News
Ashgabat is preparing for the international exhibition ‘Cooperation and Development’
30.03.2026Nokerguly Atagulyev, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan, delivered a report on preparations for the ‘Cooperation and Development’ International Universal Exhibition, due to be held in the capital this April. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. According to him, 80 companies from Turkmenistan and abroad, representing various sectors, have so far confirmed their participation in the exhibition. Registration of participants is ongoing. The exhibition will feature equipment and machinery, metal products and building materials, chemical products and other goods. The Deputy Prime Minister also submitted a proposal regarding the organisation of the event to the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, for consideration. Having heard the report, the Head of State noted that international forums are regularly held in the country, contributing to the strengthening of trade and economic ties with other states. The President of Turkmenistan instructed the Deputy Prime Minister to ensure a high standard of preparation and organisation for the Universal International Exhibition ‘Cooperation and Development’ in Ashgabat.
The fifth anniversary of the Charitable Foundation was celebrated in Turkmenistan
30.03.2026On 29 March, celebrations were held in Turkmenistan to mark the fifth anniversary of the establishment of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship. The events took place in the festival square in the city of Arkadag, according to AsmanNews. At the start of the celebrations, a congratulatory address from the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, was read out. It noted that supporting children and safeguarding the health of mothers and children remain priorities of state policy. During the event, a Decree by the Head of State was read out awarding state honours to a number of individuals for their contribution to the development of charitable activities. The ‘Arkadag’ medals were presented to Narine Sahakyan, Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme in Turkmenistan, and Jalpa Ratna, Head of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Office in Turkmenistan. Congratulatory speeches were delivered by the Speaker of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan, D. Gulmanova, the Deputy Chairwoman of the Cabinet of Ministers, B. Seyidova, and other participants. They highlighted the importance of the Foundation’s work in supporting children. Representatives of international organisations emphasised the development of cooperation with Turkmenistan in the humanitarian sphere. In particular, they highlighted the implementation of joint projects with UNICEF and the United Nations Development Programme. O. Atabayeva, Vice-President for Medical Activities at the Charitable Foundation, reported that since its establishment in 2021, the Foundation has been providing medical and social assistance to children. According to her, programmes for treatment, rehabilitation and prevention are being implemented. It was noted that the Foundation is expanding its international cooperation. Memoranda of Cooperation have been signed with UNICEF, the Soong Ching Ling Foundation of China and the Heydar Aliyev Foundation. International conferences and meetings dedicated to child protection issues are being held. Following the official proceedings, a festive concert took place featuring artists, creative groups and pupils from children’s art schools. At the conclusion of the event, an Appeal to the President of Turkmenistan was adopted.
A coordination meeting on the Pandemic Fund project took place in Ashgabat
30.03.2026On 27 March, a National Coordination Meeting was held in Ashgabat on the Pandemic Fund project ‘Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response’ as part of the ‘One Health’ approach in Central Asia. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The event was organised by the WHO, FAO and the World Bank in collaboration with national and regional partners. Representatives from relevant ministries, international organisations and development partners, including The World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) and The Regional Environmental Centre for Central Asia (CAREC), took part in the meeting. Participants discussed achievements for 2024–2025, priorities for 2026, improved coordination and solutions to programme implementation challenges. A series of technical sessions facilitated the exchange of experiences and the development of comprehensive measures against health threats. During the meeting, participants reaffirmed their commitment to cross-sectoral and intergovernmental cooperation, emphasising its importance in reducing the risks of future pandemics. Launched in 2024, the project covers Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan and aims to strengthen disease surveillance, laboratory capacity, workforce training and health system management within the framework of ‘One Health’.
Youth from Turkmenistan is participating in an educational program in India
29.03.2026A youth delegation from Turkmenistan, alongside representatives from other Central Asian countries, is participating in an orientation program in India from March 24 to April 2, 2026, according to the news website Turkmenportal. The visit takes place in Mumbai, Goa, and New Delhi and includes meetings with officials as well as visits to scientific, educational, and cultural sites. In Mumbai, participants visited the Bombay Stock Exchange, the Indian Institute of Technology, and several landmark attractions, including the Elephanta Caves, the Gateway of India, and the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Museum. They also held a meeting with the Governor of Maharashtra. On March 28, the delegation is in Goa, exploring the region’s historical and cultural sites. In the coming days, visits to the National Institute of Oceanography and a meeting with the state governor are planned. The program will conclude in New Delhi with meetings with Indian ministers, participation in the Mera Yuva Bharat youth initiative, and a visit to Humayun’s Tomb. The project is implemented as part of youth diplomatic exchange between India and Central Asian countries and aims to promote humanitarian cooperation in the fields of science, technology, culture, and entrepreneurship.
