Society
The New Year's performance ‘Winged Steeds’ attracted audiences in Ashgabat
27.12.2025The New Year's circus performance ‘Winged Steeds’ took place in Ashgabat. The programme became one of the festive events of the winter season, according to IIC. The highlight of the evening was the performance of the national equestrian group ‘Galkynysh’. The artists presented elements of horseman riding on Ahal-Teke horses. The group is a six-time world champion and winner of the Monte Carlo festival in 2025. The performance was opened by aerial gymnast Aylar Bebilova. The programme also featured aerial gymnasts, tightrope walkers, jugglers and acrobats. The audience was treated to performances with animals, including Indian monkeys and German poodles. Representatives of a circus dynasty — a mother and daughter — took part in the show. A separate episode was a snake dance performed by young gymnasts, symbolising the end of 2025 and the transition to 2026, whose symbol is the horse. The finale of the evening was the appearance of Ayaz Baba and Garpamyk riding Ahal-Teke horses. The ‘Winged Racers’ programme will run in Ashgabat until 11 January.
Turkmenistan and UNDP update biodiversity conservation strategy
25.12.2025On 24 December, a seminar was held in Ashgabat, marking a new stage of cooperation between UNDP and the Ministry of Environment of Turkmenistan. The main purpose of the event was to update the National Strategy for Action and prepare the 7th National Report for the UN Convention on Biological Diversity, according to the online news resource TerraNews. The seminar was attended by representatives of ministries, scientists and experts from the private sector. Discussions focused on aligning national plans with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, adapting environmental policy to the 2030 goals, the results of previous initiatives (GEF-7) and integration with the BIOFIN programme to find new sources of funding for nature conservation. The updated strategy and action plan for biodiversity conservation describe measures to protect Turkmenistan's ecosystems in the context of climate change. The country is participating in a global project with 139 participants, confirming its commitments to the UN.
Ashgabat summarises results of media literacy training for coaches
25.12.2025A final event on the results of the year-long training of national media literacy trainers was held at the OSCE Centre office in Ashgabat. This was reported by the IIC. The meeting was attended by representatives of government agencies, educational institutions, the media and international organisations. Experts from Kazakhstan joined the discussion online. Participants noted the importance of media literacy for the formation of an information culture, countering disinformation and the responsible use of digital resources. During the event, the results of the training programmes and workshops were summarised, and a work plan for the next period was defined. The training was aimed at developing skills in critical analysis of information, working with sources and compliance with media ethics. National trainers presented the results of their activities and underwent a competency assessment in the form of an interactive quiz. Following the discussion, practical recommendations were prepared on data verification and updating training methods. The meeting ended with a question-and-answer session. It was noted that work in this area will continue in Central Asian countries. The next meeting of experts is scheduled for 2026.
‘Sony’ to support Turkmenistan's transition to 4K television broadcasting
24.12.2025‘Sony’ Corporation has been cooperating with the State Committee of Turkmenistan for Television, Radio Broadcasting and Cinematography for several years, supplying equipment for the television broadcasting system. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. ‘Sony’ CEO Toshihiro Takami said that the company is working on transitioning television from Full HD to 4K, which provides higher image quality. Under the signed agreement, ‘Sony’ plans to develop a basic project, implement it in technical equipment and scientific research, and organise training for Turkmen specialists.
Turkmenistan assessed the effectiveness of South Korea's advanced recycling technologies
24.12.2025Central Asia is actively studying South Korea's experience in recycling used solar panels, recognised as a world leader in the handling of complex waste. A webinar bringing together environmentalists from Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan discussed technologies that allow up to 95% of useful materials — aluminium, glass and rare metals — to be extracted with minimal CO₂ emissions, according to the Orient news agency. Mergen Kepbanov, director of the CAREC project office in Turkmenistan, noted that the Korean model combines high technology and economic efficiency, which is important for the formation of a circular economy in the region. The Kazakh office of CAREC is ready to expand cooperation by introducing Eastern innovations alongside existing German projects. For Turkmenistan, these recycling systems make it possible to build a ‘clean’ energy production cycle at hybrid solar-wind stations without accumulating environmental damage.
