Society
The folk calendar links the arrival of ‘Yaldyrak’ to the end of the summer heat
13.08.2026According to the Turkmen folk calendar, from 12 August, ‘Yaldyrak’ — Sirius, the brightest star in the constellation Canis Major — can be seen in the east before dawn. This is reported by the news website Turkmenportal, citing the newspaper ‘Turkmenistan’. The appearance of ‘Yaldyrak’ is associated with the end of the intense summer heat and the gradual onset of cooler weather. Dew forms in the evenings, and the daytime heat gives way to cooler air. ‘Yaldyrak’ got its name due to its brightness. According to the folk calendar, the star can be seen in this part of the sky until 22 September. From 23 September, it is replaced by the constellation ‘Mizan’ — Libra, which corresponds to the autumnal equinox, when the length of day and night are roughly equal. The warm period between the appearance of ‘Yaldyrak’ and the arrival of ‘Mizan’ coincides with the formation of cotton fibre in the bolls. According to folk observations, the moderately warm weather during this period helps to improve the quality of the cotton.
The Uzbek Ambassador to Turkmenistan addressed a conference marking Caspian Day
13.08.2026Speaking at the scientific and practical conference ‘Protection of the Caspian Sea Ecosystem: Regional Cooperation and Sustainable Development’, the Uzbek Ambassador to Turkmenistan stated that environmental diplomacy in the region is reaching a systematic and trust-based level. According to him, the Caspian region is becoming a key factor in interconnectedness and sustainable development, reports IIC. The Ambassador noted that Uzbekistan is committed to ensuring the prosperity and sustainable development of the Caspian Basin. The diplomat emphasised the need for joint action to tackle climate challenges. Temperatures in Central Asia are rising twice as fast as the global average. At the same time, water shortages are worsening, and land degradation has affected more than 80 million hectares. According to the Ambassador, the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, considers it essential to adopt new approaches based on solidarity, practical action, structural reforms and the pooling of resources.
Turkmenistan continues its environmental efforts to protect the Caspian Sea
13.08.2026Ovezgeldi Goshjanov, Minister of Environmental Protection of Turkmenistan, highlighted the consistent implementation of the country’s environmental policy at the conference ‘Protecting the Caspian Sea Ecosystem: Regional Cooperation and Sustainable Development’. This was reported by IIC of Turkmenistan. According to him, the main priorities remain the development of a ‘green’ economy, the introduction of environmentally friendly technologies, the protection of biodiversity and the assurance of environmental safety. Turkmenistan is also strengthening trade, economic and humanitarian ties in the Caspian region and putting forward international initiatives to protect the sea’s ecosystem. The Minister for Environmental Protection of Turkmenistan recalled that the first Caspian Summit took place in Ashgabat in 2002, the first Caspian Environmental Forum in ‘Awaza’ in 2012, the first Caspian Economic Forum in 2019, and the sixth Caspian Summit on 29 June 2022. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the entry into force of the Tehran Convention, which was signed in 2003 and came into force on 12 August 2006. O. Goshjanov also highlighted the risks associated with climate change and fluctuations in the water level of the Caspian Sea. The Minister for the Environment recalled the proposal by the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, to promote the Caspian Environmental Initiative and to hold the Caspian Environmental Forum in 2026. According to O. Goshjanov, the implementation of the initiative will enable the Caspian states to join forces to ensure the region’s environmental well-being.
Friendly beach volleyball and football matches between diplomats were held at ‘Awaza’
13.08.2026Friendly beach volleyball and football matches were held in the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone, involving diplomats accredited to Turkmenistan, representatives of international organisations and staff from the Ministry of Environmental Protection. This was reported by IIC of Turkmenistan. The sporting events took place as part of the celebrations for Caspian Sea Day and coincided with the start of the international conference ‘Protection of the Caspian Sea Ecosystem: Regional Cooperation and Sustainable Development’, which opened in ‘Awaza’ on 12 August. The matches took place in a friendly atmosphere and served as a platform for sporting and environmental interaction among the participants.
