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Turkmen climbers hoisted the flag on the summit of Annapurna
16.05.2026Employees of the Group of Service Enterprises “Morinjgeology” successfully climbed Annapurna (8,091 m) in Nepal. The expedition was dedicated to the Constitution Day and State Flag Day of Turkmenistan, reports the publication “Turkmenistan: Golden Age”. At the summit, the climbers unfurled the State Flag of Turkmenistan. Annapurna is the tenth highest peak in the world. The mountain is known for difficult weather conditions and a high risk of avalanches. The massif includes 16 peaks over 6,000 meters and is located near the Kali Gandaki Valley. The ascent added to the expedition record of the “Morinjgeology” team. Previously, its members have climbed Everest, K2 (Chogori), Manaslu, Aconcagua, Ama Dablam, Kilimanjaro, Ararat, Mont Blanc, and Matterhorn. On each summit, they installed the State Flag of Turkmenistan. The Group of Service Enterprises “Morinjgeology” operates in the energy sector. The company carries out geophysical and engineering-geological work in the “Cheleken” area under contract with Dragon Oil (Turkmenistan) Ltd. and cooperates with Petronas Carigali (Turkmenistan) Sdn Bhd in the Contract Area “Block-I”. It also works with PJSC “LUKOIL”, JSC NC “KazMunayGas”, SOCAR, and other international partners.
Conference in Bishkek brought together Turkmenistan researchers
16.05.2026On May 14, the international conference “Turkmenistan: Language, Literature, History and Culture” was held at J. Balasagyn Kyrgyz National University. The event was dedicated to the year “Independent, permanently neutral Turkmenistan — the homeland of determined winged horses.” This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. Faculty members and students of the university took part in the conference. Representatives of Turkmen State University named after Magtymguly, as well as universities from Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Azerbaijan, and Türkiye, joined via video link. Participants noted the significance of the 2026 motto. According to them, it reflects the principles of Turkmenistan’s state policy—neutrality, peace, and national unity—as well as its course toward development and strengthening its international position. Representatives of Turkmen State University named after Magtymguly presented reports on language, culture, and traditions. Special attention was paid to the country’s achievements in political, economic, social, and cultural spheres, as well as the historical heritage of the Turkmen people.
Turkmenistan has high potential for tourist railway routes
16.05.2026The development of tourist railway routes in Turkmenistan has significant potential, said Sergey Pavlov, First Deputy Head of Russian Railways (RZD). This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. According to him, the country’s historical and geographical position—connecting the “North–South” and “East–West” corridors—creates strong opportunities for expanding such projects and generates sustained interest in them. The statement was made in Ashgabat on the sidelines of the 84th meeting of the Council for Railway Transport of CIS member states. The previous meeting was held in Baku. In 2026, Turkmenistan assumed the CIS chairmanship from Tajikistan and now coordinates the work of a number of key intergovernmental councils and economic structures within the organization.
The Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan discussed cooperation with the Asian Development Bank within the framework of CAREC
16.05.2026A working meeting was held at the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan with representatives of the Asian Development Bank, where the implementation of initiatives under the CAREC program was discussed, as well as the integration of “green” skills and principles of a just transition into the education system. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan. The parties also considered prospects for further cooperation. The ADB presented plans to develop environmental competencies in vocational and higher education, strengthen institutional capacity, and align these measures with the goals of the nationally determined contribution under the Paris Agreement. Particular attention was paid to cooperation with educational institutions and the business community to develop skills in demand on the labor market. The participation of specialized universities and the training of teachers in “green” topics were also discussed. The parties noted successful cooperation with the Turkmen Agricultural University and the development of projects in the field of agricultural “green” technologies. Deputy Minister of Education of Turkmenistan Azat Ataev emphasized the connection between the initiatives and the state strategy, including the development of digital solutions in education and the idea of creating a regional climate technology center. ADB representatives positively assessed these steps and outlined the potential for expanding cooperation in the areas of digitalization, training personnel for the knowledge economy, and the tourism sector. Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their readiness to further develop the partnership within the framework of CAREC projects.