A book of Hero Arkadag was presented in Ashgabat in Azerbaijani language
23.12.2025At the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, a presentation of the book ‘Hakyda göwheri’ (‘Jewel of the Mind’) by Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, was held, published in Azerbaijani. This was reported by TDH. The event was attended by the leadership of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Azerbaijan to Turkmenistan, the Plenipotentiary Representative of Turkmenistan in Azerbaijan, representatives of the Inter-Parliamentary Friendship Group, scientists from the Academy of Sciences of Turkmenistan, teachers and students of the university. Before the presentation began, participants viewed a thematic exhibition in the foyer of the Institute. Speaking at the event, Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan Gismat Gozalov noted the importance of the publication for popularising the spiritual and historical heritage of the Turkmen people and expanding access to scientific works for Azerbaijani readers. It was emphasised that the book contains information about the contribution of the Turkmen people to world culture, the history of ancient states and the development of political and trade relations in the region. The relevance of the ideas of peace, justice and creativity reflected in the work was noted. The presentation also touched upon the development of Turkmen-Azerbaijani relations. It was noted that cooperation between the two countries is actively developing at a high political level and is of a strategic nature. Special mention was made of the visits of the National Leader of the Turkmen people to Azerbaijan in 2025 and contacts within the framework of the Organisation of Turkic States. Special attention was paid to humanitarian cooperation, including the initiatives of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation and joint projects with the Heydar Aliyev Foundation. The speakers emphasised that the translation of the book ‘Hakyda göwheri’ into Azerbaijani was further confirmation of the strengthening of cultural and humanitarian ties between Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan. The presentation of the book became part of the cultural dialogue between the two friendly states and expanded opportunities for mutual study of historical and spiritual heritage.
The EU Delegation to Turkmenistan held an intellectual tournament
22.12.2025The fifth annual intellectual tournament ‘Winter Cup 2025’, organised by the EU Delegation to Turkmenistan and dedicated to European Christmas and New Year traditions, took place in Ashgabat. This was reported by the IIC. This year, the tournament saw a record number of participants – 51 teams and more than 300 people, including students, schoolchildren, young professionals and representatives of various fields. The competition was held in Turkmen and Russian. The competition consisted of two preliminary rounds and a final round, where teams answered questions in one minute, demonstrating logic, analytical skills and teamwork. The ‘N K B’ team won, with ‘Chocolate Owl’ in second place and ‘Smile and Wave’ in third. The tournament programme included a concert by popular Turkmen singer Shad Ovez, who performed between rounds, creating a festive atmosphere. The ‘Winter Cup’ continues to serve as a platform for cultural exchange, learning and youth engagement, promoting critical thinking, inclusivity and mutual understanding.
The 4th meeting of the ‘One Health’ Committee was held in Ashgabat
22.12.2025On 19 December 2025, the 4th meeting of the National Inter-Sectoral Coordination Committee for the Implementation of the ‘One Health’ Approach in Turkmenistan was held at the United Nations Building in Ashgabat with the assistance of the WHO. This was reported by IIC. The committee was established to coordinate and facilitate cooperation in the field of ‘One Health’. It includes representatives of the country's ministries and agencies. The meeting heard reports from national coordinators from the State Veterinary Service, the Ministry of Health and Medical Industry, and the Ministry of Environment of Turkmenistan. A report was presented by the National Coordinator for ‘One Health’ from the State Veterinary Service under the Ministry of Agriculture of Turkmenistan, Head of the Department of International and Scientific Relations Arslan Soltanmyradov. He presented data on the progress of the approach in the field of animal health protection. The State Veterinary Service under the Ministry of Agriculture, relying on a network of territorial divisions and laboratory facilities, participates in the prevention, early detection and response to zoonotic diseases. The committee's tasks include coordinating and monitoring activities to implement the ‘One Health’ approach, supporting the development of state policy in this area and strengthening national capacity, taking into account the risks at the intersection of human, animal and ecosystem health.
Turkmenistan assessed the state of water supply and sanitation as part of a UN-WHO project
19.12.2025A national meeting organised by the WHO Country Office in Turkmenistan was held in Ashgabat at the UN building to discuss the results of an analysis of baseline data in the areas of water supply, sanitation, hygiene (WASH) and health, according to the news website Turkmenportal. The event was held as part of the UNECE-WHO/Europe project aimed at expanding access to safe water and sanitation and protecting public health. The meeting was attended by representatives of relevant ministries, government agencies and international organisations, including WHO, UNECE and UNICEF. Participants discussed the current state of water resources, the country's priorities and the benefits of implementing the Protocol on Water and Health. The results of data analysis were presented, as well as the experience of Belarus, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan in setting national targets under the Protocol. Following the meeting, the parties exchanged views on further steps to improve WASH and health care in Turkmenistan, reaffirming their commitment to international standards and cooperation.
