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A madrasah in the city of Arkadag will be built in accordance with Islamic principles
16.09.2026The National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, has recommended that the principles recognised in the Islamic world be taken into account during the construction and fitting out ofthe madrasah in the city of Arkadag. This was reported by the news agency TDH. During a working visit, the National Leader of the Turkmen people inspected the progress of construction at the ‘Arkadagyň ruhy metjidi’ mosque, where he was shown plans for the madrasah’s classrooms and the facilities for student education. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov instructed officials to study international experience in the construction and equipping of similar educational institutions, as well as to focus on strengthening the material and technical base and applying international standards in the organisation of the educational process. D. Orazov, Chairman of the State Committee for the Construction of the City of Arkadag under the President of Turkmenistan, reported that the complex is designed to provide facilities for study, teaching staff, student accommodation and leisure. The Chief Imam of the Mosque, Yalkap Hojagulyev, provided an update on the progress of construction and the materials being used, whilst also noting that lessons had been learnt from international experience in the construction of madrasas and the equipping of classrooms.
A triumph in Kronenberg: Turkmenistan showcases its winged horses to the world
16.09.2026Ahal-Teke horses are an integral part of the historical and cultural heritage of the Turkmen people. The breed originated in what is now Turkmenistan and is considered one of the oldest in the world. One of the key events for the modern development and international promotion of the Ahal-Teke breed was the World Equestrian Championships and the Ahal-Teke Beauty Contest, which took place from 4 to 6 September 2026. The events were attended by the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. The championship was the centrepiece of a large-scale programme combining sporting, scientific and cultural events. The programme included an open session of the International Ahal-Teke Horse Association, an international scientific and practical conference, the presentation of the book ‘A Horse – A Symbol of Faithfulness and Happiness’ in Dutch, and an exhibition dedicated to Turkmen culture and horse-breeding traditions. The championship itself served as a prominent platform for showcasing Ahal-Teke racehorses. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov’s participation lent the event a special international dimension. Hero Arkadag emphasised the championship’s significance for further enhancing the international prestige of Ahal-Teke racehorses and expanding cooperation in this field. According to the Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, holding the events in Kronenberg was a gesture of respect towards Turkmenistan, its history and culture as the homeland of the Ahal-Teke breed. As part of his visit, Hero Arkadag also took part in the closing ceremony of the competition. On behalf of the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, the winner was awarded the main prize – the ‘Grand Prix’ in the ‘World Champion among Ahal-Teke Horses’ category. Thus, the championship in the Netherlands became not only a sporting competition but also an international platform for showcasing Ahal-Teke horses in the fields of equestrian sport, scientific research and cultural heritage. This combination of sporting, scientific and cultural elements was one of the distinctive features of the event. The programme of Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov’s visit extended well beyond his participation in the championship itself. An open meeting of the International Ahal-Teke Horse Association was held in Kronenberg, attended by representatives of the international horse breeding community. During the meeting, the prospects for the further development of the breed and for international cooperation were discussed. Hero Arkadag proposed holding the World Ahal-Teke Horse Championship every five years. The meeting’s participants supported this proposal. Areas for further work were also identified, including expanding the participation of Ahal-Tekes in international equestrian sport, the development of scientific research, veterinary medicine and the exchange of expertise. Particular attention was paid to creating conditions for the preservation of the breed’s genetic pool and the development of international scientific links. Among the proposals was an initiative to establish an International Ahal-Teke Horse Fund. The scientific programme continued at the international conference ‘Ahalteke bedewi: türkmeniň dünýewi seýisçilik sungaty’ (‘The Ahal-Teke Horse: Turkmen Art of Universal Horse Breeding’). The conference was attended by scientists and horse-breeding specialists from more than 20 countries. The topics of the parallel sessions included the history and development of the Ahal-Teke breed, its influence on global horse-breeding culture, issues of selection and veterinary care, the genetic foundations for preserving the breed’s purity, as well as the depiction of the racehorse in fine and decorative-applied arts. The championship thus became a unique focal point, bringing together scientific research, cultural projects, professional networking and the presentation of national traditions. A significant international milestone was the inclusion, on 5 December 2023, of the national nomination ‘Art of Ahal-Teke horse breeding and traditions of horses' decoration’ on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This decision relates to the body of knowledge and traditions associated with the breeding, rearing and decoration of Ahal-Teke horses. Therefore, the preservation of this heritage involves not only sustaining the breed itself, but also passing on professional skills, the traditions of seysis