Turkmen students took part in a youth festival in Beijing
15.05.2026On May 14 in Beijing, the opening ceremony of the 22nd International Youth Cultural Festival was held at Chengxin Square of the University of International Business and Economics (UIBE) under the motto “Lead the Tide, Embrace the World.” Turkmen students studying at the university, with the support of the Embassy of Turkmenistan in the PRC, took part in the event and presented their national culture, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. As part of the festival, a national pavilion of Turkmenistan was organized and prepared by Turkmen students. The exhibition showcased the country’s culture and traditions and became part of the international student platform. The pavilion was visited by diplomats, representatives of various organizations, and international students. The program also included artistic performances. Students presented traditional dances and showcased elements of Turkmen culture and national cuisine. Separately, it was noted that Turkmen students participated on the eve of the festival in the Symposium on High-Quality Development of Higher Energy Education within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative, held at China University of Petroleum. Participation in these events formed part of Turkmenistan’s international student engagement and is aimed at strengthening humanitarian ties and promoting intercultural exchange.
Turkmenistan strengthens maritime transport with the launch of “Gadamly”
14.05.2026On May 12, a ceremony was held at the Baku International Sea Port to welcome the cargo vessel “Gadamly” — the first ship of its class built in Turkmenistan, according to the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The event was attended by the Ambassador of Turkmenistan to the Republic of Azerbaijan, G. Elyasov, representatives of transport and logistics organizations of both countries, and heads of relevant government agencies. It was noted that the commissioning of the vessel reflects the development of Turkmenistan’s shipbuilding industry and the growth of its industrial capacity. The project’s role in strengthening trade and economic ties in the Caspian region was also emphasized. Representatives of Baku International Sea Port LLC and Azerbaijan Railways CJSC highlighted the importance of expanding cooperation in the transport sector. The role of the Caspian region in the system of international East–West transport routes was also underlined. Participants expressed confidence that the operation of the cargo vessel “Gadamly” will contribute to the development of maritime transport and further cooperation between Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan.
Turkmenistan is advancing the infrastructure agenda of the LLDCs
14.05.2026The Permanent Representative of Turkmenistan to the United Nations, Vepa Hajiyev, took part in a meeting of the group of landlocked developing countries (LLDCs) dedicated to the implementation of the Awaza Programme of Action. This was reported by the IIC. Participants discussed measures to develop transport connectivity, finance infrastructure, facilitate trade, and strengthen partnerships among LLDC member states. Turkmenistan, serving as co-chair of the Group of Friends of LLDCs, reaffirmed its support for the implementation of the programme and announced a planned meeting of national coordinators in Ashgabat on June 30 – July 2, 2026, in cooperation with the United Nations Office of the High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States (UN-OHRLLS).
South Korea is considering participation in projects to modernize Turkmenistan’s infrastructure
13.05.2026South Korean companies are exploring participation in the modernization of the Karakum Canal in Turkmenistan, according to the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Turkmenistan, Lee Won-jae, as reported by the online publication “Business Turkmenistan”. He said that South Korean businesses are also showing interest in upgrading railway infrastructure and establishing production facilities for fiber-optic cables and steel pipes in the country. Seoul aims to expand cooperation with Turkmenistan across several sectors, including energy, transport, IT, shipbuilding, healthcare, and culture. Promising areas include hydrogen-powered public transport, electric vehicle infrastructure, and autonomous driving technologies. In shipbuilding, the company Koryo Shipbuilding Industry Technology is already working with Turkmenistan’s Balkan plant on a project to build cargo ships, with potential expansion into railway ferries. Separately, the phosphorous fertilizer plant project in Turkmenabat, implemented by Daewoo Engineering & Construction, was highlighted as a foundation for further development of bilateral industrial cooperation.