UNICEF Regional Director paid an official visit to Turkmenistan
19.12.2025UNICEF Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia Regina De Dominici visited Turkmenistan on an official visit. During her trip, she held meetings with representatives of the Turkmenistan Government, according to Turkmenportal. Negotiations were held with Deputy Prime Ministers Bayramgul Orazdurdyeva and Hojamyrat Geldimyradov, Human Rights Commissioner in Turkmenistan Yazdursun Gurbannazarova, and the governor of Mary velayat Dovranberdi Annaberdiyev. The parties discussed issues of further cooperation in the interests of children, UNICEF reports. Regina De Dominici noted the commitment of the Government of Turkmenistan to protecting the rights and well-being of children and confirmed UNICEF's readiness to continue joint work within the framework of the new Country Cooperation Programme for 2026-2030. The priorities include early childhood development, support for children with disabilities, the development of climate-resilient ‘green schools,’ youth engagement, and the strengthening of public financial mechanisms for the benefit of children. During her visit, the UNICEF Regional Director visited a children's hospital and Health Centre No. 3 in Mary velayat, as well as the pilot inclusive school No. 74 in Ashgabat. She also took part in the International Forum for Peace and Trust. Following the visit, Regina De Dominici noted the practical steps being taken in the country in the areas of inclusive education, child development screening and social support for families.
Turkmenistan awarded UNESCO certificate for the art of breeding Alabay dogs
17.12.2025A ceremony was held at the Center of the International Ahal-Teke Horse Breeding Association and the International Association ‘Türkmen alabaý itleri’ to award the UNESCO Certificate of Inscription of the National Nomination ‘The art of breeding Turkmen alabay’ to the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This was reported by AsmanNews. The event was attended by representatives of government agencies, public organisations and specialists in the field of dog breeding. During the ceremony, it was noted that the Turkmen alabay is an important part of the country's historical and cultural heritage, and that work to preserve the purity of the breed and develop breeding is being carried out at the state level. Particular attention was paid to the activities of the International Association ‘Türkmen alabaý itleri’, as well as the creation of specialised complexes and centres in the regions and the capital, where modern breeding and scientific research methods are applied. Before the official part of the event began, participants viewed an exhibition featuring materials on the history of Turkmen alabay dogs, examples of decorative and applied art, carpets, photographs and literary works dedicated to the breed. Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers T. Atahallyev spoke at the ceremony. He emphasised the significance of the decision of the UNESCO Inter-governmental Committee, adopted at its session in New Delhi, and noted the contribution of state policy to the international recognition of national values. The celebrations continued at the Ashgabat Equestrian Complex, where a show of Turkmen alabay dogs, including the winners of the international competition, was held. The event concluded with a concert programme featuring masters of culture and art.
Bilateral relations between Turkmenistan and Qatar have reached a new level
17.12.2025In 2025, bilateral relations between Turkmenistan and Qatar developed actively due to close cooperation between the leaders of the two countries. This was stated by the Ambassador of Qatar to Turkmenistan, Nasser bin Ahmed Al-Taher, at a reception on the occasion of Qatar National Day, according to the news website Turkmenportal. The Diplomat emphasised the personal role of the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, in strengthening ties. Throughout the year, meetings and consultations were held between high-ranking representatives of both countries, joint events were organised, and mutual visits by delegations took place. Ashgabat was visited by the President of the Qatar Olympic Committee, First Vice-President of the Association of National Olympic Committees and Vice-President for Asia Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani and Qatar's Minister of State for International Cooperation Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al-Misnad, who participated in a number of international conferences. Turkmen delegations also visited Qatar to participate in international summits. The Ambassador noted Turkmenistan's support for Qatar, including its condemnation of Israel's bombing of a residential area in Doha. Oguljahan Atabayeva, representing the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship, also arrived in Doha with the delegation to participate in the Doha Forum 2025.
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