and the art forms associated with horse breeding. In the Netherlands, this theme was given practical expression. As part of the championship, an exhibition was held dedicated to Turkmen culture, horse breeding, crafts and traditions. Visitors were able to familiarise themselves with national equestrian equipment, jewellery, carpets, clothing and other elements of cultural heritage. A special feature was the presentation of the Dutch edition of Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov’s book ‘A Horse – A Symbol of Faithfulness and Happiness’. First published in 2019, the book is dedicated to the role of the horse in the history and life of the Turkmen people, the traditions of horse breeding and the distinctive features of the Ahal-Teke breed. Its translation has broadened the Dutch audience’s understanding of Turkmen equestrian culture. The Netherlands was not chosen as the venue for the championship by chance: Kronenberg is one of Europe’s renowned centres for equestrian sport. It was here that representatives from various countries, professional riders, academics, specialists and enthusiasts of the Ahal-Teke breed were brought together. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov’s visit to the Netherlands formed part of a wider effort to promote Ahal-Teke horse breeding internationally. Even before the 2026 championship, Hero Arkadag had visited equestrian facilities abroad and discussed issues of international cooperation in the field of horse breeding. In particular, during a trip to the USA, the Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan visited the ‘La Victoria’ equestrian complex, whilst in Germany he held a working meeting on preparations for international equestrian events. The championship demonstrated that the further development of Ahal-Teke horse breeding is linked to the preservation of traditions, scientific research into the breed, participation in international competitions and the expansion of professional cooperation. The programme of events continued on 12 September at the ‘Ruhyýet’ Palace in the city of Arkadag, where a high-level conference entitled ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses: A Space of Peace, Friendship and Cooperation’ was held. It was attended by representatives of the Government, ministries and departments, diplomatic missions and international organisations, as well as civil society organisations and young people. International attention to the results of the championship was also reflected in a letter from Marian Weltevreden, Head of the European Ahal-Teke Horse Association, addressed to the National Leader of the Turkmen people. The letter highlighted the significance of the event held in the Netherlands for promoting the Ahal-Teke breed and expanding international cooperation. Thus, the Ahal-Teke racehorse was presented not only as a representative of an ancient breed, but also as a link between Turkmenistan’s historical heritage and modern international equestrian sport.
Turkmenistan and Korea are strengthening the legal framework for cooperation in education
16.09.2026As part of the state visit by the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, to the Republic of Korea, documents on cooperation in the fields of education, science and youth policy were signed on 15 September. This was reported by the press office of the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan. In particular, the following were concluded: ‘Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan and the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family of the Republic of Korea on cooperation in the field of youth policy’; ‘Memorandum of Understanding between the Turkmen State Institute of Economics and Management (Turkmenistan) and Sungkyunkwan University (Republic of Korea)’; ‘Memorandum of Understanding between the Institute of Engineering, Technology and Transport Communications of Turkmenistan (Turkmenistan) and the Korea University of Technology and Education (KOREATECH)’; ‘Memorandum of Understanding between the Oguz Han University of Engineering and Technology of Turkmenistan and the Korea University of Technology and Education (KOREATECH)’; ‘Memorandum of Understanding between the International University for the Humanities and Development (Turkmenistan) and Incheon National University (Republic of Korea)’; ‘Memorandum of Understanding between the International University for the Humanities and Development and Kyung Hee University’; ‘Cooperation Agreement between the Scientific Centre for Strategic Studies of the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan and the Seoul National University Asia Center’; ‘Cooperation Agreement between the Dovletmammet Azadi Turkmen National Institute of World Languages and Kangwon National University’. The documents provide for the expansion of cooperation between higher education institutions, the development of academic exchanges and the training of qualified personnel. They are also aimed at strengthening cooperation in the fields of youth policy, science and the introduction of innovative technologies into education. The signing of the documents forms part of the ongoing development of cooperation between Turkmenistan and the Republic of Korea in the fields of education and science.
Turkmen football club ‘Arkadag’ got off to a winning start in the AFC Champions League 2
16.09.2026‘Arkadag’ Football Club beat Bahrain’s ‘Al-Muharraq’ 1–0 in their first match of the AFC Champions League 2 group stage. The Group B fixture took place at the ‘Arkadag’ Stadium in Turkmenistan, according to IIC of Turkmenistan. The only goal came in the 52nd minute, scored by Mekan Saparov with a precise header from a corner. Towards the end of the match, ‘Arkadag’ goalkeeper Rustem Ahallyev saved several shots from the opposition and kept a clean sheet. The match, played at the 10,000-capacity stadium, was officiated by a team of referees from Sri Lanka. ‘Arkadag’ have now secured three points. In the next round on 14 October, the Turkmen club will play away against ‘Al-Jazira’.
