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Young Turkmen chess player wins international tournament in Turkey
02.09.2025Young Turkmen chess player Osman Hamrakuliyev won the ‘Malatya Golden Apricot’ International Open Tournament, which took place in the Turkish city of Malatya. This was reported by the IIC. The competition brought together 486 participants from eight countries: Turkmenistan, Egypt, Iran, Jordan, Morocco, Syria and Turkey. The tournament was held according to international standards: 9 rounds using the Swiss system, with a time control of 90 minutes per game plus 30 seconds per move. O. Hamrakuliyev scored 7.5 points out of 9 and demonstrated stable and confident play throughout the tournament, confidently ahead of his competitors. The Turkmen chess player is a student of international grandmaster Maksat Atabayev. From early childhood, O. Hamrakuliyev has shown a deep interest in chess and has been actively participating in competitions since the age of four. He is currently in the 7th grade at the Turkmen-Russian School named after A.S. Pushkin, where he also excels in his studies. The victory in Malatya was another success for Osman: earlier, from 18 to 24 August 2025, he took second place in the under-12 age category among boys at the International Tournament in Cappadocia.
The President of Turkmenistan expressed his readiness to increase gas supplies to SCO countries
02.09.2025In his speech at the SCO summit in the ‘SCO+’ format, which took place on 1 September in Tianjin, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov outlined in detail the key areas of cooperation between Turkmenistan and the countries of the organisation. This was reported by the Orient news agency. The President of Turkmenistan emphasised the importance of the SCO for continental and global processes, noting: ‘Turkmenistan has great respect for the SCO and closely and kindly monitors its activities. We note the constructive role of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization in continental and global processes, and its great contribution to the establishment of a fair and balanced system of the modern world order.’ Particular attention was paid in the speech to the Global Governance Initiative recently proposed by the President of the People's Republic of China, Xi Jinping. Serdar Berdimuhamedov stressed that this initiative is fully in line with Turkmenistan's conceptual vision of improving international relations: ‘This idea aligns with Turkmenistan’s conceptual vision of the process of further improving the architecture of international relations and their collective management based on the principles of equality, justice and mutual respect.’ The President of Turkmenistan highlighted the organisation's constructive position on Turkmenistan's foreign policy, including the country's neutrality and international initiatives: ‘It would be appropriate to note that the states that are now members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization have supported and co-sponsored UN General Assembly resolutions on Turkmenistan’s neutrality, as well as a number of other UN decisions proposed by our country.’ Serdar Berdimuhamedov emphasised that the economy remains the main vector of Turkmenistan's relations with the SCO. Among the priority areas, he highlighted transport and logistics, communications, energy, trade and industrial cooperation: ‘The presence of an extensive resource base, the benefits of a geographical location, the dynamic development of industry and infrastructure, and the accumulated experience of cooperation – all this objectively contributes to economic rapprochement and joint development, the realization of combined potential.’ The President of Turkmenistan paid special attention to transport corridors. The Head of State emphasised the potential of Turkmenistan and the SCO countries as key links in the ‘East-West’ and ‘North-South’ logistics corridors: ‘The purposeful pooling of efforts and potentials, the mobilization of political, diplomatic and economic resources will mean a qualitatively new stage not only in the development of our cooperation.’ According to the Head of State, this creates conditions for the formation of a holistic geo-economic space. The Head of Turkmenistan drew attention to the opportunities offered by the Trans-Caspian and Caspian routes: ‘I think our common task is to put them into practice. We see the Caspian corridors – vertically and horizontally – as a real chance to dramatically increase the efficiency and return on our economic and production capabilities, fully enter global markets.’ Serdar Berdimuhamedov also emphasised the importance of a favourable political and legal climate for transport on the Caspian Sea, which opens up new opportunities for trade and economic activity for the SCO countries. Particular attention was paid to the port of Turkmenbashi and its potential: ‘Many SCO member states possess substantial industrial capacities and rich expertise in this field. Turkmenistan, too, is actively developing its national shipbuilding industry, and we are convinced that partnership in this area could yield significant mutual benefits.’ The President of Turkmenistan noted the opportunities for developing railway and road infrastructure, as well as the implementation of joint projects, including the construction of railways to Afghanistan, and confirmed his readiness to submit proposals for long-term cooperation. In the field of communications, Turkmenistan, together with its partners, is laying fibre-optic communication lines through Afghanistan to Pakistan and is offering the SCO to participate in the expansion of these projects. In the energy sector, the Head of State emphasised Turkmenistan's readiness to increase supplies of natural gas and electricity: ‘At the same time, we are placing growing emphasis on the electric power industry. We remain open to discussing the practical aspects of electricity supply, including expanding both its directions and volumes.’ The President of Turkmenistan also noted the importance of industrial cooperation: ‘The positive dynamics of economic growth across our countries, the construction of new industrial facilities, and the expansion of the range of goods and services all underscore the need for deeper economic partnership.’ In the humanitarian sphere, the Head of State emphasised the importance of historical experience, shared values, loyalty to traditions, good neighbourliness and respect, noting that strengthening cultural, scientific, educational and social ties will always be of particular importance. In conclusion, Serdar Berdimuhamedov reaffirmed Turkmenistan's commitment to practical steps to realise joint opportunities in the interests of common goals, strengthening friendship, good neighbourliness and trust, and thanked the President of the PRC for the invitation to the summit.
