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In Turkmenistan, the results of the conference on promoting gender equality were summarized
27.03.2026Following the conference “Promoting Gender Equality: Gender Equality and Inter-Parliamentary Dialogue on Strengthening the Legislative Framework to Combat Gender-Based Violence”, held in Ashgabat, representatives of international organizations and Turkmenistan’s government bodies delivered remarks, the press service of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan reports. Kemal Goshliyev, Head of the UN Population Fund (UNFPA) representation in Turkmenistan, expressed gratitude to the Turkmen side for the high level of organization of the forum and highlighted the importance of international cooperation in advancing women’s rights. According to him, preventing violence against women is not only a legal task but also a crucial condition for sustainable development, social stability, and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Farrukh Usmonov, Executive Director of the Asian Forum of Parliamentarians on Population and Development, emphasized that the organization has supported parliamentarians’ work for over 40 years. He noted that the conference became an important platform for exchanging experiences between Asian and European countries in the field of gender equality. In his view, special attention should be given to improving legislation, cooperating with civil society, and expanding women’s access to education, employment, and entrepreneurship. Oguldzhennet Berdilieva, Chairperson of the National Center of Trade Unions of Turkmenistan and the Central Council of the Union of Women of Turkmenistan, stated that the country attaches great importance at the state level to ensuring equal rights and opportunities for women. She stressed that the legislative framework in this area is being progressively improved, and ongoing programs focus on supporting families, motherhood, childhood, and increasing women’s participation in public life. According to her, the conference outcomes will contribute to further development of international cooperation and the enhancement of legal mechanisms in the field of gender equality. Bayramgozel Myradova, Chairperson of the Committee on Science, Education, Culture, and Youth Policy of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan, said that the conference served as an effective platform to promote Turkmenistan’s positive experience on the international stage. She highlighted the importance of inter-parliamentary engagement, parliamentary diplomacy, and the exchange of legislative practices. In her view, the initiatives proposed during the dialogue will help expand women’s rights and opportunities, strengthen their social and economic protection, and further develop partnerships between parliaments. During the speeches, it was emphasized that gender equality is not only a matter of protecting women’s rights but also a key condition for building a just, sustainable, and democratic society.
Turkmenistan’s Achievements Over the Years of Independence Discussed in Seoul
27.03.2026On March 25, an international conference marking the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s independence was held at the Hankuk University of Foreign Studies (HUFS) in South Korea, according to the news website Asmannews. The event brought together representatives of government bodies, diplomats from Central Asian countries, faculty members, students, and media representatives. Turkmenistan’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, Begenc Durdiyev, spoke about the country’s achievements since gaining independence, emphasized the importance of Turkmenistan’s permanent neutrality, and presented the book by President Serdar Berdimuhamedow titled “Turkmenistan’s Neutrality — A Bright Path of Peace and Trust.” The conference also covered the development of Turkmen-Korean relations, including the growth of trade, the expansion of contacts and cultural-humanitarian cooperation, as well as prospects for economic collaboration. Special attention was given to the symbolism of the 2026 motto and the role of Akhal-Teke horses in Turkmen culture.
The Ashgabat forum emphasized the importance of humanitarianism and international cooperation
27.03.2026On March 26, the International Conference “Ynsanperwerlik ýoly” was held in a hybrid format in the conference hall of the Arçabil Hotel, timed to coincide with the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s independence. The forum brought together leaders of the National Society of the Red Crescent of Turkmenistan, the International Committee of the Red Cross, and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, as well as delegates from foreign Red Crescent societies participating online. This was reported by the publication "Turkmenistan: Golden Age". During the event, discussions focused on cooperation with international humanitarian organizations, the professional development of staff and volunteers, the exchange of experience, and the implementation of joint projects. Participants emphasized that the activities of National Red Crescent societies fully comply with the principles of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement — humanity, independence, and voluntarism. In their speeches, delegates noted that Turkmenistan’s foreign policy strategy, based on peacefulness, good-neighborliness, and humanitarianism, actively contributes to addressing global humanitarian challenges.