The Head of Turkmenistan has been awarded the title of ‘Honorary Doctor of Political Science’
16.09.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, has been awarded the title of ‘Honorary Doctor of Political Science’ by Sungkyunkwan University in the Republic of Korea. The formal ceremony took place on 15 September as part of the Head of Turkmenistan’s state visit to the Republic of Korea, according to the news agency TDH. The decision to award the honorary title was taken by Sungkyunkwan University in recognition of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov’s contributions to the development of international cooperation, the strengthening of political and diplomatic ties, and the socio-economic development of Turkmenistan. The document conferring the degree highlights the Head of State’s experience in foreign policy, law-making, local self-government and the economy, as well as his contribution to the development of the digital economy and the diversification of the national economy. The ceremony took place in the main conference hall of Sungkyunkwan University. Before the ceremony began, those present were briefed on the key achievements of the President of Turkmenistan. Yoo Ji-beom, President of Sungkyunkwan University, emphasised the significance of the honorary degree for the development of friendly relations between Turkmenistan and the Republic of Korea. Following this, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov was presented with the diploma, and a commemorative photo session took place. Speaking at the ceremony, the Head of Turkmenistan expressed his gratitude to the management and staff of Sungkyunkwan University for conferring the honorary title. Serdar Berdimuhamedov emphasised the importance of cooperation in the field of education and highlighted Sungkyunkwan University’s collaboration with the International University for the Humanities and Development and the Oguz Han University of Engineering and Technology. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov also highlighted the prospects for joint educational initiatives, including exchanges of students, lecturers and researchers, as well as the training of specialists in the fields of artificial intelligence, engineering, energy, digital technologies and industrial management. Sungkyunkwan University dates back to 1398. According to the university, the honorary degree was first awarded in 1957. To date, 101 people have been awarded this honour, including the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, in 2015.
The President of Turkmenistan congratulated the President of Mexico on Independence Day
16.09.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, has congratulated the President of the United Mexican States, Claudia Sheinbaum, and the people of the country on their national holiday — Independence Day. This was reported by AsmanNews. The Head of State wished the President of Mexico good health and happiness, and the people of the country peace, progress and prosperity.
Ashgabat and Seoul discussed the development of parliamentary cooperation
16.09.2026On 15 September, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov met with Cho Jeong-sik, Speaker of the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea, as part of his state visit to the Republic of Korea. This was reported by the news agency TDH. Cho Jeong-sik highlighted the importance of the visit of the Head of Turkmenistan for the further development of inter-parliamentary and inter-state relations. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov conveyed greetings to the Speaker of the National Assembly from the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. The parties discussed the development of inter-parliamentary cooperation as one of the mechanisms for strengthening mutual trust and understanding between the two countries. Particular attention was paid to the activities of the Turkmen-Korean Inter-Parliamentary Friendship Group. The inter-parliamentary friendship groups of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan and the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea have been cooperating since 2015. The initiative of the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Hero Arkadag, to establish a new format for inter-parliamentary cooperation was also noted. The first Turkmen-Korean consultative meeting took place in September 2023, and the second in October 2024. At the conclusion of the meeting, the parties expressed their confidence in the further development of Turkmen-Korean relations across a wide range of areas.
Serdar Berdimuhamedov met with the Prime Minister of South Korea
16.09.2026On 15 September, the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, held a meeting with the Prime Minister of the Republic of Korea, Han Seong-sook, as part of a state visit to the Republic of Korea. This was reported by AsmanNews. During the negotiations, the parties discussed the prospects for the further development of Turkmen-Korean cooperation. It was noted that the high-level negotiations held with President Lee Jae-myung would give new impetus to inter-state cooperation. The President of Turkmenistan congratulated Han Seong-sook on her appointment as Prime Minister of the Republic of Korea and wished her every success in his work. The Head of State emphasised the priority of developing a constructive partnership and mutually beneficial cooperation between Turkmenistan and countries around the world. In this context, he noted the importance of expanding relations with the Republic of Korea. Serdar Berdimuhamedov expressed his confidence that the outcome of the state visit would contribute to the further strengthening of the bilateral partnership. The Head of State also highlighted the significance of the Republic of Korea as an economic, technological and innovation partner for Turkmenistan. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov invited the Prime Minister of the Republic of Korea to visit Turkmenistan at a time convenient to her. Ms Han Seong-sook expressed her gratitude for the invitation. At the conclusion of the meeting, the parties expressed their confidence in the further development of Turkmen-Korean cooperation and wished each other success in their work, as well as peace and prosperity for the peoples of both countries.
