Society
Turkmenistan's Ambassador discussed AI and cybersecurity with European partners
26.02.2026Sapar Palvanov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to Belgium, took part in the first session of the expert series ‘The Talk,’ organised by the ‘Norm’ platform in conjunction with ‘Diplomatic World’ and supported by ‘Cardo Brussels.’ This was reported by the IIC. Diplomats, representatives of European institutions and the business community took part in the discussion. The discussion focused on digitalisation, the development of artificial intelligence and the adaptation of national legislation to new technologies, with an emphasis on data protection and cybersecurity. The Turkmen side emphasised the modernisation of the legal framework, the development of electronic public services and the readiness to implement international practices. The Ambassador expressed interest in expanding cooperation with Europe in the field of digital transformation. On the same day, S. Palvanov, together with the Ambassadors of Central Asian countries and Mongolia, met with Belgian MEP Pascal Arimont.
The Consul General of Turkmenistan in Istanbul met with the Rector of Medipol University
26.02.2026A meeting between Consul General Ovezgeldi Jumanazarov and Rector of Medipol University Bahadir Kurshat Gunturk was held at the Consulate General of Turkmenistan in Istanbul. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The parties discussed prospects for cooperation in the fields of higher education, science and medicine, focusing on the development of academic contacts and the exchange of experience. The interlocutors also discussed the creation of favourable conditions for Turkmen students to study in Turkey, the expansion of scholarship programmes, academic mobility and joint scientific projects. The importance of concluding relevant agreements for the long-term and systematic development of the partnership was noted.
The Permanent Representative of Turkmenistan to IRENA has assumed his duties
26.02.2026On 24 February, in Abu Dhabi, Bayram Bayramov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to the UAE, presented his credentials to Francesco La Camera, Director-General of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. From that moment on, the Turkmen diplomat officially took office as the Permanent Representative of Turkmenistan to the organisation. After the ceremony, negotiations were held, during which the parties discussed the prospects for bilateral cooperation. The focus was on joint initiatives for the production of ‘green’ hydrogen and the introduction of renewable energy technologies into Turkmenistan's energy system. Following the meeting, both sides confirmed their readiness to continue strategic dialogue, emphasising the importance of Turkmenistan for regional energy security and the development of international environmental diplomacy.
Indian Ambassador familiarises himself with the economic and cultural potential of Mary velayat
25.02.2026Bandaru Wilsonbabu, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of India to Turkmenistan, paid an official visit to Mary velayat, combining economic agenda and cultural dialogue. This was reported by the Orient news agency. During the Diplomat's meetings with the Governor of Mary velayat, Dovranberdi Annaberdiyev, and the Mayor of Mary city, Artyk Byashimov, they discussed the expansion of trade and economic ties, including the format of direct interaction between Mary velayat and five industrially developed states of India. This approach opens up opportunities for the exchange of experience in the agricultural sector, technology and textile industry. The cultural part of the visit included the opening of the Indian Film Festival and events aimed at strengthening humanitarian dialogue. Special attention was paid to yoga as an element of cultural diplomacy and intercultural rapprochement. The Indian side confirmed its readiness to deepen partnership and exchange experience, noting the importance of the Mary velayat in the development of bilateral relations.
The Technopark of the Academy of Sciences of Turkmenistan has patented a number of innovative developments
25.02.2026The International Scientific and Technological Park of the Academy of Sciences of Turkmenistan has secured the rights to a number of promising developments focused on the development of the ‘green’ economy and high-tech industries. This was reported by ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. Cooperation with government agencies remains a key area of activity for the Technopark. Today, the institution acts as a partner to the country's ministries and departments, providing scientific and research support for projects and promoting the introduction of innovative solutions in the industrial and social spheres. The portfolio of patented developments includes a number of promising technologies. Among them is a nanoemulsion composition based on Kopetdag wormwood essential oil, which opens up opportunities for expanding the use of local plant raw materials in medicine and pharmacology. An organo-mineral sulphur polymer concrete composite based on industrial waste has also been patented. The technology is aimed at improving the moisture protection of engineering structures and the rational processing of secondary resources. Another development is an organo-mineral fertiliser made from brown coal, intended for the agro-industrial complex. The product is aimed at restoring soil fertility, improving environmental safety and reducing import dependence in the field of agrochemistry. New solutions are currently in the patenting stage. These include a lactose gel for comprehensive correction of age-related skin changes, created as part of biotechnological research, as well as a bionanocomposite material based on cyanobacteria, combining the achievements of biology and materials science. As noted, the granting of state patents and certificates confirms the applied potential of Turkmen science and its contribution to the modernisation of the national economy. It is expected that further cooperation between the Technopark and relevant agencies will contribute to the accelerated introduction of innovations.
