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Turkmenistan is developing its transit capacity and transport infrastructure
18.04.2026Turkmenistan, historically situated on the Great Silk Road, continues to develop its transport infrastructure and strengthen its transit potential. The country is regarded as a key hub for modern routes between Europe and Asia and is working to expand its trade and economic ties, reports TDH. On 10 April, the ‘Mary–Turkmenabat’ section of the ‘Ashgabat–Turkmenabat’ high-speed motorway was officially opened. The Head of State attended the ceremony. The project forms part of a large-scale road construction programme and the strengthening of the transport system. The ‘Ashgabat–Turkmenabat’ motorway is one of the country’s largest infrastructure projects. It ensures the rapid movement of transit cargo and connects the domestic road network with routes leading to the Asia-Pacific region. The route is designed to speed up transport and reduce logistics costs. Turkmenistan regularly raises transport issues at the UN as well. The country advocates for the development of global transport cooperation. On Turkmenistan’s initiative, the UN General Assembly adopted a number of relevant resolutions, including the document on the ‘Decade of Sustainable Transport (2026–2035)’, adopted on 15 December 2025. Particular attention is being paid to the development of Central Asia as a transport hub on the Great Silk Road. Multimodal corridors are being established in the region, providing access to the Black and Baltic Seas, as well as to the countries of South and South-East Asia, including China, India and Pakistan. Turkmenistan supports international initiatives, including the ‘Modal Highway for Central Asia’ project and the ‘Afghanistan–Turkmenistan–Azerbaijan–Georgia–Turkey’ transport corridor. The country also participates in the TRACECA programme. The sector’s development is enshrined in long-term strategies — the socio-economic development programme up to 2026 and the national programme up to 2052. These provide for the modernisation of roads, growth in transit traffic and the expansion of logistics routes. In 2025, construction also began on the ‘Turkmenbashi–Garabogaz–Kazakhstan’ border section, and the bridge across Garabogazköl Bay was opened. The project strengthens the region’s transport connectivity and opens up additional international routes. At the same time, the transport fleet is being renewed and bus services modernised, including the purchase of new buses for the capital. Urban and regional transport systems are being developed, including in the new city of Arkadag. Particular attention is being paid to the legal regulation of the sector and improving the quality of services. The Ministry of Road Transport of Turkmenistan is working to modernise standards and transport safety controls. Overall, the country’s transport strategy is aimed at expanding transit opportunities, attracting investment and integrating into international logistics chains.
CNPC plans to introduce new technologies in Turkmenistan’s gas industry
18.04.2026As part of the fourth phase of the ‘Galkynysh’ field development, plans are in place to establish a demonstration facility featuring cutting-edge technologies, efficient management, environmentally friendly solutions and mutual benefit. This was stated by Dai Houliang, Chairman of the China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC), at the International Scientific and Practical Conference ‘Turkmenistan – People’s Republic of China: 20 Years of Strategic Partnership in the Gas Sector’, reports the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. He noted that against the backdrop of global changes and the transformation of the world energy market, deepening cooperation between Turkmenistan and China in the energy sector is of strategic importance. According to him, CNPC is ready, with the support of the leadership of both countries, to develop an energy partnership and strengthen cooperation. The company will adhere to an approach of high standards and continuous improvement in the implementation of the ‘Galkynysh’ project. There are also plans to expand cooperation in the fields of new energy sources, oil refining, petrochemicals and engineering. Particular attention will be paid to the exchange of technologies in exploration and production, as well as the implementation of solutions based on artificial intelligence and big data in the gas industry. The forum in Ashgabat served as a platform confirming the development of long-term energy cooperation between Turkmenistan and China.
Ashgabat hosted a session of the FIFA's ‘Football for Schools’ project
18.04.2026A training session was held in Ashgabat on the main pitch of the ‘Ashgabat’ Multifunctional Stadium as part of the international FIFA's ‘Football for Schools’ initiative. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. The project is being implemented by the Football Federation of Turkmenistan and the Ministry of Education. It aims to develop sport for children and young people and to introduce football into the school curriculum. The session was attended by representatives of the relevant federation, PE teachers from all regions of the country and young footballers from leading clubs. The highlight was a masterclass featuring the renowned footballer Hristo Stoichkov, who arrived in Ashgabat as part of a delegation of FIFA experts. He presented practical and theoretical recommendations, demonstrated tactical formations and the basic elements of preparation for professional-level matches. A separate session was held for teachers. They were shown FIFA’s modern methods for developing playing skills and leadership qualities in schoolchildren. The FIFA's ‘Football for Schools’ programme aims to identify talent, strengthen social ties and promote team sports. Lessons on the rules of the game and discipline are provided for students. The initiative is expected to influence the physical education system and support the development of football in the country.