The Head of Turkmenistan outlined the prospects for Turkmen-Korean cooperation
16.09.2026During his state visit to the Republic of Korea, the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, addressed the High-Level Turkmen-Korean Business Forum, which took place on 15 September. This was reported by the TDH news agency. In his speech, the Head of State highlighted the long-standing constructive relations between Turkmenistan and the Republic of Korea and outlined promising areas for trade, economic and investment cooperation. According to the President, 17 investment projects involving Korean companies, with a total value of over 12 billion US dollars, have been registered in Turkmenistan. Negotiations on new projects are also currently underway. Among the completed projects, Serdar Berdimuhamedov highlighted the construction, in partnership with ‘LX International Corp’ and ‘Hyundai Engineering Co., Ltd.’, of a natural gas desulphurisation plant at the ‘Galkynyş’ field and a polymer plant in Kiyanly. ‘SK Networks’ participated in the installation of a road safety system in Ashgabat and the provision of consultancy services. Investment projects are currently being implemented in the country with the participation of ‘Daewoo Engineering & Construction Co., Ltd.’, ‘Koryo Shipbuilding Industry Technology Co., Ltd.’, ‘Korea Meditech Co., Ltd.’ and other Korean companies. The President of Turkmenistan has stated the country’s interest in attracting Korean technology, investment and managerial expertise to the oil and gas chemical, chemical, energy, transport and other sectors. Transport and logistics infrastructure, the chemical industry, medicine and healthcare were identified as promising areas. Turkmenistan is prepared to consider the participation of South Korean companies in infrastructure projects, as well as to expand cooperation in the production of mineral fertilisers, petrochemical and other industrial products. Korean companies are also involved in the creation of a modern medical cluster in the city of Arkadag. In this sector, Turkmenistan is considering further cooperation on the introduction of medical technologies and the training of specialists. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov expressed his readiness to create the necessary conditions and provide support to the Korean business community in the implementation of joint projects.
A High-Level Turkmen-Korean Business Forum took place
16.09.2026On September 15, as part of a state visit to the Republic of Korea, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov took part in the High-Level Turkmen-Korean Business Forum. This was reported by AsmanNews. During the forum, participants discussed promising areas for trade, economic and investment cooperation, as well as opportunities for implementing joint projects. Before the event began, the Head of State toured an exhibition of products from Turkmen entrepreneurs. The exhibition featured goods from the light industry and the textile sector, as well as construction and industrial products, and items produced by the company ‘Arkadag Medisina Klasteri Menejment’. Speaking at the forum, Serdar Berdimuhamedov highlighted the experience gained through cooperation with South Korean companies. In particular, he singled out projects involving ‘LX International Corp’, ‘Hyundai Engineering Co., Ltd.’ and ‘SK Networks’. According to the Head of State, 17 investment projects involving Korean companies, with a total value of over 12 billion US dollars, are registered in Turkmenistan. Furthermore, negotiations are underway regarding new projects. The President of Turkmenistan emphasised Turkmenistan’s interest in attracting Korean technology, investment and management expertise to the oil and gas, chemical, energy, transport and other sectors. Particular attention was paid to the development of transport and logistics infrastructure, the chemical industry, medicine and healthcare. Korean companies are involved in the creation of a modern medical cluster in the city of Arkadag. The Prime Minister of the Republic of Korea, Han Seong-sook, identified the construction of energy and infrastructure facilities, shipbuilding, the transport and logistics sector, and the training of specialists as the main areas of economic partnership. She noted the need to expand cooperation between universities and to exchange technical knowledge and practical experience. The importance of the activities of the King Sejong Institute in Ashgabat was also emphasised. Yoon Jin-sik, Chairman of the Korea International Trade Association (KITA), noted that cooperation between the two countries covers the energy sector, industry, construction, transport, infrastructure, shipbuilding, healthcare, digital technologies and the environment. He also recalled that in 2019, the Korea International Trade Association, in conjunction with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan, established the ‘Korea–Turkmenistan’ Business Council. Following the speeches, a ceremony was held to sign bilateral documents. Following the participation of the President of Turkmenistan, the meeting continued. The participants discussed prospects for cooperation in gas chemistry, energy, transport, logistics, shipbuilding, industry, construction, infrastructure, the environment and the introduction of ‘green’ technologies, as well as in the fields of education, science, healthcare and culture.
