Ahal-Teke breed, the preservation of horse-breeding traditions, the development of equestrian sports, and the exchange of scientific and practical experience.
Ashgabat marked the 15th anniversary of the ‘Nebit-gaz’ newspaper
07.09.2026A ceremony was held at the editorial office of the ‘Nebit-gaz’ newspaper to mark the 15th anniversary of the publication’s first issue. The event was attended by representatives of the Trade Union Council of Oil and Gas Workers of Turkmenistan, the state-owned concerns ‘Türkmengaz’ and ‘Türkmennebit’, as well as members of the editorial team, reports AsmanNews. The newspaper, established by a Resolution of the President of Turkmenistan, was first published on 6 September 2011. Over the past 15 years, the publication has covered developments in the country’s fuel and energy sector, including the implementation of international infrastructure projects, the construction of the ‘Turkmenistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan–India’ (TAPI) gas pipeline, the development of oil and gas fields, and the modernisation of petrochemical plants. Those attending the event highlighted the development of the newspaper’s digital infrastructure and the launch of its online edition, which has expanded the publication’s readership both in Turkmenistan and abroad. Special mention was made of the contribution of veteran journalists, the newspaper’s own correspondents in the velayats, photojournalists and authors of articles about enterprises and leading workers. The further development of the newspaper, the improvement of its material and technical resources, and working conditions for staff were also discussed. In conclusion, on behalf of the Trade Union Council of Oil and Gas Industry Workers of Turkmenistan and the state-owned concerns ‘Türkmengaz’ and ‘Türkmennebit’, valuable and commemorative gifts were presented to the staff of the ‘Nebit-gaz’ newspaper.
The second day of the Ahal-Teke Horse Championship took place in the Netherlands
06.09.2026The second day of the World Championship for Ahal-Teke Racehorses and Equestrian Competitions took place at the Peelbergen Equestrian Centre in the Netherlands. The programme included a themed exhibition dedicated to Turkmen equestrian art, traditional culture and folk art, according to the IIC of Turkmenistan. A separate pavilion showcased the history of European horse breeding. Older Ahal-Teke horses competed in the beauty contest. An international panel of experts assessed them on breed characteristics, conformation, posture and grace. One of the most spectacular events was the ‘Most Beautifully Decorated Horse’ competition. Participants presented hand-crafted ceremonial tack featuring silver amulets, traditional ‘agzybaglar’ and national carpet-covered saddlecloths. The programme for the second day concluded with show jumping competitions. The riders demonstrated their technique in clearing obstacles and showcased the athletic qualities of the Ahal-Teke horses.
The world champion among Ahal-Teke horses has been crowned in the Netherlands
06.09.2026The interim results of the World Championship and International Beauty Contest for Ahal-Teke horses have been announced at the Peelbergen Equestrian Centre in the Netherlands. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. More than 100 horses of this breed from 25 countries are taking part in the competition. The top title was won by the Ahal-Teke racehorse Yyndam, representing French horse breeders. The jury praised his breed characteristics, physical condition, posture and the golden hue of his coat. The competition in the Netherlands is still ongoing.
The second day of the Ahal-Teke Horse Championship took place in the Netherlands
06.09.2026The second day of the World Championship for Ahal-Teke Racehorses and Equestrian Competitions took place at the Peelbergen Equestrian Centre in the Netherlands. The programme included a themed exhibition dedicated to Turkmen equestrian art, traditional culture and folk art, according to the IIC of Turkmenistan. A separate pavilion showcased the history of European horse breeding. Older Ahal-Teke horses competed in the beauty contest. An international panel of experts assessed them on breed characteristics, conformation, posture and grace. One of the most spectacular events was the ‘Most Beautifully Decorated Horse’ competition. Participants presented hand-crafted ceremonial tack featuring silver amulets, traditional ‘agzybaglar’ and national carpet-covered saddlecloths. The programme for the second day concluded with show jumping competitions. The riders demonstrated their technique in clearing obstacles and showcased the athletic qualities of the Ahal-Teke horses.
The world champion among Ahal-Teke horses has been crowned in the Netherlands
06.09.2026The interim results of the World Championship and International Beauty Contest for Ahal-Teke horses have been announced at the Peelbergen Equestrian Centre in the Netherlands. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. More than 100 horses of this breed from 25 countries are taking part in the competition. The top title was won by the Ahal-Teke racehorse Yyndam, representing French horse breeders. The jury praised his breed characteristics, physical condition, posture and the golden hue of his coat. The competition in the Netherlands is still ongoing.