Turkmen basketball players played a scrimmage match against the Philippines
27.03.2026The Turkmenistan men’s 3x3 basketball team played a friendly match against the Philippine national team as part of their training camp, the IIC reports. The game served as a stage in preparation for international competitions. The players worked on tactical schemes and improved their individual skills in conditions similar to official matches. The coaching staff assessed the athletes’ physical condition and their coordination in both defense and offense. It is noted that participation in such matches helps accumulate competitive experience and prepares the team for continental tournaments.
Turkmenistan participated in the “India – Central Asia” conference
27.03.2026On March 25–26, 2026, an international conference titled “India – Central Asia: Connectivity, Security, and Sustainable Partnership in a Multipolar World” was held in New Delhi, the Turkmen Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported. A delegation from Turkmenistan participated in the event, led by G. Yusupova, Rector of the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The conference featured thematic sessions on political, economic, cultural, and humanitarian cooperation between India and the Central Asian countries. Speaking at the session “Strengthening Economic Cooperation between India and Central Asia”, G. Yusupova outlined Turkmenistan’s approaches to developing collaboration in this area.
The Russian Film Festival will be held in Ashgabat from March 27 to 29
27.03.2026From March 27 to 29, the Russian Film Festival will take place in Ashgabat. The event is organized by ROSKINO with the support of the Ministry of Culture of the Russian Federation, reports IIC. The program features new Russian films for family audiences, including both live-action and animated projects. The festival will open with a screen adaptation of Alexei Tolstoy’s fairy tale Buratino, directed by Igor Voloshin. Audiences will also be presented with the films Treasures of the Dwarfs, The Frog Princess, and the animated feature Doctor Dinosaurs. ROSKINO’s General Director, Elza Antonova, noted that the program is aimed at family viewing and combines traditional storylines with contemporary approaches. Alexander Zharov, General Director of Gazprom-Media Holding, emphasized that the projects share universal themes understandable to a wide audience. Svetlana Balanova, head of the National Media Group, highlighted the festival’s significance for fostering cultural dialogue between Russia and Turkmenistan. The festival is intended to strengthen humanitarian ties and expand cultural exchange.
Turkmenistan and Romania are developing cooperation in equestrian sports
27.03.2026On March 24, a meeting took place at the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Romania between the Ambassador of Turkmenistan, A. Annaev, and the President of the Romanian Equestrian Federation, Marilena Mladin, the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan reported. The parties discussed prospects for cooperation in horse breeding and equestrian sports. Special attention was given to the Akhal-Teke horse breed as a national symbol of Turkmenistan. The Turkmen side provided information on the development of the sector, including infrastructure modernization, the activities of the State Association “Turkmenatlary,” and the Aba Annaev International Academy of Horse Breeding. The National Turkmen Horse Festival was also discussed separately. It was noted that events held within its framework promote the exchange of expertise among specialists. At the conclusion of the meeting, both sides confirmed their readiness to develop cooperation, including the implementation of joint projects and professional exchanges.
Turkmenistan offers foreign investors preferential profit tax rates
27.03.2026At the “Turkmenistan – EU” business forum, Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy Babanyaz Yalakov presented the country’s investment climate. Foreign investors are offered a profit tax of 8%, or 2% if calculated based on revenue, according to Infoportal. The fiscal system has remained stable for over 20 years: six basic taxes with fixed rates, a property tax of 1%, and a personal income tax of 10%. Agricultural enterprises are exempt from most taxes. A preferential profit tax rate applies to both private and foreign capital. State loans are provided at 5% per annum for up to 10 years; for agricultural producers, the rate is 1% per annum for up to 7 years. Turkmenistan is establishing free economic zones along its borders with neighboring countries. The free trade zone with Uzbekistan has already increased trade turnover between the two countries. In 2025, the third phase of the Ashgabat–Turkmenabat highway is planned to open, strengthening transport links with Uzbekistan. The Deputy Minister highlighted the country’s transit potential as a competitive advantage. Turkmenistan has seven international airports and participates in the East–West, North–South, and Azure corridors connecting Afghanistan and Turkey. In terms of integration into the global trade system, work continues on joining the WTO and adapting national legislation to its standards. International assessments of the country are improving: in July 2025, Fitch confirmed Turkmenistan’s credit rating at “B-” with a positive outlook, and the World Bank included the republic in the Business Ready system for assessing the business climate.
