Society
The Ambassador of Turkmenistan attended a reception hosted by the Flemish government
03.02.2026Sapar Palvanov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to the Kingdom of Belgium, attended a New Year's reception for the diplomatic corps organised by the Flemish government on behalf of Matthias Diependaele, Minister-President of Flanders. This was reported by Turkmenportal with reference to the Embassy's social media page. During the event, the Ambassador congratulated Julie Bynens, Secretary General of the Flemish government, on the New Year and held brief negotiations with her. The reception provided a platform for informal communication between representatives of the diplomatic corps. It should be noted that Sapar Palvanov is also the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg.
Turkmenistan develops rare element extraction using ion exchange technologies
03.02.2026Interest in ion exchange technologies, which enable valuable elements to be effectively extracted from natural waters and brines, is growing in Turkmenistan. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. These methods are widely used around the world and are considered promising for the development of the country's export-oriented chemical industry. Ion exchange technologies use sorbents that selectively capture the desired elements. They are used to purify water and gases, as well as to obtain rare and scattered elements of high purity. The extraction of iodine from mineralised groundwater is of particular importance for Turkmenistan. This method allows up to 99% of iodine to be extracted, is environmentally friendly and allows for the repeated use of sorbents. In addition to iodine, the technology is suitable for obtaining bromine, magnesium, lithium, strontium, boron and other elements from oil and gas field waters, which are considered a strategic resource for high-tech industries. The main sources of raw materials are the Garabogaz Bay and the groundwater of the Balkan velayat. Their comprehensive processing can ensure the sustainable development of Turkmenistan's chemical industry and strengthen the country's position in the global market for rare elements.
Ashgabat celebrates the success of the ‘Galkynysh’ group at the Monte Carlo festival
03.02.2026The State Circus of Turkmenistan hosted a solemn celebration of the ‘Galkynysh’ national equestrian games group of the Ahal-Teke Horse Complex of the President of Turkmenistan. The event was dedicated to the international recognition of the group at the 48th Monte Carlo Circus Festival, according to Turkmenportal, citing the ‘Watan’ news programme. The Turkmen delegation participated as guests of honour at the prestigious forum in the Principality of Monaco. At the end of the festival, ‘Galkynysh’ received international certificates from the World Circus Federation and the European Circus Association for its contribution to the development of world circus art. The celebrations began in the city of Arkadag and continued in Ashgabat. In the building of the International Horse Breeding Association and the International Association of Turkmen Alabay dogs, the artists viewed the museum exhibits, after which they proceeded in a festive procession to the State Circus. At the solemn meeting, issues related to the popularisation of Turkmen Ahal-Teke horses and the expansion of their international fame were discussed. The ceremony became an important event of the year, which in Turkmenistan is held under the motto ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’.
Turkmen schoolchildren presented their paintings at an exhibition in Tokyo
02.02.2026Twenty-six young talents from Turkmenistan presented their works at the ‘Art Beyond Boundaries’ school art exhibition, which took place from 22 January to 1 February in Tokyo. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The works of Turkmen artists were presented on the country's thematic wall. The exhibition was organised by the ‘Japan-Eurasia’ Society in conjunction with the SUMI International Association. In addition, on 31 January, a ceremony was held at the Tokyo National Art Centre to present certificates of appreciation to the participants of the exhibition. The event was attended by representatives of foreign embassies in Japan, leaders of the ‘Japan-Eurasia’ Society, the SUMI International Association, artists and guests of the exhibition. At the end of the ceremony, all participants received certificates of appreciation.
Turkmenistan announces international film competition on horse breeding
01.02.2026Turkmenistan has announced an interstate television competition for CIS countries entitled ‘The Flight of the Horse: Strength and Grace’, dedicated to the role of horses in the history and culture of the region’s peoples. This was reported by IIC. The choice of theme is linked to the Ahal-Teke breed, one of the oldest in the world, bred by the Turkmen people more than five thousand years ago and which has become a symbol of the country's national identity. The Ahal-Teke occupies a special place in the history, culture and state symbolism of Turkmenistan and embodies the independence and dignity of the people. In 2026, this theme is also reflected in the country's official motto. The development of horse breeding remains a priority of state policy: racetracks are being built in the country, scientific and educational facilities are being developed, and international cooperation is expanding. The competition is aimed at authors from CIS countries, which is logical in the year of Turkmenistan's chairmanship of the Commonwealth and its commitment to strengthening humanitarian and cultural ties. Television companies and independent authors of any age can participate. Films lasting 15-30 minutes in any language with subtitles in Russian or English, dedicated to the history of horse breeds, their cultural role and equestrian sports, are accepted.
Turkmen freight locomotives repaired in China
31.01.2026The ‘Demirýollary’ Joint Stock Company of the Ministry of Rail Transport of Turkmenistan has signed a contract with the Chinese locomotive manufacturer ‘CRRC Ziyang Co., Ltd.’ for the overhaul of freight locomotives, according to TerraNews. Under the agreement, 20 freight locomotives were overhauled at the factory in China. After delivery to Turkmenistan, the equipment was put into operation and is being used for transit, export and import transportation. The locomotives are equipped with modern equipment, which has improved their traction characteristics and operational capabilities, enabling the transport of large volumes of cargo over long distances.
A project for the ‘Serahs–Mary–Serhetabat’ motorway has been presented in Turkmenistan
31.01.2026The ‘Ojar Aziya’ holding company is proposing to implement an investment infrastructure project to build the ‘Serahs–Mary–Serhetabat’ expressway, approximately 450 km long, with access roads approximately 35 km long. This was reported by the online publication ‘Business Turkmenistan’. The route will pass through the Ahal and Mary velayats and will become a link between the ‘North-South’, ‘Lapis Lazuli’ and ‘East-West’ international corridors, strengthening Turkmenistan's transit and logistics potential. The project is expected to be implemented without budgetary funds, on a commercial basis with paid operation. The motorway is expected to ensure the growth of transit flows, the development of logistics and service infrastructure, the creation of jobs and the expansion of international trade relations.
