Policy
Serdar Berdimuhamedov and Shehbaz Sharif discussed bilateral relations
22.03.2026On 21 March, a telephone conversation took place between the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, and the Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif. The conversation took place at the initiative of the Pakistani side, according to TDH. The interlocutors exchanged greetings on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr and the International Day of Nowruz, and conveyed mutual greetings to the leadership and peoples of both countries. The Prime Minister of Pakistan conveyed to the President of Turkmenistan greetings from the President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Asif Ali Zardari, as well as best wishes. Special congratulations were addressed to the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Hero Arkadag. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov expressed his gratitude for the warm words and extended reciprocal greetings and congratulations to the leadership of Pakistan. During the conversation, the commitment to developing bilateral cooperation was reaffirmed. It was noted that cooperation covers the political-diplomatic, trade-economic, energy, transport and cultural-humanitarian spheres. The parties also noted the significance of the Prime Minister of Pakistan’s participation in the International Forum held in Ashgabat last December. Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif invited the President of Turkmenistan to pay a visit to Pakistan. The Head of State expressed his gratitude and confirmed his readiness to develop the partnership. At the conclusion of the conversation, the parties exchanged wishes for success in their state activities and prosperity for the peoples of both countries.
The first saplings have been planted in Arkadag as part of the spring campaign
22.03.2026The spring season of the nationwide tree-planting campaign kicked off in the city of Arkadag on 21 March. The event was attended by the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. This was reported by AsmanNews. Hero Arkadag arrived at the venue and planted a sapling, marking the start of the campaign. Afterwards, participants began planting trees. The campaign took place during the celebrations for International Nowruz Day. It was attended by representatives from various sectors and residents of the city. During the event, one of the young participants asked Hero Arkadag to launch the campaign. After planting the tree together, the boy was presented with a commemorative gift. A brief conversation also took place about his studies and hobbies. Tree-planting campaigns are held in the country on a regular basis — in spring and autumn. They are implemented as part of the state policy on environmental protection, the development of forest areas and the creation of a favourable ecological environment. During the event, Hero Arkadag was briefed on the work being carried out as part of the second phase of construction in the city of Arkadag, including measures to ensure environmental cleanliness and the improvement of the area.
President of Turkmenistan took part in a nationwide tree-planting campaign
22.03.2026A nationwide tree-planting campaign took place in Turkmenistan on 21 March, attended by President Serdar Berdimuhamedov. Across the country, 611,962 saplings were planted and 2,024,240 trees were tended to. This was reported by TDH. The Head of State launched the campaign by planting the first tree. After that, the participants in the event began planting. The campaign was attended by the Chairwoman of the Mejlis, Deputy Chairmen of the Cabinet of Ministers, heads of military and law enforcement agencies, ministries and departments, representatives of diplomatic missions and international organisations, as well as members of the public. The event took place as part of the implementation of the National Forest Programme, aimed at expanding forest areas and preserving biodiversity. Soil and climatic conditions were taken into account during the planting. Alongside the planting of new trees, work was carried out to maintain previously established forest areas, as well as to improve parks and other green spaces. Greening campaigns aimed at improving the environmental situation and promoting sustainable development are held regularly across the country. Upon completion of the event, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov left the venue.
Chinese connoisseurs of Ahal-Teke horses have been invited to Turkmenistan
21.03.2026The National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, has invited Chinese horse breeders and enthusiasts of Ahal-Teke horses to take part in the Turkmen Horse Festival. This was reported by TDH. The invitation was extended on behalf of the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, during a meeting with members of the International Ahal-Teke Horse Breeding Association and Chinese connoisseurs of Ahal-Teke horses in Beijing. The festival will take place on the last Sunday in April. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov also invited the guests to visit Turkmenistan in September for the celebrations marking the 35th anniversary of the country’s independence. The programme includes horse races, equestrian exhibitions and a scientific and practical conference, with the opportunity to join the International Association of Ahal-Teke Horse Breeding. An excursion dedicated to Ahal-Teke racehorses will be organised for participants in the town of Arkadag. The invitation also extends to the musicians of the ‘Equuleus’ ensemble, who performed national melodies on Chinese instruments.
Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov held a meeting with Chinese horse breeders
21.03.2026The National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, met with members of the International Ahal-Teke Horse Breeding Association and Chinese connoisseurs of Ahal-Teke horses during his visit to China, reports TDH. The meeting was opened by Wang Jian, founder of the ‘Equuleus’ complex, who expressed her gratitude for the visit. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov thanked Chinese President Xi Jinping for the invitation and highlighted the historical role of Ahal-Teke horses for Turkmenistan and China. He recalled that 12 years ago, Xi Jinping was presented with an Ahal-Teke horse as a symbol of friendship. During this visit, on behalf of the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, an Ahal-Teke horse named Gadyrly was presented to Xi Jinping. The Turkmen leader spoke about the country’s equestrian infrastructure: Arkadag is home to the International Equestrian Sports Complex and the Aba Annayev International Academy of Horse Breeding, where 420 students are enrolled. The ‘Galkynysh’ national equestrian games team is a six-time world champion. At the conclusion of the meeting, Yue Gaofeng, Secretary of the Chinese Horse Breeding Association, thanked Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov on behalf of all Chinese horse breeders. The participants took a joint commemorative photograph.
Hero Arkadag gave an interview to CGTN on cooperation between Turkmenistan and China
21.03.2026The National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, gave an interview to the Chinese television channel ‘CGTN’ during his visit to the People’s Republic of China. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. Prior to the recording, a conversation took place with the presenter, He Yanke. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of Turkmen-Chinese cooperation. Hero Arkadag also signed the channel’s guest book. The interview noted that relations between Turkmenistan and China have deep historical roots and are developing on the basis of trust and mutual support. The role of the strategic partnership, formalised by bilateral agreements, was emphasised. Key areas of cooperation include energy, transport, communications, high technology and the agro-industrial sector. China remains Turkmenistan’s largest trade and economic partner. Particular attention was paid to gas cooperation. Supplies via the ‘Turkmenistan–China’ gas pipeline continue on a consistent basis, and the parties are working to increase export volumes. The implementation of projects at the ‘Galkynysh’ field is noted. The development of transport corridors, including the ‘East–West’ route, and participation in international initiatives are also highlighted. In the humanitarian sphere, the focus is on educational and cultural exchanges. More than 10,000 citizens of Turkmenistan are studying in China, and Chinese is taught in educational institutions in Turkmenistan. Hero Arkadag reaffirmed Turkmenistan’s commitment to the principles of neutrality and the peaceful settlement of international issues. The role of the UN in maintaining stability was noted. In assessing the prospects for cooperation, it was emphasised that the partnership between Turkmenistan and China is geared towards long-term development and the expansion of cooperation across all areas.
Turkmenistan is launching a new phase in the development of the ‘Galkynysh’ field
21.03.2026The President of Turkmenistan has signed a Resolution aimed at increasing natural gas production. This was reported by the website AsmanNews. According to the document, the State Concern ‘Türkmengaz’ has been authorised to enter into a contract with ‘CNPC Amudarya Petroleum Company Ltd.’ of the People’s Republic of China. The contract concerns the design and turnkey construction of facilities as part of the development of the fourth phase of the ‘Galkynysh’ gas field. The project involves the construction of a facility to process 10 billion cubic metres of commercial gas per year, as well as the drilling of production wells to ensure this level of output. The document is aimed at fulfilling the objectives set for the country’s oil and gas sector.
Turkmenistan is marking the fourth anniversary of the Head of State's accession to office
20.03.2026A ceremonial event marking the fourth anniversary of Serdar Berdimuhamedov’s inauguration as President of Turkmenistan was held at the Centre for Public Organisations of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. The forum was attended by leaders of the Mejlis, members of the Halk Maslahaty, representatives of political parties, academics, students and honoured elders. A festive atmosphere was created by an exhibition showcasing achievements in national culture, decorative and applied arts, and literary works by the country’s leaders. Speakers highlighted the rapid economic development over the past four years, the construction of industrial facilities, residential complexes and educational institutions, as well as the successful implementation of the ‘smart’ city project in Arkadag as a centre for innovation and specialist training. Particular attention was paid to democratic reforms and the upcoming local and parliamentary elections on 29 March. The academic community and students emphasised the importance of the conditions created for intellectual development and international integration. The forum also highlighted the President’s role in strengthening Turkmenistan as a centre for peacemaking and in implementing the initiatives of the Year of Peace and Trust. The event concluded with performances by masters of the arts and People’s Artists, celebrating the country’s achievements.
Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov visited the ‘Equuleus’ equestrian centre in China
20.03.2026The National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, visited the ‘Equuleus’ international equestrian complex during his visit to the People’s Republic of China. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. He was met at the entrance by representatives of the Chinese Horse Breeding Association, the scientific community and the complex. The parties discussed the development of cooperation in the field of horse breeding and cultural and humanitarian ties between Turkmenistan and China. During the visit, the Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan was shown the complex’s facilities, a horse parade and performances by racehorses. He also familiarised himself with Ahal-Teke horses, which are bred in China using Turkmen traditions. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov visited an exhibition dedicated to the role of the Ahal-Teke horse in world culture and met with members of the International Ahal-Teke Horse Breeding Association and Chinese horse breeders. During the meeting, the significance of the Ahal-Teke breed as an element of cultural heritage and a symbol of Turkmen-Chinese cooperation was noted. The role of international cooperation in the development of horse breeding and the exchange of experience was emphasised. The National Leader of the Turkmen people invited the Chinese side to take part in events dedicated to the National Day of the Turkmen Horse and Turkmenistan’s Independence Day. At the conclusion of the visit, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov departed for Turkmenistan. He was met by officials at the capital’s International Airport. The visit to the People’s Republic of China reaffirmed the development of the strategic partnership between the two countries and the expansion of cooperation in various fields.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan held a meeting with the Chinese Foreign Minister
19.03.2026Turkmenistan has declared its support for four international initiatives proposed by China. This was announced by Rashid Meredov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan and the country’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, following a meeting with Wang Yi, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China, according to the online publication ‘Business Turkmenistan’. Ashgabat has also confirmed its readiness to actively participate in preparations for the third ‘China–Central’ Asia summit. Wang Yi, for his part, emphasised the importance of strengthening the traditionally friendly ties between the peoples of the two countries and the need to further deepen the comprehensive strategic partnership. He noted that the high level of trust between the leadership of Turkmenistan and China serves as a solid foundation for the sustainable development of bilateral relations. The negotiations took place during the visit to China by the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov.
Turkmenistan on a growth trajectory: results of the four-year period
19.03.202619 March marks the fourth anniversary of Serdar Berdimuhamedov’s inauguration as President of Turkmenistan. This period has been marked by the continuation of the strategic course set by the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, and the implementation of large-scale reforms in the socio-economic and foreign policy spheres. This is reported by AsmanNews. The presidential elections on 12 March 2022, held on a competitive basis, opened a new stage in the country’s development, confirming the continuity of state policy and the focus on modernising governance. The key development guideline is the long-term socio-economic development programme up to 2052, which provides for economic diversification, the introduction of digital technologies and the strengthening of the private sector. In pursuit of these objectives, Turkmenistan is demonstrating robust macroeconomic performance: by the end of 2025, GDP growth stood at 6.3%, investment volumes increased, and the construction of infrastructure projects continued. On the international stage, Turkmenistan remains committed to a policy of permanent neutrality and actively promotes initiatives within the United Nations. Significant steps include the adoption of resolutions on the country’s Permanent Neutrality and the declaration of 2025 as the International Year of Peace and Trust. Particular attention is being paid to the development of cultural and humanitarian cooperation, engagement with UNESCO, and the promotion of the national heritage. Turkmenistan is expanding its participation in international programmes and strengthening its position in the global cultural sphere. Thus, the four-year period of Serdar Berdimuhamedov’s presidency is characterised by the consistent implementation of a comprehensive strategy aimed at sustainable development, improving the quality of life of the population and strengthening the country’s international standing.
Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov congratulated the President of Turkmenistan
19.03.2026The National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, has sent a congratulatory message to the President of Turkmenistan on the occasion of his inauguration. This was reported by TDH. The message notes that the victory in the 2022 presidential election reflected the trust of the people and was achieved in an atmosphere of openness and choice. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov emphasised that the declaration of 2026 under the motto ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’ reflects the continuity of state traditions and the country’s development. He also highlighted Turkmenistan’s contribution to the development of international cooperation and the promotion of initiatives across various areas of diplomacy, including economic, energy and humanitarian spheres. In conclusion, the National Leader of the Turkmen people wished the President of Turkmenistan good health, a long life and continued success in his state duties.
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