Representatives from Turkmenistan took part in a conference for young parliamentarians
06.09.2026Representatives of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan took part in the 12th World Conference of Young Parliamentarians of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, held on 4–5 September 2026 in Samarkand. This was reported by the press office of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan. The conference focused on the role of young people in political and public life, expanding the participation of young parliamentarians in legislative and state activities, protecting their rights and ensuring equal opportunities, as well as strengthening peace and inter-regional cooperation. At the opening session, participants discussed the protection of young people’s rights and freedoms, the development of the legal framework for youth policy, and the creation of conditions to realise young people’s potential. The need for comprehensive support for young people to achieve sustainable development was emphasised. A representative of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan spoke about the country’s work to protect the rights and freedoms of young people and women, strengthen their role in society, and expand opportunities for their participation in public administration and various sectors of the economy. The role of cooperation with international organisations in this area was also highlighted. Participants examined issues relating to the economic independence of young people, the protection of their rights in the labour market, and support for young entrepreneurs. Particular attention was paid to digital accessibility, security, data protection and the development of young people’s skills in the context of the introduction of new technologies. In addition, discussions centred on young people’s participation in environmental initiatives, environmental protection and the challenges posed by climate change. Participants emphasised the importance of legal approaches to ensuring sustainable development and climate protection in the interests of present and future generations.
Ahal-Teke racehorses from Turkmenistan are dominating the World Championships in the Netherlands
05.09.2026The World Ahal-Teke Horse Championship and International Beauty Contest are taking place in the Dutch town of Kronenberg. The competitions are being held at the Peelbergen Equestrian Centre, with participants from 25 countries, according to IIC of Turkmenistan. Over 100 horses have arrived in the Netherlands to take part in the championship, including 30 elite horses from Turkmenistan. The programme includes an Ahal-Teke show, as well as dressage and show jumping competitions. Winners are determined based on the horses’ conformation, movements and golden coat colour. Following the first round of competitions, the Turkmen Ahal-Teke horses secured six prize-winning places. Among the two-year-old fillies, Jeren Gözli took first place and Ak Monjuk came second. Meledag was crowned champion among the two-year-old colts. In the category for three-year-old mares, Al Yaňak received the bronze medal. Among the three-year-old colts, Güneş won, whilst Gözbaş took second place. An international scientific and practical conference entitled ‘Ahal-Teke Horse: Turkmen World Art of Horse Breeding’ was held in the neighbouring town of Venray. It was attended by experts, horse breeders, scientists, cultural figures and art historians from various countries. Participants discussed the history of the Ahal-Teke breed’s development, its cultural heritage, the scientific and genetic foundations of breeding and veterinary practice, as well as the portrayal of the Ahal-Teke in art. New publications on the breed were also presented at the conference. In particular, a Dutch-language edition of the book by the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, entitled ‘A Horse – A Symbol of Faithfulness and Happiness’. The book consists of eight chapters and is devoted to the traditions of Turkmen horse breeding and issues relating to the development of the sector.
Turkmenistan and the EIB discussed a framework agreement on cooperation
05.09.2026On 3 September, Turkmenistan and the European Investment Bank (EIB) held online negotiations on a framework agreement to develop cooperation between the two parties, according to the Delegation of the European Union to Turkmenistan. This was reported by the online publication ‘Business Turkmenistan’. The negotiations were attended by representatives of the Ministry of Finance and Economy, the Central Bank, the Ministry of Justice and the Supreme Court of Turkmenistan, as well as the EIB’s Regional Office for Central Asia in Tashkent, the bank’s headquarters and the EU Delegation to Turkmenistan. The parties continued their dialogue and work on advancing cooperation between Turkmenistan and the EIB. Earlier, the Head of the EIB’s Regional Office for Central Asia, Olivier Kueny, told the ‘Trend’ news agency that the conclusion of a framework agreement with Turkmenistan is a key condition for the bank to commence operations in the country. The European Investment Bank is the European Union’s main public lending institution, founded in 1958 in Luxembourg. The Bank finances projects in the fields of infrastructure, the environment, energy and digitalisation.