A conference on the protection of the Caspian ecosystem has begun in Turkmenistan
13.08.2026A scientific and practical conference entitled ‘Protection of the Caspian Sea Ecosystem: Regional Cooperation and Sustainable Development’, held to mark Caspian Sea Day, has begun at the ‘Berkarar’ Hotel in the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. The forum is being attended by specialists, environmentalists, experts and representatives of international organisations. They are discussing issues relating to the conservation of the Caspian Sea ecosystem, the protection of biodiversity, the prevention of pollution and adaptation to climate change. The conference opened with the reading of a welcome address from the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov. The message was read out by Foreign Affairs Minister Rashid Meredov. The message highlighted the importance of strengthening inter-state cooperation, implementing the Caspian Environmental Initiative and ensuring the region’s sustainable development. Conference participants are considering joint approaches to environmental protection, the development of scientific research and the conservation of the Caspian Sea’s natural potential.
The MFA of Malaysia discussed cooperation with Turkmenistan with PETRONAS
12.08.2026On 10 August 2026, Dato' Syed Mohamad Hasrin Tengku Hussin, Deputy Secretary-General for Bilateral Affairs at the Malaysian Foreign Affairs Ministry, received Ismadi Ismail, Managing Director of PETRONAS Carigali (Turkmenistan) Sdn. Bhd. (PC(T)SB), on a courtesy visit. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The parties discussed PETRONAS’s main areas of activity in Turkmenistan, as well as the progress made in implementing bilateral agreements in the oil and gas sector, which were reached during the Malaysian Prime Minister’s official visit to Turkmenistan. Particular attention was paid to the participation of Malaysian companies in the 31st International Exhibition and Conference ‘Oil and Gas of Turkmenistan’ (OGT 2026).
Turkmenistan and ASEAN: The Malaysian Embassy as a bridge between the regions
12.08.2026The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has marked the 59th anniversary of its founding. The group, established on 8 August 1967 by five member states, now comprises 11 countries with a combined population of around 700 million people. The Philippines, which holds the chairmanship in 2026, is marking the year under the motto ‘Navigating Our Future, Together’, with a focus on strengthening security, expanding economic corridors and promoting integration, reports the news agency Orient. The celebrations coincided with the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia, signed in Bali in 1976. The principles of mutual respect for sovereignty, non-interference in internal affairs and the peaceful settlement of disputes have transformed the treaty from a regional document into an international platform for dialogue. Malaysia has traditionally regarded ASEAN as the cornerstone of its foreign policy. The culmination of Malaysia’s recent chairmanship of the organisation was the adoption of the Kuala Lumpur Declaration ‘ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future’, which set out the framework for the bloc’s development up to 2045. In the economic sphere, ASEAN aims to become one of the world’s four largest economies by 2030; this is set to be facilitated by the conclusion of negotiations on the Framework Agreement on the Digital Economy, which is scheduled to be signed at the end of 2026. Speaking at a ceremony in Putrajaya, Malaysia’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Dato’ Seri Mohamad Hasan, emphasised that, amidst competition between major powers, ASEAN must maintain its central role and autonomy. The Malaysian Embassy in Ashgabat remains the only permanent diplomatic mission of an ASEAN member state in Turkmenistan. The diplomatic mission serves as a channel for communication and information on the bloc’s opportunities for Turkmenistan’s government bodies, business circles and academic communities. The Malaysian diplomatic mission notes Turkmenistan’s growing interest in developing ties with South-East Asia, highlighting trade and investment, transport infrastructure, energy, education, tourism, digitalisation and cultural and humanitarian exchanges as promising areas for cooperation. Deepening this dialogue is intended to build lasting bridges between Central and South-East Asia.
The EU Delegation to Turkmenistan organised a ‘Back to School’ campaign
12.08.2026The Delegation of the European Union to Turkmenistan, in collaboration with the non-governmental organisation ‘Ýeňme’ and the Turkmenistan Centre for the Support of People with Disabilities, organised a ‘Back to School’ charity campaign. This was reported by the Orient news agency. The initiative is now in its fifth consecutive year and aims to support children with disabilities and those from socially vulnerable families ahead of the new school year. As part of the event, EU Ambassador Beata Peksa and staff from the diplomatic mission met with the children and presented them with school rucksacks containing essential school supplies. An interactive programme featuring games, music and competitions was also organised for the participants. ‘Always be curious, ask lots of questions, and never stop learning,’ said Beata Peksa. The EU Delegation to Turkmenistan continues to support inclusive education, equal opportunities for children and the activities of local civil society organisations.
