News
More than 32,000 birds were counted in the Kaplankyr Nature Reserve in Turkmenistan
27.01.2026In the second half of January, a winter bird census was conducted in the Kaplankyr State Nature Reserve. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Environmental Protection of Turkmenistan. The monitoring covered the areas of the Zengibaba, Uzynshor, Atabayshor and Sarykamysh, the coastal areas of the Dashoguz tributary of Lake ‘Altyn Asyr’, as well as other parts of the reserve. The field work was carried out by specialists from the reserve with the assistance of the UNDP project on the conservation and sustainable management of ecosystems in the Aral region. The survey was conducted along an 811 km road route and 36 km of walking routes. Small water bodies were considered as separate observation sites, and Lake Sarykamysh was divided into sectors — Mergenashan, Mashryk-Aji, Gulanly and Hallychakan. Observations were made from fixed points using optical equipment. A total of 45 bird species were recorded. Nine of them are sedentary, including the common owl, hawk, jay, desert crow and wagtail. The remaining species are migratory, nesting and wintering birds. Waterfowl accounted for 26 species, or 57.7% of the total. The total number of birds recorded reached 32,416 individuals.
Ashgabat hosted a formal reception in honour of Republic Day in India
27.01.2026A formal reception was held in Ashgabat to mark India's national holiday, Republic Day. Welcoming speeches were delivered by Bandaru Wilsonbabu, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of India to Turkmenistan, and Rashid Meredov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The participants of the event emphasised the high level of Turkmen-Indian relations and expressed interest in their further development. Particular attention was paid to the expansion of cultural and humanitarian ties, as well as the strengthening of trade and economic partnership. The Indian Ambassador confirmed his readiness to deepen cooperation in the fields of security, energy, chemical industry, healthcare and digital technologies, expressing confidence in the further strengthening of the partnership between the two countries. The Head of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan, Rashid Meredov, conveyed congratulations to the Indian side on behalf of the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, and the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. He emphasised that high-level contacts remain a key factor in the development of relations, noting the significance of mutual visits in 2010, 2015 and 2022. The reception concluded with a cultural programme featuring national music, Indian dances and performances by representatives of the Yoga Centre in the capital.
Hero Arkadag congratulated the President of Turkmenistan on the success of the ‘Galkynysh’ group
27.01.2026National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov sent congratulations to the President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov on the occasion of the presentation of international certificates from the World Circus Federation and the European Circus Association to the ‘Galkynysh’ national equestrian games group. This was reported by TDH. The awards were presented at the International Circus Festival in Monte Carlo for contributions to the development of circus arts. The message emphasises that the motto for 2026 – ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’ – reflects the special significance of the Ahal-Teke horse as a national treasure and symbol of the country's rapid development. It is noted that the ‘Galkynysh’ group previously won the Gold Award and special prizes at the 47th International Circus Festival in Monte Carlo. The troupe regularly performs national equestrian games and complex stunts at international venues. The letter also mentions the development of horse breeding in the country, the work of the Aba Annayev International Academy of Horse Breeding and the State Equestrian Circus named after Gorogly in the city of Arkadag. It is emphasised that the traditions of Ahal-Teke horse breeding and horse decoration have been included in UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. In conclusion, Hero Arkadag wished the President of Turkmenistan good health and further success in his state activities.
The President of Turkmenistan sent congratulations on Defenders of the Fatherland Day
27.01.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov congratulated military personnel and employees of the military and law enforcement agencies on Defenders of the Fatherland Day. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. The Head of State noted the role of the security forces in ensuring independence, permanent neutrality, sovereignty, territorial integrity and law and order, as well as in maintaining state security and public peace. The President of Turkmenistan recalled that in 2026 the country will celebrate the 35th anniversary of its independence. According to him, this date reflects the aspirations of our ancestors to create a sovereign state and will be widely celebrated at the national level. The Head of State emphasised that the Armed Forces continue the tradition of serving the Motherland, demonstrating professionalism and continuity during military exercises. He noted the systematic work on training personnel, strengthening combat readiness and forming generations loyal to the military cause. In conclusion, the President wished the military personnel and law enforcement officers health, prosperity and success in their service.
Service building for customs service put into operation in Balkan velayat
27.01.2026A new residential building for servicemen of the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan has been put into operation in the Etrek etrap of the Balkan velayat. The facility was opened as part of the events dedicated to Defenders of the Fatherland Day, according to the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The four-storey building has 24 flats. The accommodation includes two- and three-room flats with modern finishes and a full range of utilities. The building has centralised water, gas and energy supply systems, as well as sewerage. The surrounding area has been landscaped and equipped with children's playgrounds and recreation areas. The design took into account the conditions for children's education and development, including opportunities for learning foreign languages and computer skills. The opening ceremony was attended by representatives of local authorities, military personnel and residents of the etrap. During the event, commemorative gifts were presented to the builders who participated in the construction of the facility. The celebration was accompanied by a cultural programme.