The Turkmenistan Ambassador to the UAE met with representatives of ‘Neopharma’
05.09.2026Bayram Bayramov, Ambassador of Turkmenistan to the UAE, met on Thursday with representatives of the pharmaceutical company ‘Neopharma’ LLC, according to the Turkmenistan Embassy in the UAE. This was reported by the online publication ‘Business Turkmenistan’. The parties discussed prospects for bilateral cooperation in the pharmaceutical sector: opportunities for the supply of medicines, the exchange of professional expertise, technology transfer and the development of production capacity. The Ambassador noted the steady development of Turkmen-Emirati relations and the mutual interest of the parties in expanding cooperation in the fields of healthcare and the pharmaceutical industry. Following the meeting, the parties agreed to continue the dialogue, including through contacts with the Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan. ‘Neopharma’ LLC was founded in 2003. The company operates ten manufacturing facilities across three continents, produces over 100 medicinal products and supplies its products to more than 50 countries, including states in the Middle East, Africa and the CIS.
Kronenberg is hosting a beauty contest for Ahal-Teke racehorses
05.09.2026The World Equestrian Championships and a Beauty Contest for Ahal-Teke horses have begun on 4 September in the Dutch town of Kronenberg. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The event is organised by the state association ‘Türkmen Atlary’ and the European Association of Ahal-Teke Horses. The event is timed to coincide with the Year of ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’. The programme includes equestrian competitions, a beauty contest for racehorses, an international scientific conference on the Ahal-Teke breed, and presentations on Turkmen culture and traditions. Performances by the ‘Galkynyş’ National Equestrian Games Group and the State Circus of Turkmenistan are also planned. Teachers and students from the Aba Annayev International Equestrian Academy are involved in organising the events, according to the newspaper ‘Turkmenistan’. Hundreds of representatives from around 30 countries are expected to attend the events in Kronenberg, with more than 100 of them taking part in the international scientific and practical conference on Ahal-Teke horses. The forum comprises a main session and five sections: discussions will focus on achievements in the development of equestrian arts in Turkmenistan, the history of the breed, the significance of the inclusion of Ahal-Teke horse-breeding traditions and the tradition of horse decoration on the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage, as well as the scientific study of the equine industry. Speakers include experts and horse breeders from Italy, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, France and the USA. Turkmen national culture will be showcased in the square of the Peelbergen Equestrian Centre: seven yurts will be erected to display the traditions and customs of the people, national costumes, the art of the bakhshi and scenes from wedding ceremonies. Guests will also visit stands showcasing the traditions of horse-breeding in Europe. As part of the official reception, there will be a concert featuring Turkmen bakhshis and pop singers, as well as Turkish, Italian and German singers. Artists and students of creative disciplines from Turkmenistan and other countries took part in the art competition dedicated to the Ahal-Teke horses, submitting works in the fields of painting, sculpture, jewellery, carpet weaving and photography.
Turkmenistan and Kyrgyzstan have outlined plans for CACCC-2027
04.09.2026Mergen Kepbanov, Director of the Project Office of the Regional Environmental Centre for Central Asia (CAREC) in Turkmenistan, held a meeting with Azizbek Madmarov, Ambassador of the Kyrgyz Republic to Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the prospects for developing regional cooperation among the countries of Central Asia in the fields of environmental protection, climate change, sustainable development and environmental education, according to the news website Turkmenportal. Mergen Kepbanov spoke about the activities of CAREC and its role in developing regional environmental cooperation, focusing in particular on the work of the project office in Turkmenistan — its contribution to the implementation of initiatives on the sustainable management of natural resources, adaptation to climate change, the conservation of biodiversity and the development of environmental capacity. The participants discussed the Central Asian Climate Change Conference (CACCC) as a platform for exchanging experience on climate policy and sustainable development. The parties noted that the 9th CACCC will take place in 2027 as part of the Mountain Summit in Bishkek. Kepbanov confirmed the CAREC’s readiness to assist with its preparation and organisation. The meeting participants also touched upon the training of young professionals to work in the environmental and climate sectors, emphasising the need to expand opportunities for specialised education for young people in Central Asian countries. The parties expressed an interest in developing cooperation between the Embassy of the Kyrgyz Republic and the CAREC project office, as well as in increasing the participation of Kyrgyz representatives in the Centre’s regional events and initiatives – including joint conferences, the exchange of expertise and staff training.
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