The President of Turkmenistan’s visit to Korea helps to strengthen the partnership
16.09.2026As part of the state visit by the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, to the Republic of Korea, high-level negotiations were held on 15 September with the President of the Republic of Korea, Lee Jae-myung. The parties discussed the development of cooperation in the political and diplomatic, trade and economic, transport, humanitarian, scientific and educational, and other areas, according to the news agency TDH. On 14 September, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov arrived in the Republic of Korea on a state visit. During the visit, the Head of State visited the National Memorial Complex of the Republic of Korea, where he laid a wreath at the monument to Korea’s national heroes and signed the Guest Book. An official welcoming ceremony for the President of Turkmenistan took place at the Cheong Wa Dae Palace. Following this, the Heads of State held a one-on-one meeting, after which negotiations continued in an expanded format with the participation of delegations from both countries. President Lee Jae-myung noted the dynamic development of Turkmen-Korean relations and expressed interest in further expanding cooperation. He also thanked Turkmenistan for its support and for providing the opportunity for citizens of the Republic of Korea to transit through the country’s territory during a period of political turmoil in the region. The President of Turkmenistan emphasised the significance of the state visit for further strengthening inter-state dialogue. The Head of State noted the important role of the Republic of Korea as a partner of Turkmenistan in the Asia-Pacific region. Particular attention was paid during the negotiations to trade and economic cooperation. The parties discussed prospects for cooperation in investment, energy, industry, the chemical sector, rail transport, artificial intelligence, science and technology, water resource management and the environment. Serdar Berdimuhamedov highlighted the involvement of South Korean companies in major projects in Turkmenistan, including projects in the transport sector, shipbuilding and the creation of a medical cluster in the city of Arkadag. The parties also discussed the development of transport, transit and logistics infrastructure along the East–West and North–South routes, as well as the participation of South Korean companies in these projects. Particular attention was paid to cooperation in the fields of culture, science and education. In particular, they highlighted cultural exchanges, the organisation of Culture Days, the development of links between higher education institutions, the exchange of students, lecturers and academics, as well as joint educational programmes. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov invited President Lee Jae-myung to visit Turkmenistan next year. During the visit, a ceremony was held to exchange bilateral documents. These included agreements and memoranda of understanding on cooperation in the fields of investment, customs, the chemical industry, water resource management, youth policy, intellectual property, law and justice, combating transnational organised crime, police cooperation, infrastructure, rail transport, the environment and combating climate change. A separate package of documents was signed between government agencies, universities and companies from both countries. The documents provide for cooperation in oil refining, road transport, telecommunications, water management, shipbuilding, civil aviation, education, science, academic exchanges, culture and the information sector. As part of the visit, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov visited Sungkyunkwan University. A ceremony was held at the university to confer upon the Head of State of Turkmenistan the title of ‘Honorary Doctor of Political Science’. The President of Turkmenistan thanked the leadership of Sungkyunkwan University for conferring the title and highlighted the importance of educational cooperation between the two countries. According to the Head of State, particular attention is being paid to the development of joint programmes in the fields of artificial intelligence, engineering, energy, digital technologies and industrial management. Bilateral meetings were also held during the visit between members of the government delegations of Turkmenistan and the Republic of Korea. The parties discussed the further development of cooperation in the political and diplomatic, trade and economic, and cultural and humanitarian spheres. Next year marks the 35th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Turkmenistan and the Republic of Korea. The parties expressed their interest in the further development of bilateral cooperation. The State visit of the President of Turkmenistan to the Republic of Korea is continuing.
A PETRONAS professor is teaching at an oil and gas university in Turkmenistan
16.09.2026From September 14 to 17, students and young teachers at the Yagshygeldi Kakayev International University of Oil and Gas are taking part in online classes on the analysis and design of offshore structures. The classes are being led by a professor from PETRONAS University of Technology (Malaysia), according to the news website Turkmenportal. As part of the course, participants are introduced to modern technologies and methods used in the industry, according to the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan. Upon completion of the course, participants will be awarded certificates from the PETRONAS University of Technology. The classes have been organised under the Memorandum of Cooperation between Turkmen and Malaysian higher education institutions. For the 2026–2027 academic year, lectures by professors from the University of Technology are also planned, both online and in person when they visit Turkmenistan. Topics will cover the oil and gas industry, artificial intelligence, chemistry and processing.
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