An evening was held in Ashgabat to mark the 30th anniversary of the partnership between Turkmenistan and Petronas
13.05.2026A gala evening dedicated to the long-standing cooperation between Turkmenistan and the Malaysian energy company “Petronas” was held in Ashgabat. This was reported by the Orient news agency. The event brought together representatives of the government, the diplomatic corps, and the oil and gas industry, becoming a symbol of partnership and professional collaboration. The meeting was attended by Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan Guvanch Agadjanov and the leadership of the country’s oil and gas sector, as well as senior management of “Petronas,” including Group CEO Tan Sri Tengku Muhammad Taufik and representatives of the exploration and production division. During the event, the parties noted that over 30 years of cooperation, “Petronas” has become one of the key investors in the Caspian region, having invested about $11.7 billion in the economy of Turkmenistan. Special emphasis was placed on the transition of the partnership to a new stage — the introduction of innovative and environmentally friendly technologies. Significant attention was also given to the humanitarian aspect: more than 300 Turkmen students have studied at the Petronas University of Technology, contributing to the development of the national energy sector. A key outcome of the visit was the signing of a protocol on new terms for the development of licensed blocks 19 and 20 on the Caspian Sea shelf, confirming the further expansion of cooperation. The delegation also plans to visit Kiyanly to acknowledge the contribution of employees at production facilities to the overall success of the partnership.
“Çalık Enerji” becomes general partner of the “White City Ashgabat 2026” exhibition
13.05.2026The organizing committee of the 25th International Exhibition and Conference “White City Ashgabat 2026” has announced “Çalık Enerji” as the general partner of the event, which will take place in Ashgabat on May 24–25. This was reported by the IIC. The partnership reflects the growing importance of the forum as a regional platform for discussing infrastructure development, energy, and sustainable urban planning. “Çalık Enerji,” an international energy and infrastructure company that has implemented projects in a number of countries, is actively involved in the modernization of Turkmenistan’s energy system and the development of modern energy solutions. The conference is expected to bring together more than 400 participants from 40 countries, including representatives of government agencies, businesses, and international organizations, and will serve as a platform for discussing investment and technological projects in the fields of industry and urban development.
Turkmenistan and Cambodia are considering new tourist routes
12.05.2026Turkmenistan and Cambodia have discussed the possibility of launching direct flights between Ashgabat and major tourist destinations in Cambodia. This was reported by “Business Turkmenistan”. The issue was reviewed during a meeting between the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Akhmet Gurbanoв, and the Minister of Tourism of Cambodia, Huot Hak, in Phnom Penh. The sides examined potential routes including Ashgabat–Phnom Penh and Ashgabat–Siem Reap. Separately, the parties discussed expanding cooperation in the tourism sector. This included organizing familiarization trips for investors, media representatives, and tourism companies, as well as promoting the tourism potential of both countries. They also considered accelerating the preparation and signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the relevant agencies. Akhmet Gurbanov confirmed Turkmenistan’s interest in strengthening cooperation with Cambodia. He highlighted the country’s cultural and historical sites, which are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, as well as the potential for medical tourism. As part of the visit of the Turkmen delegation, meetings were held in Phnom Penh on May 8–9 with representatives of the Cambodian government and business community, including talks with the Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ith Sophhea, and the President of the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce, Kith Meng.
The Uzbek jockey was awarded a prize by the President of Turkmenistan
11.05.2026Winners of equestrian competitions held on 9–10 May in the Tashkent region of Uzbekistan, H. Khamitov, a representative of the “Uzbegim otlari” horse farm, and jockey Z. Kulmatov, received the keys to a modern car as a prize from the President of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. Previously, jockey P. Orazov and horse breeder K. Agamyradov of Turkmenistan were also awarded a car as a prize from the President of Uzbekistan. The participants expressed gratitude to the leaders of both countries for their support and their contribution to strengthening friendship, developing cultural and humanitarian cooperation, and fostering collaboration among specialized professionals. The recognition of Akhal-Teke horses as Asian champions became a significant event, strengthening bilateral relations and enhancing the international prestige of the breed as a symbol of friendship between peoples.
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