A working mission on the TCTC program took place in Turkmenistan
29.03.2026In Tashkent in November 2025, the European Union, GIZ, and Expertise France signed a tripartite agreement to launch the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor (TCTC) Capacity Development Program, the IIC reports. The program aims to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of the TCTC — a route connecting Central Asia with Europe. The initiative’s goal is to establish a predictable and competitive transport corridor that promotes economic growth and regional development. The program is scheduled for implementation from 2026 to 2029 and is carried out by GIZ in partnership with Expertise France. From March 24 to 27, 2026, a working mission took place in Turkmenistan, led by Asel Uzagalieva, Deputy Head of the “Trade Facilitation in Central Asia” (TFCA) project. The delegation included representatives from Expertise France. The purpose of the visit was to meet with public and private institutions to identify priority activities. Discussions were held with the Ministry of Trade and Foreign Economic Relations, the Ministry of Finance and Economy, the State Plant Quarantine Service, the Ministry of Agriculture, the Turkmenistan Transport and Logistics Center (TULM), as well as the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs of Turkmenistan. The delegation also visited the Turkmenbashi International Sea Port and met with representatives of the State Maritime and River Transport Service and the port management to discuss further cooperation.
A protocol has been signed to the memorandum between Turkmenistan and GIZ
29.03.2026Turkmenistan’s Minister of Trade and Foreign Economic Relations, Nazar Agakhanov, and GIZ Coordinator in Turkmenistan, Joachim Fritz, signed a protocol amending the Memorandum of Understanding from March 2024, the IIC reports. The document provides for the continued implementation of the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor Capacity Development Program in Turkmenistan. The program was launched following the International Investors Forum on the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor held in Tashkent in November 2025. At that time, the European Union, Germany, and France signed a tripartite agreement on its implementation. The initiative aims to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of the transport route connecting Central Asia and Europe. The program’s implementation in the region is scheduled for 2026–2029. The project will be carried out with financial support from the EU, Germany, and France, with the involvement of GIZ and Expertise France.
Judges of Turkmenistan discussed the development of the judicial system and legal reform
29.03.2026On March 28, the VIII Conference of Judges of Turkmenistan was held at the “Adalat” Palace, with participation from representatives of the Supreme Court, the Arbitration Court, as well as judges from provincial, city, and district courts. The main topic of discussion was the challenges facing the country’s judicial system, AsmanNews reports. Conference participants reviewed the implementation of the Action Plan for the Development Program of the Judicial System for 2022–2028. In particular, discussions focused on improving judicial proceedings, ensuring transparency in the administration of justice, and aligning court decisions with national legislation and international standards. The event also summarized the results of the “Exemplary Court” competition of the International Year of Peace and Trust, examined the “Exemplary Court” review among courts across the country, and considered the “Best Judge” award for first-instance judges. Other topics included enhancing judicial procedures, amending legal acts, preparing methodological guides, and improving the qualifications of judges and court staff. Special attention was given to implementing the directives of the country’s President, adopting advanced practices and modern methodologies, and organizing specialized training courses. Among the discussed subjects were the implementation of the 2026 Work Plan and the new edition of the Code of Judicial Ethics. Following the conference, corresponding decisions were adopted.
The President of Turkmenistan received congratulations on Nowruz and Eid al-Fitr
29.03.2026President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov received congratulations from foreign leaders, reports TDH. President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko congratulated the Turkmen leader on the National Spring Holiday – International Nowruz Day. The letter noted that the holiday symbolizes warmth, joy, and hope for the future. Lukashenko emphasized Belarus’s readiness to develop friendly and partnership relations with Turkmenistan and expressed confidence that bilateral dialogue would serve the interests of citizens and stability in Eurasia. King Mohammed VI of Morocco congratulated the President of Turkmenistan on Eid al-Fitr, wishing him good health and happiness.
Hero-Arkadag congratulated the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Foundation on its fifth anniversary
29.03.2026National Leader of the Turkmen People, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov delivered remarks on March 28 on the occasion of the 5th anniversary of the establishment of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship. This was reported by AsmanNews. In his address, he congratulated the President of Turkmenistan, the Foundation’s members, and the entire nation on the significant date, noting that the principles of Turkmen humanism are rooted in deep antiquity and continue today under the leadership of the head of state. The National Leader of the Turkmen people emphasized that ensuring a happy life and comprehensive development for children remains a priority in the current era of national revival, as does the creation of conditions for their physical, intellectual, and spiritual growth. Hero-Arkadag noted that since the Foundation’s establishment, thousands of children have received the necessary support and medical assistance, enabling them to actively engage in education, creativity, and sports. He also stressed the importance of intergenerational ties and the role of the Council of Elders in fostering respect for traditions and promoting mentorship. In conclusion, Hero-Arkadag wished the younger generation good health, a quality education, and all-round development, and expressed his hope that the Foundation’s members would achieve new success in their noble work for the benefit of children and in strengthening the prestige of the Motherland.