Ashgabat to host IFT 2026 international investment forum
30.01.2026On 18 March 2026, Ashgabat will host the International Forum ‘Investing in the Future of Turkmenistan’ (IFT 2026). The organisers are the Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs in partnership with TMT Consulting Group, according to the state news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. According to the official calendar, the forum will open a series of international business events in the country. It will also feature a multidisciplinary exhibition dedicated to the 18th anniversary of the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs. The organisers say that IFT 2026 will be a platform for dialogue between business representatives, investors and financial institutions. Participants will discuss prospects for cooperation and investment projects. The agenda for IFT 2026 includes issues related to industry, logistics, transport, agribusiness, digital technologies and attracting foreign direct investment. A separate section will be devoted to presentations of investment projects by national companies. Delegations from Europe, Asia, the Middle East and North America are expected to attend. The forum will take the form of plenary sessions, expert panels and business negotiations.
The Embassy of Turkmenistan in the PRC hosted a presentation of a book on neutrality
30.01.2026On 28 January, the Embassy of Turkmenistan in the People's Republic of China hosted a presentation of the book by the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, entitled ‘Neutrality of Turkmenistan – A Bright Way of Peace and Trust’. The event was timed to coincide with the announcement of 2026 as the year of ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’ and the 30th anniversary of the country's Permanent Neutrality, according to the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The event was attended by embassy staff, the Secretary General of the Horse Breeding Association of the People's Republic of China, representatives of the Turkmen-Chinese Cultural Centre, journalists from Psearcher and Lookwe, teachers from Beijing universities and Turkmen students. The Ambassador of Turkmenistan to the PRC, Parahat Durdyev, delivered the opening remarks. He spoke about the theme of 2026 and presented the main provisions of the book by the Head of State. The participants noted the scientific, political and practical significance of the publication, which examines the historical foundations of Turkmenistan's neutrality and its role in international law and world politics. In conclusion, Wei Huakai, a specialist at the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences and Inner Mongolia University, received a certificate of membership in the International Association of Turkmen Alabay dogs.
Approximately 200,000 citizens of Turkmenistan visited Turkey in 2025
30.01.2026In 2025, approximately 200,000 citizens of Turkmenistan visited Turkey. This was announced on 28 January at a press conference in Ashgabat by Ahmet Demirok, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkey to Turkmenistan, according to the news website Asmannews. According to information from the Turkish embassy, approximately 120,000 visas were issued to Turkmen citizens during this period. The Diplomat noted the importance of cultural cooperation in the development of bilateral relations. According to A. Demirok, there is still a high level of interest in Turkish culture in Turkmenistan, which contributes to the strengthening of humanitarian ties between the two countries. In addition, there are plans to open a Turkish cultural centre named after Yunus Emre in Ashgabat in 2026. Similar centres are already operating in many countries around the world.
A new UNICEF country programme has been launched in Turkmenistan
30.01.2026UNICEF, in collaboration with the government of Turkmenistan, has officially launched a Country Programme for 2026–2030 aimed at ensuring the health, education, protection and well-being of every child. This was reported by the IIC. The programme was presented with the participation of representatives of state bodies, civil society, international partners and children. The new programme is based on national development priorities, the National Action Plan for Realisation of Children's Rights and the Sustainable Development Goals. Its key areas are health and nutrition for mothers and children, inclusive and quality education, protection of children from violence, development of data-driven social policy, and improving climate resilience and risk preparedness. The event also summarised the results of the 2021–2025 Programme. The results include high levels of child immunisation (over 95%), improved nutrition through flour fortification, expanded early development services, support for families and children with disabilities, the development of alternative forms of care, and the implementation of climate initiatives, including the ‘Green School’ project. The 2026-2030 Programme will be implemented under the leadership of the government of Turkmenistan with a focus on reducing inequality, scaling up effective solutions and strengthening national systems with the support of UNICEF and partners.
The city of Arkadag celebrated the international recognition of the ‘Galkynysh’ group
29.01.2026The ‘Galkynysh’ National Equestrian Games Group of the Ahal-Teke Equestrian Complex of the President of Turkmenistan has been awarded international certificates from the World Circus Federation and the European Circus Association. The awards were presented at the 48th International Circus Festival in Monte Carlo (Principality of Monaco). This was reported by the state news agency TDH. In Turkmenistan, a solemn event was held in the city of Arkadag to mark the occasion. Riders from the ‘Galkynysh’ group took part in a procession along Geokdepe and Akhan avenues on Ahal-Teke horses and in a phaeton. The column proceeded to the State Equestrian Circus named after Gorogly. At the ‘Taýçanak’ monument, the participants continued their route along Ahal-Teke Atlary, Akhan and Aba Annayev avenues. The procession was accompanied by musical performances. Along the way, it was greeted by residents and students with flags. An exhibition was organised in the circus foyer. The exhibition featured works of applied art, photographs, elements of horse harness, as well as prizes and awards from the ‘Galkynysh’ group. The official part took place in the auditorium. International certificates were placed on the stage. The participants of the event gave their congratulations. Urs Pilz, Artistic Director and Vice-President of the International Circus Festival, addressed the audience via video link. He noted the contribution of the ‘Galkynysh’ group and thanked them for participating in the festival in Monte Carlo. The programme concluded with a performance by the ‘Galkynysh’ National Equestrian Games Group in the circus arena. At the end of the event, an appeal was made to President Serdar Berdimuhamedov.
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