Policy
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.
Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov held negotiations with Xi Jinping in China
19.03.2026During his visit to the People’s Republic of China, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, held an official meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping on 18 March. This was reported by AsmanNews. The negotiations took place following a welcoming ceremony and a joint photo session. Xi Jinping noted that the visit is seen as confirmation of the high level of bilateral relations, and conveyed greetings to President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, congratulating the leadership of Turkmenistan on the Nowruz holiday. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov emphasised that Turkmenistan attaches priority to the development of cooperation with China and conveyed his own greetings in return. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of cooperation, noting the expansion of partnership within the framework of the UN and the ‘Central Asia–China’ format. It was noted that bilateral relations are developing as a comprehensive strategic partnership and cover politics, the economy, trade, science, education and culture. Particular attention was paid to the fuel and energy sector, including projects at the ‘Galkynysh’ field. The parties also explored opportunities for cooperation in the transport and logistics sector within the framework of aligning the ‘Revival of the Great Silk Road’ strategy with the ‘Belt and Road’ initiative. Projects in the fields of science, education, healthcare and agriculture were discussed, including the introduction of technologies and the development of ‘green’ energy. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov presented Xi Jinping with an invitation from the President of Turkmenistan to visit the country. At the conclusion of the meeting, the parties expressed confidence in the further strengthening of their partnership. As part of the gift-exchange ceremony, an Ahal-Teke horse named Gadyrly was presented to the President of the People’s Republic of China on behalf of the President of Turkmenistan. Xi Jinping expressed his gratitude for the gift, noting the high esteem in which Ahal-Teke horses are held in China. The visit of the National Leader of the Turkmen people to China continues.
Turkmenistan and CNPC have identified new areas for partnership
19.03.2026During his visit to the People’s Republic of China, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, held a meeting on 18 March with Dai Houliang, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC). This was reported by TDH. Before the start of the talks, the Head of the corporation introduced the members of the delegation, after which a joint photo session took place. Dai Houliang conveyed greetings to President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and noted the high level of Turkmen-Chinese cooperation. He also congratulated the leadership of Turkmenistan on the upcoming Nowruz holiday. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov emphasised that Turkmenistan attaches particular importance to the development of its partnership with China. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of cooperation, confirming their readiness to further expand cooperation with CNPC. It was noted that bilateral ties cover a wide range of areas, with the fuel and energy sector remaining key. The role of CNPC as one of Turkmenistan’s reliable partners in the oil and gas industry was highlighted. During the meeting, the 20-year history of cooperation was highlighted, in connection with which it was proposed to hold an international scientific and practical conference. Particular attention was paid to the implementation of the ‘Turkmenistan–China’ gas pipeline and the next phase of development of the ‘Galkynysh’ field, which has contributed to the creation of new jobs. The parties also discussed regional projects, including the ‘Serhetabat–Herat’ section of the TAPI gas pipeline. Following the talks, the participants expressed confidence in the further development of a mutually beneficial partnership.
Turkmenistan and UNHCR discussed cooperation and the elimination of statelessness
18.03.2026On 18 March 2026, Myahri Byashimova, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan, held a meeting with Mahir Safarli, Regional Representative of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Central Asia, according to the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. At the start of the meeting, M. Safarli presented a letter confirming his appointment as Regional Representative. M. Byashimova congratulated him and wished him success in his work. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of cooperation between Turkmenistan and UNHCR, and exchanged views on issues relating to the regional and international humanitarian agenda. The importance of interaction with UNHCR within the framework of Turkmenistan’s cooperation with the UN was emphasised, as was the country’s commitment to its international obligations in the field of protecting refugees and stateless persons. Particular attention was paid to the elimination of statelessness. Turkmenistan’s achievements were noted, including the implementation of the National Action Plan for 2019–2024 and the organisation of the Regional Ministerial Conference on the Eradication of Statelessness in Ashgabat in November 2024. The country’s participation in UNHCR’s global initiatives was discussed, including the Global Alliance to End Statelessness and the Global Forums on Refugees. Prospects for cooperation within the framework of the initiative to declare 2028 the Year of International Law were also considered. In the context of the regional agenda, the parties discussed measures to prevent humanitarian crises and organisational issues relating to cooperation, including the development of a joint action plan for the current period.
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