News
Entrepreneurs from seven countries purchased Turkmen products at the exchange
10.03.2026Last week, 24 transactions were registered at the State Commodity and Raw Materials Exchange of Turkmenistan. The total value of contracts concluded by Turkmen entrepreneurs for the domestic market amounted to 253 million 664 thousand 200 manats. This was reported by ‘Business Turkmenistan’. According to the source, local businessmen purchased petroleum products, wheat flour, polypropylene and various types of textile products. At the same time, export transactions were concluded on the exchange. Entrepreneurs from Afghanistan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Uzbekistan, the United Arab Emirates, India, Serbia and Turkey purchased liquefied gas produced by the State Concern ‘Türkmenhimiýa’, petroleum products from the State Concern ‘Türkmennebit’, and polypropylene. In addition, foreign buyers purchased grade B urea produced by ‘Türkmenhimiýa’, Portland cement from the Ministry of Industry and Construction of Turkmenistan, and textile products from Turkmen entrepreneurs. Concentrated liquorice root extract and wheat were also sold for export. The total amount of foreign exchange transactions amounted to 14 million 611 thousand 710 US dollars.
Turkmen delegation visits National Museum of China
10.03.2026A Turkmen delegation visited the National Museum of China as part of events to develop cultural and humanitarian cooperation between Turkmenistan and the People's Republic of China. This was reported by the IIC. The highlight of the visit was a tour of a thematic exhibition featuring rare historical artefacts, from ancient terracotta figurines to painted scrolls. The exhibition was dedicated to the image of the so-called ‘heavenly horses’, which occupy a special place in the cultural traditions of both countries. For the Turkmen people, the Ahal-Teke horse is an important national symbol and an integral part of their historical heritage. In Chinese culture, the image of the legendary horse has long been associated with strength, nobility and prosperity. During the tour of the exhibition, the participants noted the historical connection between the two cultures, which dates back to the times of the Great Silk Road, when the exchange of traditions and ideas contributed to the formation of a common cultural space. It was noted that the exhibition was a sign of respect on the part of China for the national traditions of Turkmenistan and could contribute to the further development of museum cooperation, including the organisation of joint exhibitions and restoration projects.
IIR MFA launches second training course for young diplomats from Central Asia
10.03.2026The opening ceremony of the second regional training course for young diplomats from Central Asian countries was held at the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (IIR MFA) of Turkmenistan in Ashgabat. This was reported by the IIC. The ceremony was attended by representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, diplomats from missions accredited in the country, participants from regional states, teachers and students of the institute. The event is aimed at strengthening cooperation between young specialists from the region's foreign ministries. The training serves as a platform for exchanging experiences and developing joint approaches to current issues in Central Asia. It was noted that such meetings are shaping a new generation of diplomats focused on constructive dialogue.
Ashgabat and Beijing held a meeting of the Turkmen-Chinese working group
10.03.2026A meeting of the Turkmen-Chinese working group on humanitarian cooperation was held in China with the participation of representatives of relevant ministries of both countries. This was reported by IIC Turkmenistan. The Chinese delegation was headed by Gao Zheng, Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism of the People's Republic of China. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of bilateral humanitarian cooperation. Deputy Minister of Culture of Turkmenistan G. Myrataliyev emphasised that cooperation is developing on the basis of a strategic partnership and is based on the historical heritage of the Great Silk Road. The coordination of the initiatives ‘Revival of the Great Silk Road’ and the Chinese ‘Belt and Road Initiative’ was discussed, as well as the significance of the visit of the President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov to Beijing in September 2025. The results of previous cultural projects were noted: the cross-cultural Years of Culture 2023-2024, the installation of a monument to the Chinese poet Du Fu in Ashgabat and the ‘Melodies of the Silk Road — A Joyful Spring Festival’ in February 2026. Educational cooperation was discussed: more than 6,500 Turkmen students are studying in China, and more than 7,000 students in Turkmenistan are studying Chinese. The exchange of experience in social policy and inclusive education, as well as cooperation in the media, sports and tourism, were considered. The Turkmen side invited Chinese partners to participate in international events in Ashgabat in 2026, including the ‘Turkmentravel 2026’ tourism exhibition and the ‘Theatre Art in an Era of Happiness’ theatre festival. Following the meeting, both sides confirmed their readiness to further develop humanitarian cooperation and expand exchanges between relevant institutions.