Charitable foundations of Turkmenistan and China approved a joint memorandum
02.09.2025During the visit of the Turkmen delegation to China, Oguljahan Atabayeva, Vice-President for Medical Activities of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship, held a meeting with Li Bin, Head of the Soong Ching Ling Foundation of the People's Republic of China. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. The parties noted the long-standing friendly ties between the two nations and expressed their willingness to develop humanitarian cooperation. Oguljahan Atabayeva emphasised the Turkmen side's interest in exchanging experience and social projects. Following the meeting, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the two foundations.
The Embassy of Turkmenistan took part in a round table discussion in Islamabad
02.09.2025On 29 August, the Embassy of Turkmenistan in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan took part in a round table organised by the COPAIR think tank on the topic ‘Central Asia & Pakistan connectivity: efforts & prospects’. This was reported by the press service of the Turkmen diplomatic mission. Participants discussed key infrastructure projects, including TAPI, TAP, CASA-1000, the Uzbekistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan railway line and others. The focus was on issues related to the development of trade, transit, transport routes and energy cooperation. The role of these initiatives in strengthening regional integration, energy and transport security, supply diversification and stimulating sustainable growth was noted. Following the meeting, the parties expressed their readiness to continue cooperation to deepen bilateral and multilateral ties.
Serdar Berdimuhamedov sent his condolences to the people of Afghanistan
02.09.2025President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov expressed his condolences to the people of Afghanistan in connection with the earthquake that occurred in the provinces of Kunar and Nangarhar. This was reported by the IIC. On behalf of the Turkmen people and on his own behalf, the Head of State conveyed his condolences to the families and loved ones of those who died, and wished a speedy recovery to those affected by this tragedy.
The first bell rang in Turkmenistan schools
02.09.2025On 1 September, the new 2025–2026 academic year began in Turkmenistan. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. The first bell rang in all schools across the country, and traditional ceremonies included laying flowers at the Independence Monument and monuments to Berdimuhamed Annayev, erected at the Berdimuhamed Annayev Pedagogical Secondary Vocational School in Arkadag and at Secondary School No. 27 in the village of Yzgant, Goktepe etrap, Ahal velayat. On Knowledge and Student Youth Day, all secondary and higher education institutions held solemn assemblies where a congratulatory message from the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, was read out, wishing the younger generation success in their studies. The first lesson was dedicated to the International Year of Peace and Trust, as well as the 30th anniversary of the country's permanent neutrality. New schools and kindergartens with modern equipment are being actively built in the country. On Knowledge Day, four schools with 2,800 places and four kindergartens with 1,120 places opened in Ashgabat and Lebap velayat. The new educational institutions are equipped with multimedia and interactive classrooms, sports halls, libraries and playrooms for preschoolers, creating conditions for the comprehensive development of children. The opening ceremonies were accompanied by festive events with the participation of artists and local residents, who expressed their gratitude to the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov and the President of Turkmenistan for their care for the younger generation and contribution to the development of the education system.
New facilities of the State Energy Institute opened in Turkmenistan
02.09.2025On 1 September, the grand opening of new facilities at the State Energy Institute of Turkmenistan took place: an additional academic building, a dormitory, a sports complex, and the ‘Täze kuwwat’ monument. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. The new facilities, timed to coincide with Knowledge and Student Youth Day, strengthen the scientific and educational base of the country's energy sector. The ceremony was attended by the governor of Mary velayat, the executive secretary of the National Commission of Turkmenistan for UNESCO, deputies of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan, members of the velayat, city and etrap Halk Maslahaty, representatives of public organisations, the media, as well as foreign structures, the teaching staff and students of the institute, and honourable elders. The event was accompanied by theatrical performances and musical performances by students. An address by the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, was read out, emphasising the importance of knowledge for the development of the country and the formation of a highly educated, patriotic young generation. The speakers noted that the reforms carried out in the field of education have given new impetus to the development of the national education system. The institute's new facilities create modern conditions for training specialists in the field of energy, including renewable energy sources. The educational building is equipped with 18 general lecture halls, 28 practical classrooms, 6 computer and language labs, 57 laboratories, a robotics and AI centre, conference rooms, a library and a research and production centre. The laboratories are equipped with modern instruments from Germany, Spain, Italy and China. The 800-bed dormitory provides comfortable living conditions for students, and the sports complex includes a gym and a fitness room with modern equipment. Solar and wind power stations and rainwater collection systems have been installed on the premises, demonstrating the country's commitment to environmentally friendly energy. During the opening ceremony, international certificates were awarded for the introduction of innovative technologies, energy-efficient construction and sustainable development. Memoranda of Cooperation were also signed with Clausthal University of Technology in Germany and Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg for the training of highly qualified specialists. The ceremony concluded with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, the release of doves and balloons, and musical performances highlighting the significance of the event for the country and its student youth.