Results of the Charitable Foundation’s activities discussed in Arkadag City
29.03.2026On March 28, the National Leader of the Turkmen People and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, paid a working visit to the city of Arkadag, where he chaired a meeting of the Board of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship, dedicated to the fifth anniversary of its establishment. This was reported by TDH. In the morning, Hero-Arkadag was warmly welcomed at the headquarters of the Charitable Foundation, after which the Board meeting began with the participation of its members, the chairman of the State Committee for the Construction of Arkadag City under the President of Turkmenistan, and the city’s hyakim (mayor). During the meeting, reports were presented on the Foundation’s activities aimed at providing social support to children in need of guardianship, safeguarding their health, and creating conditions for their comprehensive development. O. Atabayeva, Vice President of the Foundation for Medical Activities, congratulated Hero-Arkadag and President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov on the Foundation’s anniversary. She noted that young citizens who had received treatment and regained their health thanks to the Foundation are actively engaged in their studies, creative pursuits, and the acquisition of new skills. Since the Foundation’s establishment, 758 surgeries have been performed, while 2,467 children have received comprehensive treatment at the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Children’s Health and Rehabilitation Center using innovative technologies and natural remedies of local origin. In addition, the Foundation organized visits to the Principality of Monaco, the Republic of Uzbekistan, the Republic of Azerbaijan, the People’s Republic of China, the Russian Federation, and the State of Qatar, which resulted in the adoption of important decisions. In 2025, memoranda of understanding were signed with the UNICEF Office in Turkmenistan, the Soong Ching Ling Foundation of China, and the Heydar Aliyev Foundation. The National Leader of the Turkmen People emphasized the importance of expanding international cooperation and intensifying the exchange of experience. He also focused attention on awarding winners of international competitions, modernizing the Bazar Amanov State Children’s Library, and strengthening the material and technical base of the “Jahan” Creative Center. R. Bazarov, Vice President of the Foundation, noted in his report the measures being taken to ensure the right of children in need of guardianship to full participation in society, including medical and material support. In particular, pediatric hospital departments were supplied with hemodialysis machines manufactured by B. Braun (Germany), which have significantly improved children’s recovery outcomes. R. Bazarov also reported on the construction of a mosque in the city of Fuzuli (Republic of Azerbaijan) as an example of the humanitarian principles of the people, while the Council of Elders under the Foundation is engaged in introducing the younger generation to national spiritual values. D. Orazov, Chairman of the State Committee for the Construction of Arkadag City, informed participants about the progress of the second phase of the city’s construction, including facilities of the medical cluster. Products of “Arkadag Medisina Klasteri Menejment”, including baby food, have received international recognition, winning the “Product of the Year” gold medal and a diploma at a trade exhibition in Moscow in September last year. The National Leader stressed the need to adhere to the implementation schedule for these projects. G. Mammedova, the city’s hyakim, highlighted the significance of the Foundation as a stronghold of humanism and spoke about preparations for festive celebrations at “Arkadag Binasy” Square, which will be attended by children, their parents, heads of ministries and agencies, representatives of diplomatic missions, and young people. Hero-Arkadag underscored the importance of coordinated work among all involved structures and the active participation of different generations. During the meeting, specific instructions were given to Board members and Foundation staff: to monitor the implementation of assigned tasks, introduce innovative technologies, ensure the effective use of financial resources, strengthen the legislative framework, and actively promote the Foundation’s activities at both the national and international levels. Concluding the event, Hero-Arkadag once again congratulated all participants on the fifth anniversary of the Foundation, emphasizing the importance of its activities for the future of Turkmenistan’s children, and then departed the venue.
Turkmenistan and Japan discussed digital transformation and green technologies
28.03.2026The Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Japan, A. Bayramov, held a meeting with Taro Kono, Director-General of the International Bureau of the Liberal Democratic Party of Japan, the IIC reports. The parties discussed the development of bilateral relations and the potential establishment of direct contacts between the Democratic Party of Turkmenistan and the Liberal Democratic Party of Japan. Special attention was given to cooperation in artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and green technologies. They also addressed issues of youth diplomacy, participation in international leadership programs, scientific and innovative collaboration, and trade and economic policy. The Ambassador expressed his gratitude for the contribution to the development of Turkmen-Japanese relations. Taro Kono has previously held the positions of Minister of Digital Transformation, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Minister of Defense of Japan.
In Ashgabat, the winners of the OMOUS-2026 Olympiad were awarded
28.03.2026At the International University of Humanities and Development, the closing ceremony of the VI Open International Mathematics Olympiad OMOUS-2026 took place, the IIC reports. In the team competition, the most awards were won by the teams from Turkmenistan (13), Uzbekistan (10), and Russia (7). Prize-winning positions were also secured by participants from Greece, Iran, Tajikistan, and the Netherlands. In the individual competition, representatives from Turkmenistan led with 198 medals. Uzbekistan took second place with 103 medals, and Russia came third with 30 awards. The closing ceremony featured performances by the creative ensembles “Mukam,” “Mengli,” and “Dovlet,” as well as university students. The organizers noted that holding the Olympiad contributes to the development of international scientific cooperation and the exchange of academic experience.
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