Expansion of trade and economic ties with the EU was discussed in Ashgabat
27.03.2026On March 26, the business forum “New Horizons for Strengthening Connectivity, Attracting Investment and Sustainable Development” was held at the capital’s Ýyldyz Hotel as part of expanding the multifaceted dialogue between Turkmenistan and the European Union. It was attended by representatives of Turkmenistan’s state institutions, diplomatic missions, international organizations and foreign businesses, AsmanNews reported. The participants discussed the development of cooperation between Turkmenistan and the European Union, including the improvement of the business environment, expansion of trade and attraction of investment. Particular attention was paid to strengthening the legal framework for entrepreneurship and supporting private sector exports. During the forum, the importance of integration into the global trading system and advancing Turkmenistan’s accession process to the World Trade Organization was noted. According to the participants, this would create additional opportunities for attracting investment and technologies. The second session addressed issues of transport and logistics connectivity. The discussions focused on the digitalization of customs procedures, trade facilitation and infrastructure development within the East–West and North–South international corridors. The third session was devoted to the green economy, renewable energy sources and the reduction of methane emissions. The participants discussed the introduction of environmentally friendly technologies and the expansion of cooperation with European partners in this area. As part of the forum, a number of bilateral documents aimed at developing investment cooperation were signed. Following the event, the participants noted the potential for further strengthening partnership. Bilateral meetings between representatives of state institutions, businesses and European partners were also held on the sidelines of the forum.
President of Turkmenistan received congratulations from the ECO Secretary-General
27.03.2026Secretary-General of the Economic Cooperation Organization Asad Majeed Khan sent a congratulatory letter to President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov on the occasion of Oraza and Nowruz holidays. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. In his message, he extended warm wishes to the Government and people of Turkmenistan. The ECO chief expressed hope that the holidays would contribute to strengthening peace, prosperity and cooperation in the region, as well as to fostering friendly relations and solidarity among countries.
The Turkmen Ambassador in Islamabad received the new Portuguese Ambassador
26.03.2026On 25 March, the new Portuguese Ambassador to Pakistan, Paulo Miguel Guedes Domingues, paid a visit to the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Islamabad to meet with the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to Pakistan, Atajan Movlamov. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. During the meeting, the Turkmen Ambassador congratulated the Portuguese diplomat on his appointment and wished him success and fruitful work in Pakistan. The parties discussed issues relating to the functioning of the diplomatic corps in the Pakistani capital and cooperation with the country’s state and private organisations. Following the negotiations, both sides reaffirmed their mutual desire to maintain regular contacts within the diplomatic community.
Turkmen trade unions are strengthening their cooperation with the International Labour Organisation
26.03.2026A delegation from the National Trade Union Centre of Turkmenistan visited the headquarters of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) in Geneva. The purpose of the visit was to align national labour mechanisms with international standards and to prepare joint projects, according to the news agency Orient. The Roadmap for 2026 was the focus of discussions. Turkmenistan reaffirmed its intention to strengthen cooperation with the ILO, including the modernisation of legislation in line with ratified conventions, the monitoring of working conditions and the creation of digital databases to analyse compliance with labour rights. Particular attention was paid to the principles of ‘Decent work’, expanding employment and social protection. The delegates examined the work of the ILO Bureau for Workers’ Activities (ACTRAV) and discussed reporting issues to align national practices with the organisation’s technical requirements. The visit also served as preparation for the International Labour Conference in Geneva in June 2026, where Turkmenistan will be able to exchange experiences and present its achievements in the protection of workers’ rights.
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