Embassies of Muslim countries in Turkmenistan organise iftars during Ramadan
25.02.2026During Ramadan, diplomatic missions of Muslim countries in Turkmenistan hold traditional evening meals called iftars. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. On 19 February, an iftar was organised by the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in Ashgabat under the leadership of UAE Ambassador Ahmed Al Hameli. Similar events were previously held by the Embassy of Libya and, on 23 February, by the Embassy of Saudi Arabia. Each iftar is accompanied by a joint prayer led by the country's mufti or a representative of the Muftiate of Turkmenistan, emphasising the spiritual significance of the event. Iftars are expected to be held at other embassies in the near future. These meetings traditionally bring together diplomats, government officials and the public, strengthening intercultural ties and friendship between countries.
Ashgabat to bring together leaders of the children's industry at ‘Kids Expo 2026’
24.02.2026From 19 to 22 August 2026, Ashgabat will host the ‘Kids Expo 2026’ International Exhibition, which will bring together leading brands, distributors and innovative service providers in the field of goods for children and families. This was reported by the Orient news agency. The organisers are the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan and ‘TurkmenExpo’, which gives the event international status. ‘Kids Expo 2026’ will become a strategic platform for entering the Central Asian market and strengthening business ties in the children's goods segment. Participants will be able to sign contracts with retailers and receive feedback from end consumers. The main focus is on innovation and high-quality products, including educational technologies, digital entertainment and goods for a safe and comfortable lifestyle for children. For international businesses, ‘Kids Expo 2026’ opens up opportunities to form distribution networks and direct agreements with retail chains, educational centres and service companies, ensuring rapid integration into the local market. The exhibition includes key segments: • Fashion & Style — clothing, footwear and accessories for children; • Education & Future — educational technologies and teaching materials; • Baby Care & Safety — baby care products and safety systems; • Play & Development — educational games and multimedia content; • Living & Space — furniture and design solutions for children's rooms; • Sport, Health & Leisure — sports and wellness products. The programme combines the exhibition with networking, B2B negotiations, presentations and interactive workshops. Visa and logistical support, technical support for stands and the organisation of business meetings are provided for foreign participants.
Golf courses are planned for construction in the cities of Arkadag and Awaza
22.02.2026Golf courses are planned to be built in the city of Arkadag and the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone on the Caspian Sea coast. This was reported by the state news agency TDH following a meeting between the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov and President of ‘Nicklaus Companies’ John Reese during a visit to the United States. Two courses are planned for Awaza: a training course and a tournament course, designed to host international competitions. Another golf course will be built in the city of Arkadag. The project documentation for both facilities is currently being developed. ‘Nicklaus Companies’ has implemented more than 450 golf projects in the United States and other countries over more than 50 years. In Turkmenistan, the first golf club opened in Ashgabat in 2017, and in 2022, a Memorandum was signed on the construction of a golf club in the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone.
The film ‘The Composer’ has been honoured with international awards from TURKSOY
22.02.2026On 21 February, a ceremony was held at the ‘Ashgabat’ cinema in the capital to award the feature film ‘The Composer’ with special prizes from the international organisation TURKSOY. The film was created with the support of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship, reports TDH. Before the ceremony began, guests viewed an exhibition in the cinema foyer telling the story of Turkmen cinema. The exhibition included technical equipment from different eras, cameras, lighting equipment, as well as a collection of national film prizes and awards. The new international awards for the film ‘The Composer’ have been added to this honourable gallery. According to the organisers, the Days of Turkmen Cinema were held in Ankara on 15–18 February 2026 with the support of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov. On 17 February, the film ‘The Composer’ was screened at the Yashar Kemal Cultural Centre, after which it received two international awards from TURKSOY: The Charitable Foundation was awarded the ‘Grand Winged Falcon’ prize, and composer Kerim Berdimuhamedov received the ‘Winged Golden Steed’ award for his musical score. During the ceremony, the importance of the comprehensive support for cinema by the National Leader of the Turkmen people and President of the country, attention to public screenings of national films, the holding of film festivals and the participation of Turkmen specialists in international events was emphasised. The film ‘The Composer’ has previously been recognised at international film festivals: in 2024, at the IV International Film Festival ‘Gorkut ata’ in Turkmenistan, the film received the Special Jury Prize and the award for ‘Best Actress’, and in 2025 in Moscow, it received the Open Eurasian Film Award ‘Diamond Butterfly’ for its artistic design.
