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Key priorities for Turkmenistan's chairmanship of the CIS have been defined
13.03.2026The official website of the CIS Executive Committee has published the Concept of Turkmenistan's Chairmanship of the CIS for 2026 and the plan for its implementation, according to the news website Asmannews. The document defines five key priorities: strengthening peace and security, developing the economy and transport connectivity, digitalisation, the environmental agenda and humanitarian cooperation. In the political sphere, the emphasis is on maintaining regional stability and expanding diplomatic dialogue between the CIS countries. The economic section provides for the development of the ‘North-South’ and ‘East-West’ transport corridors, deepening energy cooperation, and stimulating trade and investment. The environmental section includes joint projects in the field of renewable energy and adaptation to climate change. The plan for 2026 provides for 25 events, seven of which will take place in Turkmenistan. These include meetings of the CIS Council of Heads of Government in May, the Economic Council in September, the Council of Foreign Ministers and the CIS Council of Heads of State on 9 October in Awaza, as well as a meeting of the Council for Cultural Cooperation in Ashgabat.
Turkmenistan discusses measures to protect agricultural landscapes from drought
13.03.2026An expert meeting on the adaptation of agro-ecological landscapes to arid conditions was held in Ashgabat with the support of the national branch of the Regional Environmental Centre for Central Asia (CAREC). This was reported by the IIC. Scientists from the National Institute of Deserts, specialists from the International Scientific and Technological Park of the Academy of Sciences, ecologists and representatives of international organisations took part in the discussion. The main focus was on finding practical solutions to reduce damage to agriculture and the environment caused by lack of rainfall. International experts, including representatives of the World Bank and the Water Institute, noted the transboundary nature of climate risks in the region. Given the dependence of economies on the water resources of large rivers such as the Amu Darya, it is important to plan investments in vulnerable sectors accurately and develop early warning systems based on satellite data. The need for long-term planning, taking into account rising average temperatures and changes in the hydrological regime, was discussed separately. The meeting participants proposed measures to modernise agricultural production and water use: the introduction of digital solutions in the water sector, the development of greenhouse vegetable growing and the breeding of drought-resistant crop varieties. The combination of traditional methods of folk hydrotechnics, including ‘underground irrigation,’ with the modernisation of water infrastructure was also considered. Following the meeting, proposals were prepared for further cross-sectoral cooperation within the framework of regional programmes. Experts emphasised that combining national efforts with international initiatives is an important condition for fulfilling the country's climate commitments and ensuring the sustainable development of Turkmenistan's agro-industrial complex.
Turkmenistan and China discuss the role of women in society and innovation
12.03.2026The ‘Archabil’ Hotel in Ashgabat hosted a round table discussion entitled ‘Turkmenistan–China: Women and Society,’ organised by the Chinese Embassy and dedicated to the role of women in the economies and cultures of both countries. This was reported by the news website Asmannews. Zhong Hua, Chargé d'Affaires, presented statistics on the modern role of women in China: the average life expectancy is 80 years, 46% of scientific and technical personnel are women, and more than half of Internet entrepreneurs are female. Particular attention was paid to last year's visit to China by a Turkmen delegation led by Oguljahan Atabayeva, which strengthened cooperation in protecting children's rights and supporting motherhood. China plans to train 50,000 women and launch 1,000 local social projects over the next five years. Oguljennet Berdiliyeva, Chairwoman of the Women's Union of Turkmenistan, gave a response speech, and the subsequent dinner turned into an exchange of success stories. The participants discussed a wide range of topics, from preserving national embroidery to achievements in aviation. Turkmen women scientists, teachers and businesswomen demonstrated a harmonious combination of innovation and national values.
Turkmenistan and Australia discussed prospects for bilateral relations
12.03.2026On 12 March, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Ahmet Gurbanov held a meeting with Australian Ambassador to Turkmenistan (resident in Moscow) John William Geering. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the current state and prospects for the development of bilateral cooperation between Turkmenistan and Australia. Particular attention was paid to strengthening political and diplomatic cooperation, as well as expanding partnership in the trade, economic, cultural and humanitarian fields. During the conversation, the diplomats exchanged views on a number of topical international and regional issues. In particular, the situation in the Middle East was discussed. The importance of consolidating international efforts to ensure peace, security and stability in the region was emphasised. Ambassador John William Geering, in turn, expressed his gratitude to the Turkmen side for its assistance in organising the transit of Australian citizens travelling from Iran. Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their interest in continuing constructive dialogue and further strengthening friendly relations between Turkmenistan and Australia.
