Policy
Turkmenistan makes its mark on the world cultural stage in Barcelona
30.09.2025A delegation from Turkmenistan, led by Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Myahri Byashimova, is participating in the UNESCO World Conference on Cultural Policy and Sustainable Development (MONDIACULT-2025), which is being held from 29 September to 1 October in Barcelona, Spain. This was reported by the news website Asmannews. The conference serves as a platform for global dialogue and cooperation in the field of culture and aims to shape cultural policy strategies for the coming decades, as well as to integrate culture into the post-2030 sustainable development agenda. Delegations from more than 160 countries, UN agencies, inter-governmental and international organisations are participating in MONDIACULT-2025. Issues such as cultural rights, digital transformation, the development of creative industries, the connection between culture and education, climate and artificial intelligence, as well as the preservation of cultural heritage in crisis situations are being discussed. At the thematic sessions ‘Culture and Peace’ and ‘Culture and Education,’ M. Byashimova noted the importance of Turkmenistan's policy on preserving historical and cultural heritage and developing cultural dialogue and cultural diplomacy. She emphasised the country's commitment to UNESCO principles and its active participation in international humanitarian initiatives. Turkmenistan's participation in MONDIACULT-2025 strengthens international cooperation in the field of culture and contributes to the global cultural agenda.
Turkmenistan opens new horizons on the international stage
30.09.2025The past week in Turkmenistan was marked by celebrations of the country's 34th anniversary of independence. The main celebrations were held on 27 September in Ashgabat: President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov laid flowers at the Independence Monument and took part in a parade and festive events, according to the state news agency TDH. Concerts and marches were held in the capital with the participation of representatives of the regions, workers from various industries, athletes and cultural figures. During the parade, modern military equipment and traditional Ahal-Teke horses were demonstrated. The Head of State was presented with a horse named Zaman. On the occasion of the holiday, state awards were presented and military and special ranks were conferred. On 28 September, the celebrations continued at the Ashgabat Equestrian Complex, where exhibitions, concerts and horse races were held, with the main prize won by the horse Bezirgen, belonging to the Ahal-Teke Equestrian Complex of the President of Turkmenistan. Master jockey – B. Agamyradov. The celebrations were accompanied by meetings between the President of Turkmenistan and foreign partners and business delegations. The prospects for cooperation in the oil and gas, chemical and agricultural sectors were discussed. As part of his working visit, Serdar Berdimuhamedov spoke at the 80th anniversary session of the UN General Assembly in New York, where he proposed initiatives in the areas of sustainable development, ecology and strengthening international trust. The President of Turkmenistan held meetings with world leaders and invited them to a forum in Ashgabat dedicated to the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's neutrality. In honour of the anniversary of independence, the President of Turkmenistan signed a number of Decrees, including pardons for convicts and residence permits for foreign citizens. Congratulations to Turkmenistan and its leader were received from world leaders and international organisations. The week of celebrations highlighted the country's commitment to strengthening independence, developing the economy and expanding international cooperation.
Turkmenistan and Russia launch new transport corridor
30.09.2025Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan Mammethan Chakiyev held a meeting with a delegation from the Astrakhan Region led by Vice-Governor Denis Afanasyev. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The parties discussed the development of bilateral cooperation, in particular issues of air transport, logistics and shipbuilding. D. Afanasyev emphasised the importance of a direct flight between Astrakhan and Turkmenbashi for tourism and business, noting the airport's readiness to receive Turkmen Airlines. They also discussed the creation of a logistics centre, the launch of a regular shipping line between ports and the training of specialists at Astrakhan universities, including the Caspian Institute of Maritime and River Transport. The Turkmen side expressed interest in the participation of its companies in Astrakhan International Forum ‘North-South Transport Corridor – New Horizons’ to be held in October.
Turkmenistan Ambassador reveals new projects with South Korea
29.09.2025On 26 September, the Embassy of Turkmenistan in the Republic of Korea held a formal reception at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Seoul to mark the 34th anniversary of Turkmenistan's independence and 30th anniversary of its neutrality, as well as the proclamation of 2025 as the International Year of Peace and Trust. This was reported by the press service of the Turkmen diplomatic mission. The event was attended by representatives of the Korean government and parliament, the diplomatic corps, public organisations, the media and Turkmen students. The guest of honour was Lee Jaewoong, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea. In his speech, Begench Durdyev, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to the Republic of Korea, noted the country's achievements during the years of independence and emphasised the importance of the initiatives of the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, and the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, as well as the important role of the Halk Maslahaty in the development of the state. The Head of the diplomatic mission spoke about the major Turkmen-Korean contracts signed in 2025 worth about $1 billion, the launch of a regular passenger flight between Ashgabat and Seoul, and a twofold increase in trade turnover. The Ambassador emphasised that Turkmenistan's initiative to proclaim 2025 as the International Year of International Peace and Trust had received the support of 86 countries and was unanimously adopted by the UN General Assembly. In his speech, the Deputy Foreign Minister of Korea confirmed the development of bilateral relations, noting the telephone conversation between the President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov and the President of the Republic of Korea Lee Jae-myung, which took place on 29 August. At the end of the reception, the guests viewed an exhibition of Turkmen decorative and applied arts and sampled national cuisine.
Serdar Berdimuhamedov visited the Ashgabat Equestrian Complex
29.09.2025The Ashgabat Equestrian Complex hosted celebrations dedicated to the 34th anniversary of Turkmenistan's independence, attended by President Serdar Berdimuhamedov. This was reported by the news website Asmannews. The celebration brought together government officials, diplomats, artists and the media. Exhibitions were organised to showcase the beauty of Ahal-Teke horses and the skill of Turkmen artists and jewellers. Seven races of various distances were held as part of the celebrations. The winners were the horses Babadash, Gelejek, Hazyna, Dovamat, Garayol, Gudratlydag and Bezirgen. The races were followed by an awards ceremony. The participants expressed their gratitude to the President of Turkmenistan for his support of equestrian sports and assured him that they would continue to promote the glory of Turkmen horses.
