Policy
The Ambassador of Turkmenistan took part in a reception on behalf of the President of Slovenia
22.01.2026On 19 January, Esen Aydogdyev, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to Slovenia, attended a New Year's reception hosted by Natasha Pirc Musar, President of the Republic of Slovenia, and Robert Golob, Prime Minister, for Heads of diplomatic missions accredited in Slovenia on the occasion of the New Year. This was reported by the press service of the Embassy of Turkmenistan in the Russian Federation. E. Aydogdyev conveyed congratulations from the President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov and the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, emphasising the readiness to develop bilateral cooperation. In response, the Slovenian leadership sent New Year greetings and best wishes to the President of Turkmenistan and Hero Arkadag. As part of the event, the Ambassador of Turkmenistan met with Melita Gabrič, State Secretary for Multilateral Affairs, Political Issues and Development Cooperation at the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of the Republic of Slovenia. The parties discussed topical issues of political-diplomatic, trade-economic and cultural-humanitarian cooperation, the organisation of mutual visits, the work of the Inter-governmental Commission and the improvement of the legal framework for relations. Particular attention was paid to the development of trade and economic cooperation and the maintenance of regular working contacts. The parties also exchanged views on the regional and international agenda, emphasising constructive cooperation in UN forums.
The President of Turkmenistan met with the Director-General of the FAO in Ashgabat
22.01.2026The President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov received Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) Qu Dongyu, according to the online news resource Asmannews. During the meeting, they discussed Turkmenistan's cooperation with the FAO, as well as food security issues in the context of climate change. Qu Dongyu emphasised the organisation's interest in developing cooperation with Turkmenistan, noting the reforms being carried out in the country's agricultural sector and international environmental initiatives. Serdar Berdimuhamedov noted the importance of the regional conference on food security being held in Turkmenistan, which serves as a platform for the exchange of experience and is supported by the FAO. The Head of State stressed that cooperation with the UN and its specialised agencies remains one of the priorities of the country's foreign policy. Turkmenistan is actively involved in initiatives to strengthen global food security, rational management of natural resources and addressing climate and environmental issues. Digital technologies are being introduced in the agricultural sector and the land and water resource management system is being improved. The President said that, with the support of the FAO, projects are being implemented to modernise agriculture, increase productivity and protect crops. Work is also being carried out within the framework of the Green Climate Fund and the ‘One Health’ approach. The parties confirmed their readiness to further expand cooperation and concluded the meeting by exchanging best wishes.
Turkmenistan's Foreign Affairs Ministry discussed cooperation with the EU during SPECA Week
22.01.2026On 21 January 2026, Turkmenistan's Foreign Affairs Minister Rashid Meredov met with the EU Special Representative for Central Asia, Eduards Stiprais, in Ashgabat. The visit was held as part of SPECA Week, according to the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of cooperation between Turkmenistan and the European Union. Particular attention was paid to expanding political and diplomatic dialogue and the legal framework. The possibility of holding high-level meetings and visits in 2026 was considered. Issues of cooperation in the field of transport and the development of partnerships in the field of vocational education were also discussed.
The UN has published documents on international events involving Turkmenistan
22.01.2026The final documents of two international events involving Turkmenistan have been published as official materials of the UN General Assembly and Security Council during the 80th session. This was reported by the online publication ‘Business Turkmenistan’, citing the Permanent Mission of Turkmenistan to the UN. The first document summarises the results of the International Conference ‘The Role of Women in Modern Society: Promoting International Cooperation for Sustainable Development,’ addressing issues of gender equality, expanding international cooperation, and women's contribution to sustainable development. The second document contains the Ashgabat Declaration of the International Forum on Peace and Trust, timed to coincide with the International Year of Peace and Trust 2025, International Neutrality Day and the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's Permanent Neutrality. The declaration emphasises the importance of dialogue, trust and neutrality for strengthening peace and stability.
The Ambassador of Turkmenistan met with the Secretary General of the SCO
21.01.2026On 20 January, a meeting was held at the Embassy of Turkmenistan in the People's Republic of China between the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan, Parahat Durdyev, and the Secretary-General of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), Nurlan Yermekbayev. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the expansion of cooperation between Turkmenistan and the SCO. The Ambassador congratulated the Secretary General on the New Year and wished him success in implementing the Organisation's tasks. Parahat Durdyev noted the multifaceted nature of the SCO's work and the high level of interaction with Turkmenistan. He provided information on the events planned by the Turkmen side in 2026, as well as on the preparations for the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan's independence. Nurlan Yermekbayev expressed his gratitude for the invitation and opportunity to participate in the Forum dedicated to the International Year of Peace and Trust, International Neutrality Day and the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's Permanent Neutrality. He also recalled his meeting with the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. At the end of the meeting, the parties confirmed the potential for developing cooperation in the trade, economic, transport, logistics and humanitarian spheres.