Key priorities for Turkmenistan's chairmanship of the CIS have been defined
12.03.2026The official website of the CIS Executive Committee has published the Concept of Turkmenistan's Chairmanship of the CIS for 2026 and the plan for its implementation, according to the news website Asmannews. The document defines five key priorities: strengthening peace and security, developing the economy and transport connectivity, digitalisation, the environmental agenda and humanitarian cooperation. In the political sphere, the emphasis is on maintaining regional stability and expanding diplomatic dialogue between the CIS countries. The economic section provides for the development of the ‘North-South’ and ‘East-West’ transport corridors, deepening energy cooperation, and stimulating trade and investment. The environmental section includes joint projects in the field of renewable energy and adaptation to climate change. The plan for 2026 provides for 25 events, seven of which will take place in Turkmenistan. These include meetings of the CIS Council of Heads of Government in May, the Economic Council in September, the Council of Foreign Ministers and the CIS Council of Heads of State on 9 October in Awaza, as well as a meeting of the Council for Cultural Cooperation in Ashgabat.
Turkmenistan discusses measures to protect agricultural landscapes from drought
12.03.2026An expert meeting on the adaptation of agro-ecological landscapes to arid conditions was held in Ashgabat with the support of the national branch of the Regional Environmental Centre for Central Asia (CAREC). This was reported by the IIC. Scientists from the National Institute of Deserts, specialists from the International Scientific and Technological Park of the Academy of Sciences, ecologists and representatives of international organisations took part in the discussion. The main focus was on finding practical solutions to reduce damage to agriculture and the environment caused by lack of rainfall. International experts, including representatives of the World Bank and the Water Institute, noted the transboundary nature of climate risks in the region. Given the dependence of economies on the water resources of large rivers such as the Amu Darya, it is important to plan investments in vulnerable sectors accurately and develop early warning systems based on satellite data. The need for long-term planning, taking into account rising average temperatures and changes in the hydrological regime, was discussed separately. The meeting participants proposed measures to modernise agricultural production and water use: the introduction of digital solutions in the water sector, the development of greenhouse vegetable growing and the breeding of drought-resistant crop varieties. The combination of traditional methods of folk hydrotechnics, including ‘underground irrigation,’ with the modernisation of water infrastructure was also considered. Following the meeting, proposals were prepared for further cross-sectoral cooperation within the framework of regional programmes. Experts emphasised that combining national efforts with international initiatives is an important condition for fulfilling the country's climate commitments and ensuring the sustainable development of Turkmenistan's agro-industrial complex.
Ashgabat and Ankara strengthen cooperation in the field of migration
12.03.2026A working meeting between representatives of the State Migration Service of Turkmenistan and the Main Directorate of the Migration Service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Turkey was held in the format of a video conference. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. During the talks, the parties discussed the prospects for the development of Turkmen-Turkish cooperation in the field of migration and exchanged views on key areas of interaction. The participants also noted the importance of joint work within international organisations and expressed confidence in the further strengthening of the partnership between the two countries in the field of migration.
Turkmenistan strengthens its position in world equestrian sport through the FEI
12.03.2026A meeting was held in Lausanne between Vepa Hajiyev, Permanent Representative of Turkmenistan to the United Nations Office in Geneva, Ingmar De Vos, President of the International Equestrian Federation (FEI), and Sabrina Ibáñez, Secretary General of the Federation, according to IIC. The main topic of the talks was the expansion of strategic partnership in the field of equestrian sports and the inclusion of Turkmenistan in the calendar of major international competitions. The Turkmen side emphasised the significance of 2026, which has been declared the year of ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’ in the country, and expressed interest in hosting prestigious show jumping tournaments under the auspices of the FEI. Special attention was paid to the development of the International Equestrian Academy: the parties discussed attracting experts from the federation to train professional staff and teachers. The prospect of holding one of the future FEI General Assemblies in Turkmenistan was also considered. The Turkmen delegation confirmed its participation in the next assembly, scheduled for December 2026 in Guangzhou. Strengthening cooperation with the FEI opens up new opportunities for the professional growth of Turkmen riders and the promotion of national cultural heritage on the international stage.
CIS Secretary General meets with Turkmen Ambassador in Moscow
12.03.2026An official meeting between CIS Secretary General Sergey Lebedev and Turkmenistan's Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Esen Aydogdyev took place in Moscow. The negotiations took place at the Commonwealth Executive Committee and were timed to coincide with the end of Aydogdyev's diplomatic mission in Russia and his appointment to a new government position, according to IIC. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of multilateral cooperation within the CIS, preparations for the meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers and key aspects of Turkmenistan's chairmanship of the organisation. Ashgabat's significant contribution to strengthening integration ties and constructive dialogue between the Commonwealth countries was noted. The Secretary General thanked Esen Aydogdyev for his effective work and wished him success in his future professional activities. Earlier, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov signed a Decree transferring Aydogdyev to the post of Head of the Embassy of Turkmenistan in the United States of America. The appointment to such a responsible position underscores the recognition of the diplomat's merits and the importance of the new tasks of the country's foreign policy department.