Ilham Aliyev sent a letter to Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov
02.09.2025President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev sent a letter of greeting to the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. In his letter, the President of Azerbaijan expressed warm words of welcome, recalled Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov's visit to Azerbaijan in July and noted the friendly atmosphere of their meeting. Ilham Aliyev thanked him for the invitation to participate in the Forum of the International Year of Peace and Trust, which will be held in Ashgabat on 12 December, emphasising the importance of Turkmenistan's initiative to declare 2025 the International Year of Peace and Trust by the UN General Assembly. The President of Azerbaijan noted the symbolism of holding the Forum in the year of the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's neutrality and emphasised Azerbaijan's respectful attitude towards this status. Ilham Aliyev expressed confidence that the Forum would contribute to strengthening global peace and stability, and wished success in its work, as well as health and prosperity to the Hero Arkadag and the people of Turkmenistan.
The President of Turkmenistan sent congratulations to the President of Vietnam
02.09.2025President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov sent congratulations to President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam Luong Kyong on the occasion of the national holiday — the 80th anniversary of Vietnam Independence Day. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. In his message, Serdar Berdimuhamedov wished the President of Vietnam good health, happiness and prosperity, and the people of the country peace, development and prosperity.
The National Leader of the Turkmen people emphasised the role of education in the country's future
02.09.2025The National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov delivered a speech at the opening ceremony of the International University of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. Hero Arkadag noted that 2025 coincides with the 34th anniversary of independence and the 30th anniversary of the country's neutrality, emphasising the importance of new educational projects for the future of Turkmenistan. The National Leader of the Turkmen people stressed that under the leadership of President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov, large-scale work is being carried out in the country to develop science and education, strengthen the material and technical base of educational institutions, introduce modern technologies and expand international cooperation. In this context, the new higher education institution should play an important role in training specialists for the private sector and strengthening international ties. Hero Arkadag also recalled the contribution of the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs to the socio-economic development of the country. The Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty emphasised that the opening of the Union's own university is an important step towards supporting innovative business and training qualified personnel for the economy. In conclusion, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov congratulated the teachers and students on the holiday and expressed his confidence that the young people studying at the new university will make a worthy contribution to the prosperity of independent Turkmenistan.
Hero Arkadag took part in the opening of a new university in Ashgabat
02.09.2025On 1 September, Ashgabat hosted the grand opening of the International University of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs, timed to coincide with Knowledge and Student Youth Day. The ceremony was attended by the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, according to the state news agency TDH. The new university is the first non-state higher education institution in Turkmenistan. The authorities call its creation an important step in the modernisation of the national education system and in supporting the private sector. The emergence of such a university opens up new opportunities for training specialists focused on the market economy, the introduction of innovations and work in accordance with international standards. The university's programmes cover areas such as entrepreneurship and management, economics and finance, digital technologies, agribusiness, construction and engineering. Teaching will be conducted in Turkmen and English, which, according to the organisers, will allow students to integrate into the global educational space and be competitive in the global labour market. The modern campus includes academic buildings, laboratories, a library with electronic resources, a sports centre, dormitories and leisure facilities for young people. The university intends to attract foreign teachers and actively develop cooperation with foreign universities and companies, which will give students the opportunity to undertake internships and participate in joint projects. The opening of the university will be an important step towards shaping a new generation of managers, entrepreneurs and specialists. It is expected to introduce best practices, strengthen the competitiveness of the national economy and enhance the country's role in the international education and business sectors.
The President of Turkmenistan emphasised the role of the SCO in economic development
02.09.2025During his speech at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov thanked President of the People's Republic of China Xi Jinping for the invitation. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. Serdar Berdimuhamedov of Turkmenistan also emphasised that Turkmenistan's participation in SCO summits has become a ‘long-standing tradition’ reflecting mutual interest in developing the partnership. The President of Turkmenistan noted the constructive role of the organisation in strengthening international stability and supported the new initiative of the President of the PRC, the ‘Global Governance Initiative’. Particular attention was paid to issues of economic cooperation in the speech. The President of Turkmenistan highlighted transport, energy, trade and industrial cooperation as key areas of interaction between Turkmenistan and the SCO member states. Serdar Berdimuhamedov proposed more active development of the ‘East-West’ and ‘North-South’ transport corridors, emphasising the importance of trans-Caspian routes and the capabilities of the Turkmenbashi International Sea Port. In the energy sector, Turkmenistan is ready to increase natural gas and electricity supplies to SCO countries, as well as participate in joint projects to develop the electric power industry. In addition, Serdar Berdimuhamedov expressed Ashgabat's interest in expanding cooperation in the field of communications, including the laying of fibre-optic lines through Afghanistan to Pakistan. The Head of State also emphasised the importance of humanitarian cooperation based on “historical experience, good neighbourliness and mutual respect”. In conclusion, Serdar Berdimuhamedov invited delegations from SCO member countries to visit Ashgabat for the celebrations marking the 30th anniversary of the international recognition of Turkmenistan's neutrality, which will be celebrated on 12 December this year.
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