The President of Turkmenistan addressed the participants of the SPECA Economic Forum
21.01.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, addressed participants at the Economic Forum, which is being held in Ashgabat as part of the UN Special Programme for the Economies of Central Asia (SPECA) Week. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. The forum is being held in the capital of Turkmenistan as part of the UN Special Programme for the Economies of Central Asia (SPECA) Week. The greeting noted that the event is aimed at developing cooperation between the states participating in the programme. The President of Turkmenistan emphasised that the SPECA countries support the expansion of the programme's agenda. These include projects in the fields of e-commerce, digitalisation, ‘green’ growth, energy interconnectivity and transport integration in Eurasia. Turkmenistan, which will chair SPECA in 2025, proposed the creation of an effective regional market for goods, services, investment and innovation. Turkmenistan's international activities in the field of sustainable energy were noted separately. The UN General Assembly adopted three relevant resolutions on the country's initiative. It was also proposed to focus the work of the SPECA profile group on key issues of energy, water resources and ecology. Forum participants will be able to familiarise themselves with Turkmenistan's economic indicators, investment strategy, industrial and innovation policy and the introduction of modern technologies, as well as the country's potential over the years of independence. The address emphasises that during its chairmanship of SPECA, Turkmenistan has put forward initiatives for the sustainable development of the region, including issues relating to the Caspian Sea. The forum is seen as a platform for dialogue, joint decision-making and discussion of the SPECA Development Concept until 2030.
The Ahal-Teke horse complex is being prepared for the Turkmen horse festival
20.01.2026The Turkish company ‘GAP Inşaat’ is modernising the Ahal-Teke Horse Complex of the President of Turkmenistan. The facility is being prepared as the main venue for spring events dedicated to the National Day of the Turkmen Horse. The progress of the work was inspected by the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, reports Infoportal. The project involves the renovation of stables and riding arenas, as well as the redevelopment of transport and engineering infrastructure. A high-speed motorway with reinforced bridges over mud channels and a lighting system is being built to the complex. Thousands of trees are being planted along the route. The buildings of the complex will house sculptures, paintings and screens for broadcasting competitions. The National Leader of the Turkmen people noted the need to comply with international standards at all stages of construction. After completion, the complex will be used as a multifunctional centre for horse breeding and equestrian sports.
Seasonal work continues in Turkmenistan's agricultural sector
20.01.2026On 19 January, at a working meeting on the development of the agro-industrial complex, Deputy Prime Minister T. Atahallyev reported on the progress of seasonal agricultural campaigns. This was reported by TerraNews. It was reported that wheat fields are being tended in accordance with agricultural standards. In preparation for cotton sowing, ploughing, harrowing and ridging of the land are being carried out. Cotton ginning enterprises are processing and selecting seed material. Preparations for spring sowing are continuing in the velayats. Land plots are being cultivated, potato and vegetable seeds are being prepared, and agricultural machinery is being serviced. After hearing the report, the President of Turkmenistan emphasised the importance of agriculture for the country's economy and instructed that measures be taken to further develop the industry, taking into account scientific approaches and best practices.
Turkmenistan and Austria discussed issues of bilateral cooperation
20.01.2026On 19 January, a video conference meeting was held between Rashid Meredov, Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan, and Beate Meinl-Reisinger, Federal Minister for European and International Affairs of Austria. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The two ministers discussed issues of bilateral cooperation in the political-diplomatic, trade-economic, and cultural-humanitarian spheres. The cooperation between Turkmenistan and the Republic of Austria within international structures, including the UN, EU and OSCE, was noted. The possibilities of organising high-level and senior-level meetings in the current year were considered. Exchanges of views on topical international issues of mutual interest were held as well.
Turkmenistan and Qatar discussed cooperation in science and education
20.01.2026On 19 January, the Ambassador of Turkmenistan to the State of Qatar, Myratgeldi Seyitmammedov, met with the Rector of University of Doha for Science and Technology, Salem Al-Naemi. This was reported by Orient. During the meeting, the Ambassador announced that 2026 in Turkmenistan will be held under the motto ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’ and presented a plan for celebrations to mark the 35th anniversary of the country's independence. The Diplomat emphasised that the development of the Turkmen education system is closely linked to international cooperation. Work is underway on joint educational programmes, academic exchanges and teacher training with foreign universities and research centres. The parties discussed prospects for further cooperation in science and education. Specific steps will be agreed during the upcoming visit of representatives of Doha University to Turkmenistan.
UNDP promotes the introduction of digital solutions in Turkmenistan's economy
19.01.2026UNDP provided support in developing the Concept for the Development of the Digital Economy of Turkmenistan and the State Programme for 2026–2028. This was announced by Dmitry Shlapachenko, UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan, in an interview with the newspaper ‘Neutral Turkmenistan’, as reported by Turkmenportal. According to him, with the assistance of UNDP, new approaches to financial reporting and the methodology for applying the System of National Accounts have been introduced. Risk management at customs has also been strengthened as part of the creation of a Single Window for export and import operations. One of the key projects was a pilot project to introduce an electronic equivalent of the SMGS railway consignment note using UN/CEFACT standards. This has brought Turkmenistan's practices closer to international standards. In addition, UNDP equipped four vocational and technical education institutions with modern IT infrastructure and organised training for more than 100 young professionals.
Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses
18.01.2026In Turkmenistan’s development strategy, the preservation of national values and their promotion at the international level remains one of the priority directions of state policy. In this regard, special attention is paid to Turkmen Ahal-Teke horses. The President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov and the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov regard noble horses not merely as a historical heritage, but as an important symbol of national spirit, statehood, and international prestige. Throughout the historical development of the Turkmen people, the harmonious integration of national values with the principles of statehood has always held particular significance. The motto of 2026 — ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’ — serves as a vivid expression of this unity. Approved by a Resolution of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan on December 26, 2025, the motto brings together the nation’s historical experience, its current development path, and its lofty aspirations for the future into a single conceptual framework. Its meaning goes far beyond a simple combination of words, revealing the ideological foundations of Turkmen statehood, the national spirit, and the philosophy of sustainable progress. The history of Turkmen Ahal-Teke horses spans thousands of years. Since ancient times, the Turkmen people have lived side by side with horses, relying on their strength, endurance, and loyalty in shaping their way of life. Situated along the routes of the Great Silk Road, Turkmen lands regarded horses not merely as a means of transportation, but as an essential element of economic, military, and political relations. The image of ‘purposeful winged horses’ used in the motto is deeply rooted in this historical experience. It symbolizes a dynamic, confident, and goal-oriented development path. Victories achieved on horseback, vast deserts crossed, and states established throughout history have formed the spiritual foundation of the Turkmen people’s enduring belief in progress. The concept of ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan’ constitutes the core of the motto’s political meaning. Independence reflects the sovereign right of the nation to determine its own development path, while neutrality demonstrates Turkmenistan’s commitment to peace, stability, and constructive international cooperation. The elevation of Turkmen Ahal-Teke horses to the status of a national symbol and their representation of Turkmenistan on the global stage serve as a cultural expression of this policy. Noble, peace-oriented, yet powerful and resilient, the Turkmen horse embodies the essence of the country’s neutral stance. In the Turkmen worldview, the concept of ‘at-myrat’—the unity of the horse and aspiration—represents not merely a linguistic expression, but a philosophy of life. The horse symbolizes movement and action, while aspiration signifies purpose, dreams, and the future. The inclusion of this concept in the motto reflects the nation’s determination to move steadily toward clearly defined goals. In social life, the relationship between humans and horses has traditionally carried strong educational value, fostering patience, responsibility, diligence, and purposefulness among younger generations. Today, the development of horse-breeding facilities and national equestrian sports continues to strengthen the spiritual unity of society. In Turkmen traditions, horses have long been accorded special respect. They have been perceived as pure-spirited, loyal companions and guiding beings. Beliefs emphasizing humane treatment and protection of horses form an integral part of the national moral code. These spiritual values remain relevant today, with Ahal-Teke horses regarded not only as material heritage, but also as a profound spiritual asset. The spiritual dimension of the horse’s image within the motto stems directly from these deeply rooted cultural beliefs. Turkmen literature also glorifies Ahal-Teke horses as symbols of heroism, freedom, and loyalty. In the epic ‘Gorogly’, horses such as Gyrat and Durat are portrayed as literary embodiments of the Turkmen people’s ideals of justice and bravery. This rich literary heritage further enriches the meaning of the motto, demonstrating that the horse continues to live in the national consciousness not only historically, but also culturally and spiritually. Another important reason for adopting this motto is its coincidence with the Year of the Horse according to the Eastern calendar. The Year of the Horse symbolizes movement, progress, and new opportunities, fully aligning with the essence of the motto and further elevating the role of Ahal-Teke horses in Turkmen society. Under the leadership of Hero Arkadag, comprehensive efforts have been undertaken to preserve the pure lineage of Turkmen purebred horses, develop them on a scientific basis, and promote them internationally. Measures such as safeguarding the genetic pool of Ahal-Teke horses, establishing modern horse-breeding complexes, and expanding international cooperation in the equestrian field have acquired a systematic, state-level character. These initiatives are being successfully continued under the leadership of the President of Turkmenistan, with Ahal-Teke horses becoming an integral component of the national development strategy. The advancement of equestrian sports, the organization of international competitions and events, and the prominent presence of horses at state celebrations and official ceremonies clearly attest to this commitment. The international recognition of Turkmen Ahal-Teke horses as an integral part of world cultural heritage represents one of the most significant outcomes of state policy in this area. The Art of breeding Turkmen horses and the traditions associated with it have been inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, receiving official international recognition. This event confirms that the national heritage of the Turkmen people is acknowledged not only at the national level, but also as a value of universal significance. This achievement is the result of the consistent policy pursued by the President of Turkmenistan and Hero Arkadag to preserve national heritage and promote it worldwide. UNESCO’s recognition serves as clear evidence that the historical, cultural, and spiritual significance of Turkmen renowned horses is highly valued by the international community. Thus, the motto ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’ comprehensively reflects the historical path of the Turkmen people, the essence of current state policy, and the nation’s confidence in the future, presenting the purebred horse as a living symbol of national spirit, purposeful progress, and statehood.
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