An OSCE course on inspection methods has concluded in Ashgabat
12.08.2026A five-day training course on risk analysis and screening methods at international airports, organised by the OSCE Centre in collaboration with the Turkish International Academy against Smuggling and Organised Crime (TADOC), has concluded in Ashgabat. This was reported by the Orient news agency. Twenty representatives from the Transport Police of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the State Border Service, the State Customs Service and the Aviation Security Service of the ‘Türkmenhowaýollary’ agency took part in the training. TADOC experts familiarised the specialists with modern methods of detecting contraband, assessing risks when analysing flights, passengers, cargo and luggage, as well as identifying suspicious behaviour and conducting interviews. Particular attention was paid to checking travel documents and identifying methods used to conceal narcotic substances. The practical session took place at Ashgabat International Airport, where participants practised search and inspection techniques in real-life conditions. William Leaf, Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat, noted that the course reflects the practical implementation of the provisions of the Tirana Declaration on strengthening cooperation in the fight against transnational organised crime.
Turkmenistan and Afghanistan have agreed on gas supplies to Herat Province
12.08.2026The state-owned concern ‘Türkmengaz’ and Afghanistan’s state-owned corporation ‘Afghan Gas’ have signed a Memorandum of Understanding in the gas sector. This was reported by the online publication ‘Business Turkmenistan’. According to the document, the parties have agreed to collaborate on the development of relevant infrastructure in Herat Province, as well as on the supply of Turkmen gas to industrial enterprises, power stations and the general public. The signing ceremony took place during a working visit to Afghanistan by the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. During the visit, the parties also discussed the progress of construction of the ‘Turkmenistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan–India’ (TAPI) gas pipeline, the potential of the ‘Lapis Lazuli’ corridor and other international transport corridors. The significant role of the Turkmenbashi International Seaport in realising the region’s transport and logistics potential was also highlighted.
The international exhibition ‘Kids Expo: Everything for Children’ is set to open in Ashgabat
12.08.2026The ‘Kids Expo: Everything for Children’ international trade fair is set to open in Ashgabat shortly. More than 100 exhibitors, including local and international companies, will take part in the event, according to the news website Turkmenportal. Among the participants already registered are: - the Russian companies ‘Vertera’ (healthy food for children), ‘ROXY-KIDS’ (products for newborns), ‘Splat’ (oral care products) and ‘Uvelka’ (ready-made breakfasts); - the Turkish company ‘Wee Baby’ (products for newborns); - German companies ‘Sanosan’ (cosmetics for babies, children and mothers) and ‘VARTA’ (household batteries); - the Japanese company ‘Omo-Oso’ (hypoallergenic nappies); - Iranian companies ‘Kalleh’ (dairy products), ‘Port de Kalleh’ and ‘Sorima’ (yoghurt production). The French Institute in Turkmenistan, the Italian Embassy, the Cultural Centre of the Iranian Embassy in Turkmenistan, the American Centre in Turkmenistan, UNICEF and other international organisations will also be presenting their stands at the exhibition.
The Turkmenistan Ambassador to Japan paid tribute to the victims of Hiroshima and Nagasaki
12.08.2026The Embassy of Turkmenistan in Japan took part in commemorative ceremonies in Hiroshima and Nagasaki to mark the 81st anniversary of the atomic bombings of those cities. The events took place on 6 and 9 August 2026, according to the news website Turkmenportal. The ceremonies were attended by the Prime Minister of Japan, the Speaker of the Upper House of Parliament, members of the Cabinet, and Heads of diplomatic missions accredited to the country. In their speeches, the Japanese side emphasised the importance of preventing the use of nuclear weapons and continuing international efforts towards nuclear disarmament and the strengthening of peace. A. Bayramov, the Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Japan, laid flowers at the memorials to the victims of the bombings and paid tribute to those who lost their lives. During the visit, the Turkmen diplomat held meetings with the leadership of the cities and prefectures of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, outlining to the Japanese side the main principles of Turkmenistan’s foreign policy — permanent neutrality, a commitment to peace and a dedication to dialogue. It was also noted that the UN General Assembly resolution, adopted on Turkmenistan’s initiative, declaring 2028 the ‘International Year of International Law’, served as further confirmation of the country’s commitment to strengthening international legal norms.
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