Turkmenistan and Iraq expand diplomatic and economic ties
10.03.2026On 9 March, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Serdar Muhammetdurdyev met with Jassim Mohammed Al-Attar, Chargé d'Affaires of the Embassy of the Republic of Iraq in Turkmenistan. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. During the meeting, the Turkmen side warmly welcomed Iraq's decision to open an embassy in Ashgabat and confirmed its readiness to provide the necessary support for its full-fledged operation. Both sides noted that the opening of a diplomatic mission would strengthen bilateral relations in the political-diplomatic, trade-economic and cultural-humanitarian spheres. Particular attention was paid to the development of high-level contacts and political consultations between the foreign ministries of the two countries, the latest of which took place in October 2025 in Baghdad. The prospects for expanding trade and economic cooperation and cultural and humanitarian ties, including science, education, sports and tourism, were also discussed. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 2009, contacts between Turkmenistan and Iraq have been actively developing, especially in the international arena.
Women as a Spiritual Force of Society and a Strategic Resource for Development
09.03.2026In the contemporary era, the question of women’s place in society has ceased to be viewed solely as a social issue and has evolved into a significant component of strategic development, public governance, and international cooperation. Within the global political landscape, gender equality is recognized as one of the key prerequisites for economic growth, social stability, and sustainable peace. For this reason, recent years have witnessed a growing number of conferences, forums, and international dialogue platforms across various countries aimed at expanding opportunities for women. The international events held in Turkmenistan in 2025 – particularly the forums organized in Awaza – became a national reflection of this global trend. The issue of women’s rights and opportunities today is largely shaped by economic factors. According to data from the United Nations, increasing women’s economic participation has a direct impact on the growth of gross domestic product. Academic research confirms that in the absence of gender equality, economic potential remains underutilized. The Sustainable Development Goals adopted by the United Nations in 2015 included gender equality as a standalone objective (SDG 5). However, this goal is closely interconnected with other priorities, such as poverty reduction, quality education, healthcare, economic growth, and strong institutions. The achievement of these objectives is impossible without the active participation of women. Observed annually on March 8, International Women’s Day, supported by the United Nations, serves not only as a symbolic celebration but also as a platform for reporting and strategic planning. In addition, the annual sessions of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) held in New York provide states with an opportunity to assess gender policies and adopt new commitments. The work of these international structures demonstrates that the women’s agenda is not an ideological or narrowly social issue, but rather an indicator of a state’s development capacity. In Turkmenistan’s public policy, the role of women is developed in harmony with national values. A distinctive feature of this model is that gender equality is not viewed in opposition to traditions, but rather as a process grounded in them. The International Forum ‘From Commitment to Change: Women Driving the Awaza Programme of Action,’ held in August 2025 in the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone, was not merely an official event but a manifestation of the state’s strategic priorities. The discussions focused extensively on women’s economic opportunities, healthcare development, youth upbringing, and civic engagement. The events held on December 10 in Awaza further confirmed the systemic nature of this agenda. The International Conference titled ‘The Role of Women in Modern Society: Promoting International Cooperation for Sustainable Development,’ concluded with the adoption of a Final Declaration reaffirming commitment to the UN Charter, the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The document particularly emphasized the strategic role of women in social and economic development and in ensuring a sustainable future. Special attention was devoted to expanding women’s participation in public administration and civil society, developing their leadership potential, and strengthening the role of women’s organizations. The Declaration also highlighted women’s economic empowerment, support for entrepreneurship, the reduction of the digital gender gap, and ensuring equal access for girls and women to quality education and healthcare. It underscored women’s contributions to science, culture, ecology, and the fight against climate change, as well as their importance in the development of human capital. The need to expand international cooperation, exchange best practices, and create new dialogue platforms was also emphasized. The regular organization of such forums throughout the year demonstrates that this work is systemic rather than episodic. In 2024–2025, in cooperation with UN country offices, a number of projects were implemented to expand women’s economic opportunities, develop small businesses, and increase the participation of young girls in STEM fields. In this context, the advisory and analytical support provided by UN Women was of particular significance. The growing attention to women’s role at the state level is not accidental but represents a strategic necessity shaped by a complex set of systemic factors. First and foremost, this trend is directly linked to demographic characteristics. Women constitute a significant portion of the young population, and limiting their educational and professional opportunities may lead not only to social inequality but also to the underutilization of human capital. In a context where human capital is recognized as a key driver of modern