Representatives of Turkmenistan participated in the OSCE PA meeting on Central Asia
22.02.2026On 20 February, members of the Turkmenistan Mejlis took part in a meeting in Vienna organised by Angelos Syrigos, Special Representative of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) for Central Asia, with parliamentary delegations from Central Asian countries. This was reported by the press service of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan. During the meeting, the Turkmen delegation emphasised the importance of the country's initiative, announced at the UN General Assembly, to declare 2028 the ‘Year of International Law,’ and noted that the plan of events for 2026 includes international conferences and forums in Ashgabat dedicated to strengthening the legal foundations of global security and preventive diplomacy. It was noted that Turkmenistan is currently paying special attention to cooperation with the OSCE in areas such as ensuring peace, security and sustainable development, including the achievement of environmental well-being, the development of civil society, democratic institutions, media freedom, ensuring gender equality, increasing youth participation and realising their right to education. During the meeting, participants also exchanged views on the work being done in their countries to combat climate change. They shared their experiences and practices in strengthening the legislative and legal framework for efforts to ensure environmental well-being, environmental protection and conservation, as well as in supporting government policy in this area through parliamentary diplomacy.
The IIR of the MFA of Turkmenistan has become a platform for an international diplomatic forum
22.02.2026On 20 February, the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan hosted an international conference dedicated to the Day of Diplomatic Workers of the country. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. A thematic exhibition dedicated to the professional holiday was set up in the foyer of the institute. The exhibition was designed in an equestrian style, in keeping with the motto for 2026 in Turkmenistan. The event was attended by leaders, employees and veterans of the diplomatic service, heads and representatives of diplomatic missions and international organisations accredited in the country, professors, teachers and students of universities, as well as representatives of public associations and the media. The conference participants listened with particular attention to the Address of the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, on the occasion of the professional holiday. The document reaffirmed the country's unwavering commitment to the principles of permanent neutrality, equality and good-neighbourliness. It noted that the threefold recognition of neutrality by UN General Assembly resolutions, the activities of the UN Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia in Ashgabat, and the proclamation of 2025 as the International Year of Peace and Trust testify to Turkmenistan's high international authority and its contribution to strengthening global peace and cooperation. During the conference, speeches were made by Rashid Meredov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan; Kaha Imnadze, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General and Head of the UN Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia; Dmitry Shlapachenko, UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan; Arsen Avagyan, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Armenia to Turkmenistan, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland to Turkmenistan Stephen Conlon, and Head of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development Office in Turkmenistan Eric Livny. In his speech, Rashid Meredov emphasised that Turkmenistan's foreign policy, based on the principles of permanent neutrality, is aimed at forming a sustainable and fair system of international cooperation. The country's active role in promoting the agenda of energy and transport interconnectivity, environmental diplomacy and strengthening international law with the support of the central role of the UN was noted. The forum participants noted the growing importance of Turkmen diplomacy in the context of globalisation, emphasising its contribution to strengthening peace, trust and mutually beneficial cooperation. It was noted that, with the support of the Head of State, the material and technical base of the diplomatic service is being consistently improved, its infrastructure is being modernised and its human resources are being expanded. Following the conference, an appeal was made to the President of Turkmenistan, expressing gratitude for his constant attention to the development of the diplomatic service and confirming the readiness to conscientiously fulfil the tasks of protecting national interests and strengthening the country's international authority. In a solemn atmosphere, young employees of the diplomatic service and graduating students of the IMO of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan were awarded diplomas from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for their active participation in the implementation of the state's foreign policy strategy.
Turkmenistan and the OSCE discussed prospects for cooperation in the field of migration
20.02.2026On 19 February, the State Migration Service of Turkmenistan held a working meeting with Andrei Iovu, an expert from the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The parties discussed projects and initiatives implemented by Turkmenistan in cooperation with the OSCE, as well as prospects for expanding bilateral cooperation. During the talks, the interlocutors exchanged views on the potential for cooperation in the field of migration, identifying key and priority areas for further joint work. Following the meeting, both sides expressed their mutual conviction in continuing constructive and sustainable cooperation, the source notes.
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