Turkmenistan to step up IT workforce training in partnership with ‘Huawei’
18.04.2026Deputy Minister Azat Atayev and ‘Huawei’s Vice President for Central Asia, Xu Hai, held negotiations at the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Education. The parties discussed expanding cooperation in the field of digitalisation of education, training personnel for the digital economy, and the implementation of artificial intelligence technologies. The development of the ‘Huawei ICT Academy’ was discussed separately. This refers to a training programme offering international certification (HCIA, HCIP and HCIE) in the fields of cloud technologies, AI and cybersecurity. Preliminary agreements were reached on launching pilot vouchers for students for ‘Huawei’ certification, drafting a memorandum on establishing an ICT Academy in Turkmenistan, localising AI training materials, and providing universities with access to a resource centre and courses. The achievements of Turkmen students in the ‘Huawei ICT Competition’ were also highlighted. The parties plan to involve lecturers more actively in international academic programmes. They agreed to move towards the practical implementation of joint projects.
Hero Arkadag: Turkmenistan is expanding cooperation in the gas sector
18.04.2026The fourth phase of commercial development of the ‘Galkynysh’ gas field has been launched in Turkmenistan. The ceremony was attended by the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. This was reported by the website AsmanNews. Hero Arkadag noted that the project is of key importance for the development of the country’s gas industry. Turkmenistan continues to put forward initiatives aimed at ensuring stable supplies of natural gas and developing international trade. A course towards environmentally-oriented energy has also been outlined. It was emphasised that the country’s resources are utilised both in the interests of Turkmenistan and for external partners, which strengthens the economy and contributes to the growth of the population’s well-being. Cooperation with the People’s Republic of China was highlighted in particular. China was one of the first countries to establish diplomatic relations with Turkmenistan. During a recent visit, new agreements were reached, including on the fourth phase of the ‘Galkynysh’ development. The new phase involves the construction of facilities to process 10 billion cubic metres of gas per year, as well as the relevant wells. The general contractor is the China National Petroleum Corporation, commissioned by the State Concern ‘Türkmengaz’. The project covers the full cycle of work – from drilling to the construction of infrastructure and social facilities. Upon completion, 1,041 jobs will be created. It is expected that the launch of the new facilities will increase gas exports and have a positive impact on the country’s economic development and the standard of living of the population. In conclusion, the Hero Arkadag congratulated those present at the ceremony on the start of the new phase of development of the ‘Galkynysh’ field.
Turkmenistan has begun the fourth phase of development of its largest gas field
18.04.2026On 17 April, in the presence of the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, and Member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and First Deputy Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China, Ding Xuexiang, a ceremony was held to mark the start of work on drilling production wells and constructing a commercial gas processing plant with a capacity of 10 billion cubic metres per year as part of the fourth phase of development of the ‘Galkynysh’ gas field. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. In the morning, Hero Arkadag arrived at the capital’s International Airport, from where the National Leader of the Turkmen people’s airliner took off for the Mary velayat. Shortly afterwards, Hero Arkadag’s aircraft landed at Mary International Airport. He then travelled by helicopter to the venue of the launch ceremony for the fourth phase of the field’s development, located in the Yoloten etrap. Ding Xuexiang’s plane also landed at Mary Airport, after which the Chinese delegation proceeded to the venue of the celebrations. An atmosphere of great enthusiasm prevailed at the ceremony site. Hero Arkadag was warmly welcomed by the participants and greeted the Head of the Chinese delegation. The celebration was accompanied by a literary and musical performance reflecting the long history of Turkmen-Chinese relations. The delegations viewed an exhibition featuring examples of national decorative and applied arts, costumes, jewellery and paintings. The exhibition showcased Turkmenistan’s historical heritage and modern achievements. The displayed examples of machinery and equipment highlighted the introduction of innovative technologies and compliance with international standards of industrial production. During the meeting, Hero Arkadag noted the strategic importance of the fourth phase of the ‘Galkynysh’ development programme for the development of the country’s energy sector and the strengthening of international cooperation. The importance of the partnership with China was highlighted as one of the key areas of Turkmenistan’s foreign economic strategy. Joint projects in the oil and gas sector are seen as a factor in the long-term strengthening of bilateral relations. A representative of the Chinese side noted the strategic importance of the cooperation and expressed confidence in the successful implementation of the new phase of the project. Following the speeches, the drilling rig was launched, and a ceremony was held to lay the foundation stone and mark the start of construction of the new facility. At the conclusion of the event, a celebratory sadaqah was held. Afterwards, Ding Xuexiang departed for China, whilst Hero Arkadag returned to Ashgabat. Thus, the fourth phase of the ‘Galkynysh’ field development forms a long-term foundation for strengthening Turkmenistan’s energy independence, expanding export routes and the country’s industrial development, whilst contributing to the sustainable economic growth of the entire region.