development, restricting the potential of half the population hampers the full realization of a country’s intellectual, economic, and innovative capacity. Therefore, expanding women’s opportunities is not only a matter of social justice but also a crucial condition for a long-term development strategy. The economic factor is equally important. International studies confirm that increasing women’s participation in managerial and leadership positions positively influences the quality of decision-making. Diversity of professional and social experience contributes to more comprehensive strategic planning, more accurate risk assessment, and the development of effective solutions. In an era marked by economic diversification, technological innovation, and enhanced competitiveness, the inclusion of diverse perspectives becomes an essential condition for sustainable growth. In this regard, expanding women’s economic activity should be viewed as a rational step aimed at increasing overall efficiency. A third factor relates to international image and foreign policy dimensions. The level of gender equality development is included in various international rankings and analytical reports as an important indicator of a country’s progress. This criterion reflects not only the state of domestic social policy but also a country’s commitment to international obligations and modern development standards. Consequently, the gender agenda has become an important element of foreign policy positioning. From the perspective of sociological theory, the role of women in society passes through three stages: traditional, transitional, and transformational. Today, many countries are in the transformational stage, where women are perceived not only as guardians of the family institution but also as full participants in economic and political life. The Turkmen model seeks to harmonize transformational processes with national characteristics. Women retain their status as custodians of family values while simultaneously acting as active agents of social development. Such a dual model contributes to ensuring social stability. Today, the strategic role of women in social development is viewed not merely as an issue of equal opportunity but as a fundamental condition for long-term national development and international authority. The digital economy, ‘green’ growth, and the transformation of the education system all require the participation of highly qualified and active women. Therefore, the systemic measures undertaken in this direction demonstrate the modern and comprehensive nature of Turkmenistan’s development strategy.
The President of Turkmenistan signed a strategy for the development of scientific and medical diplomacy
09.03.2026On 6 March, during a government meeting, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan Batyr Mammedov presented a report on the activities of subordinate structures for January–February of this year. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. In the field of education, reforms to introduce modern teaching methods continued. Schoolchildren and students participated in international Olympiads and online competitions, winning medals. Meetings, conferences and seminars with foreign universities and diplomatic representatives were held using digital platforms. In science, quotas for the admission of postgraduate students and interns for 2026 have been approved, and research is being conducted in key areas of science and technology. Advanced treatment methods are being introduced in medicine, and children in need of care are receiving assistance from the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship. An international seminar on diplomacy in global health was held. In the field of sports, the country's athletes won 23 medals at international competitions. Scientific and practical conferences and events were held, dedicated to the motto of the year ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’. After hearing the report, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov emphasised the importance of educating the younger generation, strengthening the educational infrastructure, improving the quality of teaching, and developing science, sports and medicine. The Head of State signed a Decree ‘On the Approval of the National Strategy for the Development of Scientific and Medical Diplomacy in Turkmenistan for 2026-2052,’ under which the Head of State instructed the Deputy Prime Minister to implement the document.
The cultural sphere of Turkmenistan began the year with large-scale events
09.03.2026On 6 March, Deputy Chairwoman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan Bahar Seyidova reported on the work of the supervised sector for January–February 2026 during a government meeting. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. During this period, the country held events dedicated to the 2026 motto ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’, the 35th anniversary of independence, and national holidays. Cinemas in the capital organised film screenings and concerts, while cultural institutions – libraries, museums and historical and cultural complexes – continued to provide services to the public. An inter-state competition of television films from CIS countries, ‘The Flight of the Horse: Strength and Grace’, was also announced. The Oguzhan ‘Türkmenfilm’ Association held a series of events in Ashgabat and the velayats, including a week of films made during the years of independence. A forum was held in the capital to mark the presentation of two special awards by the TURKSOY organisation to the film ‘The Composer’. In addition, a joint Turkmen-Chinese cultural festival, ‘Melodies of the Silk Road — A Joyful Spring Festival’, was held. The archaeological exhibition ‘Ancient Civilisations of Turkmenistan’ continues in Rome. After hearing the report, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov emphasised the need for further development of the cultural sphere, the introduction of digital technologies in the work of libraries and museums, and instructed to continue work on the preservation of historical and cultural heritage and the preparation of upcoming cultural events.