Turkmenistan preserves its 12th-century heritage — the mausoleum of Yusuf Hamadani
12.03.2026The mausoleum of the Islamic theologian and Sufi sheikh Yusuf Hamadani, located within the State Historical and Cultural Reserve ‘Ancient Merv,’ remains one of the key monuments of Turkmenistan, the IIC reports. Constructed in the 12th century, the complex combines the historical heritage of the Seljuks, the flourishing of Eastern philosophy, and the precision of medieval architecture. During that era, Merv – known as ‘Maru-shahu jahan’ (‘King of the World’) – was an intellectual capital of the Islamic world, where prominent scholars worked, including Omar Khayyam. Yusuf ibn Ayyub al-Hamadani, also known as Hoja Yusuf Baba, followed a path from an outstanding jurist of the Baghdad Nizamiyya school to a spiritual mentor and the founder of the Khwajagan Sufi tradition. His teachings, based on social engagement and the rejection of ostentatious ritualism, became an integral part of the cultural identity of Central Asia. The mausoleum erected over his grave after 1140 reflects the architectural achievements of the “Seljuk Golden Age.” The transition from a cubic base to a dome symbolizes the path of knowledge—from the earthly to the divine. Researchers note that the original dome was likely double-layered: the inner shell provided acoustics, the outer one served as a landmark, while the air gap between them regulated the internal temperature. The façades are decorated using the “hazarbaf” technique, in which bricks laid at different angles create a play of light and shadow, complemented by calligraphy and vegetal ornaments. Despite the destruction of Merv by the armies of Genghis Khan in 1221, the mausoleum survived due to its strong masonry and the special status of the site, which continued to serve as a place of pilgrimage. During the Timurid period, the complex was expanded to include mosques and caravanserai-like guest houses. Today, the mausoleum of Hoja Yusuf Baba remains a center of spiritual attraction: for scholars, it is a valuable source of knowledge about Seljuk technologies and aesthetics; for believers, it is a place of an unbroken spiritual tradition that has endured for more than nine centuries.
Turkmenistan strengthens its position in creative industries at regional forum
12.03.2026From 28 February to 2 March, Tashkent hosted the ‘Creative Central Asia 2026’ regional forum, which brought together experts from Central Asian countries and the United Kingdom. The event was dedicated to the development of creative industries as a strategic tool for urban development and human capital strengthening, according to the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The forum's programme covered interdisciplinary approaches and the implementation of innovations. Participants discussed the role of artificial intelligence, mechanisms for attracting investment, the formation of urban infrastructure, education, the economy of values and the skills of the future. The forum included panel discussions, a presentation of the results of the ‘City Rating’ hackathon and professional sessions for establishing business contacts. Turkmenistan was represented at the forum by a delegation of young professionals who are actively developing the country's technological and creative environment. Among them was Vasily Andronov, founder of the ‘Jam Creative’ scientific theatre for children and winner of the twelfth ‘StartUp Academy’ business incubation programme, organised jointly with the International Technological and Scientific Park of the Academy of Sciences of Turkmenistan. According to him, the trip allowed him to study the experience of neighbouring countries and confirmed Turkmenistan's active participation in regional initiatives. It is noted that in the spring of 2025, Ashgabat already hosted the International Forum ‘Creative and Innovative Economy of Turkmenistan’, which demonstrates the consistent development of the sector. Today, the creative economy in the country combines IT, design, art and architecture, creating opportunities for professional self-realisation and shaping the modern image of cities. The ‘Creative Central Asia’ initiative, launched by the British Council in 2017, continues to serve as a key platform for dialogue, promoting the integration of Turkmen professionals into the international creative community.
A meeting of the jury for the ‘Flight of the Horse’ competition was held in Turkmenistan
12.03.2026On 11 March, Turkmenistan hosted a coordination meeting of the jury of the Interstate Television Film Competition ‘The Flight of the Horse: Strength and Grace’, dedicated to the 35th anniversary of the Commonwealth of Independent States. The event took place within the framework of the country’s chairmanship of the CIS, according to the IIC. The meeting was attended by Annasahet Kakayev, Deputy Chairman of the State Committee of Turkmenistan for Television, Radio Broadcasting and Cinematography, and S. Bayramov, Deputy Chairman of the Oguzhan ‘Türkmenfilm’ Association. The name of the competition is symbolic: the Ahal-Teke horse, a national treasure of Turkmenistan, embodies nobility, endurance and continuity of traditions, and also serves as a symbol of strengthening cultural dialogue between the CIS countries. The main goal of the competition is to develop humanitarian cooperation and promote the national cinema of the participating countries. The submission of entries began in February, and the final award ceremony is scheduled for October 2026 in the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone. The jury is made up of leading representatives of the film industry, art historians and horse breeding experts from the CIS countries. The Turkmen side is represented by the Deputy Chairman of ‘Türkmenfilm’, Bayramov, and the Rector of the Aba Annayev International Equestrian Academy, the Head of the ‘Galkynysh’ group, Pygy Bayramdurdyev. This composition ensures the evaluation of both the artistic value of the films and the accuracy of the portrayal of the horse. During the online meeting, the jury agreed on the selection criteria and technical aspects of cooperation. The organisers emphasised that the competition will become an authoritative platform for the exchange of experience between screen masters, discovering new names in documentary and feature films and strengthening professional ties in the CIS media space.
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