The Chechen Republic has received its first consignment of tomatoes from Turkmenistan
17.04.2026On 14 April, the first consignment of tomatoes from Turkmenistan was delivered to the Chechen Republic. The shipment was carried out in compliance with all phytosanitary requirements and the necessary certificates, according to the news agency Orient. Entering this new market reflects the expansion of trade and economic ties and the growth of Turkmenistan’s export potential. Turkmen tomatoes, renowned for their quality and environmental friendliness, already enjoy steady demand in foreign markets. The opening of this new supply route creates additional opportunities to increase exports and further promote the country’s agricultural produce abroad.
Turkmenistan and China have unveiled an AI robot capable of understanding the Turkmen language
17.04.2026The company ‘Aýdyň Gijeler’, in collaboration with the Chinese company ‘Inspur Group Co., Ltd’, is developing a robot equipped with artificial intelligence capabilities that supports the Turkmen language. This was reported by the online publication ‘Business Turkmenistan’. The prototype was unveiled at an international conference in Ashgabat marking the 20th anniversary of strategic cooperation between Turkmenistan and China in the gas sector. The exhibition was visited by a representative of the Chinese Communist Party leadership and First Vice-Premier of the State Council of the PRC, Ding Xuexiang, who spoke positively about developments in robotics and the advancement of AI in the Turkmen language. The project is seen as one of the first steps towards the introduction of artificial intelligence in Turkmenistan and could form the basis for the sector’s further development. The company ‘Aýdyň Gijeler’, established in 2016 with the support of the Ministry of Industry and Construction of Turkmenistan, is engaged in high-tech manufacturing and cooperates with Chinese electronics manufacturers.
The OSCE Centre in Ashgabat held a two-day seminar
17.04.2026A two-day seminar on combating corruption as a foundation for economic stability took place in Ashgabat from 15 to 16 April. The event, organised by the OSCE Centre, aimed to analyse Turkmenistan’s legislation and bring it into line with international standards set by the UN, the OECD and the Council of Europe, according to the news agency Orient. The programme included both theoretical discussions and the analysis of practical case studies. Representatives from the Mejlis, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of the Interior and the Prosecutor General’s Office, together with an expert from Latvia, examined anti-corruption strategies, the identification of risks within state structures and approaches to assessing the effectiveness of measures. William Leaf, Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat, noted that a key element in the fight against corruption is strengthening the accountability of governance. Participants also studied the experience of EU and Central Asian countries in criminalising corruption offences to further improve institutions. Particular attention was paid to the educational aspect: the materials produced are planned to be incorporated into the training of future lawyers and diplomats. Lecturers note that studying international practices will help to train specialists who are focused on good governance standards right from the training stage.
A collection of works by an outstanding Turkmen composer has been published in Moscow
17.04.2026A collection of selected works for violin and piano by the Turkmen composer Nury Halmammedov has been published in Moscow. The publication was prepared by the ‘Sounds of Dutar’ Foundation as part of a project to publish rarely performed works and marks the 10th anniversary of the festival of the same name, reports IIC. The book includes the composer’s key works, edited by violinist Leonora Dmyterko, which represent the pinnacle of his violin legacy. The collection brings together both well-known and previously unpublished works, reflecting a synthesis of national traditions and the European musical school. A special place is given to a new transcription of the fantasia from the ballet ‘The Decisive Step’, adapted for the first time for violin and piano. The publication is aimed at professional musicians, students and lovers of instrumental music. Work on the project took several years and was Leonora Dmyterko’s final undertaking: the collection was published in March 2026, and the violinist passed away in April. It has been decided to dedicate the concert at ‘Mosconcert’ on 29 April to her memory and to the presentation of this publication.
An international conference entitled ‘Youth Scientific Research’ is taking place in Turkmenistan
17.04.2026On 16 April, with the support of the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan, the Dovletmammet Azadi Turkmen National Institute of World Languages is hosting the online international scientific and practical conference ‘Youth Scientific Research’. This was reported by IIC. The event has been organised as part of the state policy in the field of science and education and the Strategy for the Development of Higher Education for 2026–2052. The conference comprises five sections covering issues of languages, linguistics, cultural interaction, teaching methods and translation. Participants are discussing the role of language in international relations, the humanities and intercultural communication. The forum is attended by students from Turkmenistan and representatives of universities from the UK, Germany, South Korea, China, Japan, Russia, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. The best academic papers will be published in the online journal ‘Issues of Philology’. The conference aims to develop the academic potential of young people, improve educational technologies and strengthen international cooperation.
Experts from China visited Turkmenistan’s leading health resorts
17.04.2026A Chinese delegation led by Tang Zhishu, Rector of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, visited the ‘Arçman’ and ‘Ýyly Suw’ health resorts in Turkmenistan, as well as the Kow Ata underground lake. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The guests were introduced to the resorts’ natural therapeutic resources and their potential for health improvement. Experts paid particular attention to the natural environment, noting its high therapeutic value. At Kow Ata, the delegation was introduced to the unique features of the underground lake and cave complex. Following the visit, the participants spoke highly of the country’s health resort infrastructure.
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