The Mejlis of Turkmenistan strengthens interparliamentary ties with Belgium
09.03.2026On 6 March, in Brussels, as part of the 9th meeting of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan with the European Parliament, a meeting was held between the interparliamentary friendship groups of Turkmenistan and Belgium. This was reported by the press service of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan. During the meeting, the main directions of Turkmenistan's foreign policy, based on the principles of positive neutrality, peacefulness, trust, equality and humanism, were presented, as well as information on the structure of the national parliament and the work being done to provide legislative support for large-scale socio-economic reforms being implemented in various areas. During the exchange of views on the prospects for bilateral cooperation, it was noted that there is significant potential for expanding effective relations in the political-diplomatic, trade-economic and cultural-humanitarian spheres. The importance of interparliamentary cooperation in the development of intergovernmental cooperation was also emphasised, and it was noted that interparliamentary friendship groups established on a bilateral basis play a significant role in increasing its effectiveness. In addition, it was emphasised that inter-parliamentary friendship groups contribute to the exchange of experience in legislative activities between the two countries, familiarisation with opportunities for cooperation in various fields, and the strengthening of friendly relations between the peoples.
Turkmenistan reports growth in trade and industry
09.03.2026On 6 March, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan Nokerguly Atagulyev presented a report on the results of the work of the ministries, departments and business sector under his supervision for January–February of this year. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. The turnover of the Ministry of Trade and Foreign Economic Relations increased by 106.7% compared to the same period last year, and production increased by 100.5%. In the textile industry, production increased to 100.7%, with cotton yarn production at 100%, fabrics at 100.1% and leather goods at 103.7%. The production plan of the ‘Türkmenhaly’ State Association was fulfilled by 104.5%. During the reporting period, the State Commodity and Raw Materials Exchange held 50 trading sessions, during which 4,876 contracts were registered. The growth rate of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry's activities over two months was 128.1%; during this period, one exhibition and five conferences were organised. According to the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs, the growth in agricultural and food production reached 107.5%, and industrial production – 106.3%. After hearing the report, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov emphasised the need to fully utilise the capacity of commercial enterprises, monitor the supply of goods to markets, improve the quality of textile products, and develop the private sector.
A delegation from the Mejlis of Turkmenistan held interparliamentary talks in Brussels
09.03.2026A meeting between a delegation from the Mejlis of Turkmenistan and Belgian parliamentarians took place in Brussels. The negotiations were led by Belgian Senator and Member of the Flemish Parliament Stephanie D'Hose, who previously served as President of the Senate. This was reported by IIC. The Turkmen delegation was led by Maksat Kulyev, Chairman of the Committee of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan on International and Interparliamentary Relations. It included deputies of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan. During the meeting, the parties discussed the development of interparliamentary cooperation. The Turkmen delegation emphasised the role of parliamentary diplomacy in strengthening bilateral relations and presented information on socio-economic reforms in Turkmenistan, the activities of the Mejlis and the country's priorities in the areas of sustainable development, digitalisation, industry, ecology and international cooperation. Turkmenistan's interest in expanding interparliamentary and trade and economic ties with European partners was also noted. Belgian parliamentarians expressed interest in issues of Turkmenistan's economic development, key sectors of the economy and prospects for bilateral cooperation. They supported the strengthening of trade relations between Belgium and Turkmenistan and spoke in favour of developing direct contacts between the business communities of the two countries. Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their readiness to continue interparliamentary dialogue. The Belgian parliamentary delegation received an invitation to visit Turkmenistan for the next round of consultations.
Over 200 women in Turkmenistan have been awarded the title of ‘Ene mähri’
08.03.2026In Ashgabat and the administrative centres of the velayats, solemn ceremonies were held to honour women who have given birth to and raised eight or more children. According to a Decree by the President of Turkmenistan, they have been awarded the honorary title of ‘Ene mähri’, reports IIC. This year, more than two hundred women in the country have received this award. Holders of this honorary title are entitled to a number of social benefits, including additional payments and a 30% increase in monthly child care allowances and pensions. As the award winners note, state support and improved housing conditions are an important recognition of their work and contribution to the upbringing of the younger generation. The celebrations are timed to coincide with International Women's Day. According to tradition, cash gifts on behalf of the Head of State are presented to all women in the country — employees of enterprises and organisations, pensioners, as well as students, schoolgirls and kindergarten pupils. In honour of the holiday, concerts and festive events with the participation of creative groups are held in all velayats and the capital.
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