The President of Turkmenistan discussed cooperation with the Head of ‘Toyo Engineering’
29.09.2025During the festive horse races dedicated to the 34th anniversary of Turkmenistan's independence, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov received the President, CEO and representative director of the Japanese company ‘Toyo Engineering Corporation’, Eiji Hosoi. This was reported by the news website Asmannews. The parties discussed the development of cooperation between Turkmenistan and Japan, emphasising its strategic and long-term nature. The President of Turkmenistan noted the contribution of Japanese companies, in particular ‘Toyo Engineering Corporation’, to the country's oil, gas and chemical industries. An example of such cooperation is the construction of a gas chemical complex in Gyyanly. Eiji Hosoi expressed his gratitude for the support from the Turkmen government and confirmed the company's readiness to continue participating in new projects. Serdar Berdimuhamedov, in turn, stated his readiness to consider proposals from the Japanese side and noted the prospects for expanding cooperation. At the end of the meeting, the parties confirmed their commitment to further strengthening the partnership.
Turkmenistan opens its doors to agricultural innovation in cooperation with IGNFI
29.09.2025President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov held a meeting with Olivier Deloumeau, Head of IGNFI, who arrived in Ashgabat to participate in the celebrations marking the country's Independence Day. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. The guest congratulated the Head of State on the holiday, noting his first visit to the country and expressing his admiration for the capital and cultural heritage of Turkmenistan. Olivier Deloumeau highly appreciated the pace of socio-economic development in the country and expressed interest in joint projects in the agricultural sector. The President of Turkmenistan stressed that the development of agriculture is of strategic importance for food security and the well-being of the population. The country is modernising its agro-industrial complex and introducing innovations and digital technologies, including precision farming. Serdar Berdimuhamedov confirmed his readiness to consider specific proposals from the company, noting that Turkmenistan is open to cooperation with leading foreign partners. At the end of the meeting, the parties expressed confidence in the prospects for cooperation and strengthening business ties.
A solemn ceremony was held at the Independence Monument in Turkmenistan
28.09.2025On 27 September, a solemn ceremony of laying flowers at the Independence Monument was held in the capital of Turkmenistan to mark the 34th anniversary of the country's independence. This was reported by the news website Asmannews. The event was attended by President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov, as well as the leadership of the Mejlis, the government, ministries and departments, representatives of law enforcement agencies, governors of velayats, and the cities of Ashgabat and Arkadag. The ceremony was also attended by heads of diplomatic missions and international organisations accredited in the country, representatives of the public, students and residents of the capital. After the national anthem was played, the President laid a wreath at the Monument, followed by officials and representatives of foreign embassies. The square near the Independence Monument was decorated with numerous bouquets symbolising respect for the national holiday, sovereignty and unity of the Turkmen people. Celebrations dedicated to Independence Day were held in all regions of the country.
The President of Germany noted the rapid development of relations with Turkmenistan
28.09.2025German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier sent a congratulatory message to President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov on Independence Day and expressed his best wishes. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The message notes that relations between Germany and Turkmenistan are actively developing. Germany's strategic partnership with the states of Central Asia contributes to strengthening political, economic, social and cultural ties between the countries. Steinmeier stressed that today's global challenges require solutions through constructive international cooperation. The German President assured Turkmenistan of Germany's readiness to support it in defending the international order and universally recognised values, wishing the people of Turkmenistan peace and continued prosperity.
Charles III congratulated Serdar Berdimuhamedov on Independence Day
28.09.2025King Charles III of Great Britain and Northern Ireland sent congratulations to President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov on the occasion of Independence Day. This was reported by the news website Asmannews. The message notes that the monarch and his wife are delighted to convey their warm wishes to the people of Turkmenistan. Charles III emphasised the strong bilateral ties between the countries and expressed hope for the further development of friendship. In addition, the King highlighted the importance of working together to address global environmental issues and climate change.
The President of South Korea expressed hope for strengthening ties with Turkmenistan
28.09.2025President of the Republic of Korea Lee Jae-myung sent congratulations to President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov on the occasion of the country's Independence Day, expressing hope for further strengthening of bilateral cooperation. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. ‘I hope that the trust, friendly relations and cooperation established between the Republic of Korea and Turkmenistan will continue to strengthen, and that the friendship between our peoples will grow through active exchanges,’ the message said. On 27 September, Turkmenistan celebrated the 34th anniversary of its independence with festive events throughout the country.
Swiss publication analyses the role of neutrality in Turkmenistan's economy
28.09.2025The Swiss publication ‘Umwelt Zeitung’ published an article entitled ‘Turkmenistan: Unknown, Neutral and Rich,’ in which it highly praised the country's economic model based on permanent neutrality. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. The author of the article, Iurie Moraru, Vice-President of the Joint Chamber of Commerce Switzerland – East Europe, Central Asia, South Caucasus (JCC), considers Turkmenistan's neutrality to be ‘the cornerstone of its economic strategy’. The article provides data on the stability of Turkmenistan's economy. Particular attention is paid to the country's role as a transport and logistics hub in Eurasia: the country is developing the East-West and North-South corridors, building motorways, railways and a port in Turkmenbashi, and World Sustainable Transport Day was proclaimed on its initiative. In the energy sector, neutrality has made it possible to build a multi-vector export policy, including new gas pipelines to China, which has strengthened regional energy security. According to I. Moraru, Turkmenistan demonstrates how a foreign policy principle can become an economic advantage and make the country a reliable partner for international investors.
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