Turkmenistan achieved record volume of container cargo transportation
27.01.2026In 2025, 21,320 containers were shipped from Turkmenistan, which is 10,200 more than in the same period in 2024. This was reported by the online publication ‘Business Turkmenistan’, citing the country's Ministry of Rail Transport. Of these, 10,470 containers were in transit, 6,450 were for export and 4,400 were for import. The widespread use of container transport increases freight traffic on key international routes — ‘North-South’, ‘Lazurit’ and ‘East-West’ — creating new logistics opportunities for the region.
The capital of Turkmenistan has commissioned new housing for Ministry of Internal Affairs employees
27.01.2026A new phase of the modern cottage complex named after Malikguly Berdimuhamedov, built for the families of employees of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, has been commissioned in Ashgabat. This was reported by IIC. The housing stock includes 56 five-room apartments designed for large families. All rooms are fully equipped with modern furniture and household appliances, allowing new residents to move in immediately without additional costs or organisational difficulties. Elements of traditional Turkmen culture were presented as part of the ceremony. In the courtyards of the complex, women prepared national dishes — chelpeks and pishmes — and baked bread in tamdyrs. The festive atmosphere was complemented by performances by children's dance groups and musical numbers accompanied by the dutar and tar. During the symbolic ribbon cutting, balloons were released into the sky. On behalf of the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, the new residents were presented with commemorative gifts. The event concluded with a cultural programme at the yurts, featuring an exhibition of folk crafts, including carpets and jewellery. The final chord was the dance ‘Kushtdepdi’ performed by the folk ensemble ‘Miras’.
The Great Silk Road: a historical route and a modern model of development
27.01.2026The Great Silk Road occupied a special place in the development of human civilization, connecting the East and the West not only in terms of trade, but also through the exchange of cultures, science, and spiritual values. For thousands of years, this route served as an important economic and geopolitical factor that shaped the course of world history. The main nodes of the Great Silk Road passed through the territory of present-day Turkmenistan, confirming the country’s historical role as a center of international relations since ancient times. The emergence of the Great Silk Road dates back to the 2nd century BCE and encompassed a multifunctional network of routes stretching from China through Central Asia to the Middle East and Europe. It was not a single road, but an extensive system of interconnected trade and communication routes. Through this network, silk, precious stones, metals, aromatic substances, textiles, as well as scientific and cultural achievements were transported from one region to another. Within the territory of Turkmenistan, ancient cities such as Merv, Nisa, Amul (modern Turkmenabat), and Koneurgench served as major hubs of the Great Silk Road. These cities functioned not only as centers of trade, but also as important centers of science, culture, and craftsmanship. Through them, economic and cultural ties between the East and the West were strengthened. The significance of the Great Silk Road was not limited to trade relations alone. It contributed to the development of dialogue among different civilizations and fostered mutual understanding and cooperation among peoples. The spread of religious teachings, scientific ideas, and architectural styles was also carried out through this route. Thus, the Great Silk Road stands as a historical example of integration and cooperation in world history. The book ‘Turkmenistan — Heart of the Great Silk Road’ by the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, demonstrates how this historical heritage continues to evolve with renewed meaning in the modern era. The work provides an in-depth analysis of Turkmenistan’s historical role along the Great Silk Road, the development of ancient cities, archaeological discoveries, and the country’s strategic position at the crossroads of civilizations. The book emphasizes that the Great Silk Road is not only a legacy of the past, but also a contemporary foundation for economic development and international cooperation. Located at a strategic crossroads of Eurasia, Turkmenistan is consistently strengthening its status as one of the key transit and transport hubs of the region. In modern conditions, the idea of reviving the Great Silk Road finds its practical realization through the implementation of large-scale infrastructure projects aimed at forming sustainable and interconnected transport corridors. The country’s advantageous geographical position contributes to the expansion of trade and economic relations, the acceleration of cargo transportation, and the development of multilateral cooperation among the states of Central Asia, the Caucasus, the Middle East, and Europe. The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, pursuing a balanced and far-sighted foreign policy in the conditions of the 21st century, consistently puts forward international initiatives aimed at developing a modern transit and transport infrastructure that serves the interests of sustainable and harmonious development of countries worldwide. Particular attention is paid to the practical and timely implementation of these initiatives, reflecting Turkmenistan’s strategic approach to strengthening global cooperation in the transport sector. Active participation in the implementation of large-scale regional transport projects in cooperation with international organizations occupies an important place in the ‘Concept of the Foreign Policy Course of Neutral Turkmenistan’ and the ‘Program for the Development of Transport Diplomacy of the President of Turkmenistan.’ A clear confirmation of the effectiveness of this policy is the adoption by the United Nations General Assembly, at the initiative of Turkmenistan, of a number of resolutions devoted to the role of transport and transit corridors, the development of multimodal transport, and the strengthening of interconnectivity among all modes of transport in the interests of sustainable development, including in the post-pandemic period, as well as the establishment of World Sustainable Transport Day. These decisions vividly demonstrate Turkmenistan’s high international standing and the country’s significant achievements in the field of transport diplomacy. International transport and transit corridors involving Turkmenistan occupy a prominent place in this process, including the multimodal route ‘Afghanistan–Turkmenistan–Azerbaijan–Georgia–Turkey,’ the international transport corridor ‘Turkmenistan–Azerbaijan–Georgia–Romania,’ running along the Caspian Sea–Black Sea axis, as well as the multilateral multimodal corridor ‘China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan–Turkmenistan–Azerbaijan–Georgia–Turkey–Europe.’ These routes contribute to the expansion of transport links between regions and to the strengthening of the country’s transit potential. Alongside this, transport and transit corridor projects ‘Uzbekistan–Turkmenistan–Iran–Oman’ and ‘Uzbekistan–Turkmenistan–Iran–Turkey,’ as well as the international railway line ‘Kazakhstan–Turkmenistan–Iran,’ are of major strategic importance, as they provide access to the ports of the Persian Gulf and establish reliable connections between Central Asia and global markets. The consistent implementation of these initiatives, together with their international recognition at the United Nations level, clearly attests to the growing role of Turkmenistan in shaping the modern system of international transportation. From an economic perspective, the growth of international transit potential expands Turkmenistan’s export opportunities, creates new jobs, and promotes economic diversification. Overall, the Great Silk Road is not only part of Turkmenistan’s historical past, but also a key pillar of the country’s modern development strategy. The historical experience of this trade route forms a solid foundation for the creation of a modern transport and logistics system.
Media communications for business discussed in Turkmenistan
26.01.2026Every Sunday, the Centre for Young Entrepreneurs at the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs of Turkmenistan hosts interesting events where participants not only learn the basics of business, but also create a platform for intergenerational exchange of experience, according to the Orient news agency. At the last meeting, they discussed media technologies and the role of communications in modern entrepreneurship. The seminar audience is diverse, ranging from 15-year-old schoolchildren to experienced 70-year-old participants. Many come with their spouses — business in Turkmenistan is often a family affair, and it is important that loved ones understand the complexity of an entrepreneur's work. Participants discussed why it is useful for entrepreneurs to have journalistic skills: it helps them convey the specifics of their product, track trends and find new niches. Three key areas for success were identified: the media field as a tool for analysing and adjusting strategy, personal branding and social networks to build audience trust, and control of the information space and the ability to work with feedback.
Turkmen wrestlers win gold at international tournament in Baku
26.01.2026The ‘Aslanov Wrestling Open Tournament’, an international freestyle wrestling competition bringing together the strongest athletes from different countries, is being held in Baku. This was reported by IIC. Turkmen wrestlers Shamuhammet Rejepov and Annadurdy Annadurdyev won their weight categories, winning gold medals and confirming the high level of the national wrestling school. Their victories at this prestigious international event were an important achievement for the Turkmenistan national team, demonstrating the high quality of training and the growing potential of athletes on the world stage.
The Turkmenistan kickboxing team is holding an international training camp in Shymkent
26.01.2026The national team of the Turkmenistan Kickboxing Federation is holding international training camps in Shymkent (Kazakhstan). This was reported by the IIC. Leading Turkmen and foreign athletes are participating in the training sessions, which allows them to practise fighting in conditions similar to those of international competitions. The main focus is on improving technique and tactics, developing endurance and psychological resilience. The training camp promotes the exchange of experience, the mastery of modern training methods and the strengthening of international sporting ties, creating a solid foundation for successful performances in upcoming tournaments.
Turkmenistan delegation participates in General Assembly of Olympic Council of Asia
26.01.2026A delegation from Turkmenistan is participating in the 46th General Assembly of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), which is being held in Tashkent. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. Delegations from 45 countries are participating in the forum, discussing the prospects for the development of the Olympic movement in Asia and electing a new head of the organisation. Turkmenistan is represented by the Secretary General of the National Olympic Committee of Turkmenistan, Ata Akmammedov, and the Chairman of the State Committee of Turkmenistan for Physical Culture and Sport, Allaberdi Saparov. The key item on the agenda was the election of the President of the Olympic Council of Asia. The only candidate for this position is Sheikh Joaan Bin Hamad Al Thani, President of the Qatar Olympic Committee. The need for elections is due to the fact that the current OCA President, Raja Randhir Singh (India), is unable to complete his term of office due to health reasons. The assembly is also discussing strategic directions for the development of Asian sport, including long-term plans until 2028. Particular emphasis is being placed on the digitalisation of sports institutions and expanding youth participation in the Olympic movement.
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