News
Turkmenistan achieved record volume of container cargo transportation
27.01.2026In 2025, 21,320 containers were shipped from Turkmenistan, which is 10,200 more than in the same period in 2024. This was reported by the online publication ‘Business Turkmenistan’, citing the country's Ministry of Rail Transport. Of these, 10,470 containers were in transit, 6,450 were for export and 4,400 were for import. The widespread use of container transport increases freight traffic on key international routes — ‘North-South’, ‘Lazurit’ and ‘East-West’ — creating new logistics opportunities for the region.
The capital of Turkmenistan has commissioned new housing for Ministry of Internal Affairs employees
27.01.2026A new phase of the modern cottage complex named after Malikguly Berdimuhamedov, built for the families of employees of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, has been commissioned in Ashgabat. This was reported by IIC. The housing stock includes 56 five-room apartments designed for large families. All rooms are fully equipped with modern furniture and household appliances, allowing new residents to move in immediately without additional costs or organisational difficulties. Elements of traditional Turkmen culture were presented as part of the ceremony. In the courtyards of the complex, women prepared national dishes — chelpeks and pishmes — and baked bread in tamdyrs. The festive atmosphere was complemented by performances by children's dance groups and musical numbers accompanied by the dutar and tar. During the symbolic ribbon cutting, balloons were released into the sky. On behalf of the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, the new residents were presented with commemorative gifts. The event concluded with a cultural programme at the yurts, featuring an exhibition of folk crafts, including carpets and jewellery. The final chord was the dance ‘Kushtdepdi’ performed by the folk ensemble ‘Miras’.
The Great Silk Road: a historical route and a modern model of development
27.01.2026The Great Silk Road occupied a special place in the development of human civilization, connecting the East and the West not only in terms of trade, but also through the exchange of cultures, science, and spiritual values. For thousands of years, this route served as an important economic and geopolitical factor that shaped the course of world history. The main nodes of the Great Silk Road passed through the territory of present-day Turkmenistan, confirming the country’s historical role as a center of international relations since ancient times. The emergence of the Great Silk Road dates back to the 2nd century BCE and encompassed a multifunctional network of routes stretching from China through Central Asia to the Middle East and Europe. It was not a single road, but an extensive system of interconnected trade and communication routes. Through this network, silk, precious stones, metals, aromatic substances, textiles, as well as scientific and cultural achievements were transported from one region to another. Within the territory of Turkmenistan, ancient cities such as Merv, Nisa, Amul (modern Turkmenabat), and Koneurgench served as major hubs of the Great Silk Road. These cities functioned not only as centers of trade, but also as important centers of science, culture, and craftsmanship. Through them, economic and cultural ties between the East and the West were strengthened. The significance of the Great Silk Road was not limited to trade relations alone. It contributed to the development of dialogue among different civilizations and fostered mutual understanding and cooperation among peoples. The spread of religious teachings, scientific ideas, and architectural styles was also carried out through this route. Thus, the Great Silk Road stands as a historical example of integration and cooperation in world history. The book ‘Turkmenistan — Heart of the Great Silk Road’ by the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, demonstrates how this historical heritage continues to evolve with renewed meaning in the modern era. The work provides an in-depth analysis of Turkmenistan’s historical role along the Great Silk Road, the development of ancient cities, archaeological discoveries, and the country’s strategic position at the crossroads of civilizations. The book emphasizes that the Great Silk Road is not only a legacy of the past, but also a contemporary foundation for economic development and international cooperation. Located at a strategic crossroads of Eurasia, Turkmenistan is consistently strengthening its status as one of the key transit and transport hubs of the region. In modern conditions, the idea of reviving the Great Silk Road finds its practical realization through the implementation of large-scale infrastructure projects aimed at forming sustainable and interconnected transport corridors. The country’s advantageous geographical position contributes to the expansion of trade and economic relations, the acceleration of cargo transportation, and the development of multilateral cooperation among the states of Central Asia, the Caucasus, the Middle East, and Europe. The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, pursuing a balanced and far-sighted foreign policy in the conditions of the 21st century, consistently puts forward international initiatives aimed at developing a modern transit and transport infrastructure that serves the interests of sustainable and harmonious development of countries worldwide. Particular attention is paid to the practical and timely implementation of these initiatives, reflecting Turkmenistan’s strategic approach to strengthening global cooperation in the transport sector. Active participation in the implementation of large-scale regional transport projects in cooperation with international organizations occupies an important place in the ‘Concept of the Foreign Policy Course of Neutral Turkmenistan’ and the ‘Program for the Development of Transport Diplomacy of the President of Turkmenistan.’ A clear confirmation of the effectiveness of this policy is the adoption by the United Nations General Assembly, at the initiative of Turkmenistan, of a number of resolutions devoted to the role of transport and transit corridors, the development of multimodal transport, and the strengthening of interconnectivity among all modes of transport in the interests of sustainable development, including in the post-pandemic period, as well as the establishment of World Sustainable Transport Day. These decisions vividly demonstrate Turkmenistan’s high international standing and the country’s significant achievements in the field of transport diplomacy. International transport and transit corridors involving Turkmenistan occupy a prominent place in this process, including the multimodal route ‘Afghanistan–Turkmenistan–Azerbaijan–Georgia–Turkey,’ the international transport corridor ‘Turkmenistan–Azerbaijan–Georgia–Romania,’ running along the Caspian Sea–Black Sea axis, as well as the multilateral multimodal corridor ‘China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan–Turkmenistan–Azerbaijan–Georgia–Turkey–Europe.’ These routes contribute to the expansion of transport links between regions and to the strengthening of the country’s transit potential. Alongside this, transport and transit corridor projects ‘Uzbekistan–Turkmenistan–Iran–Oman’ and ‘Uzbekistan–Turkmenistan–Iran–Turkey,’ as well as the international railway line ‘Kazakhstan–Turkmenistan–Iran,’ are of major strategic importance, as they provide access to the ports of the Persian Gulf and establish reliable connections between Central Asia and global markets. The consistent implementation of these initiatives, together with their international recognition at the United Nations level, clearly attests to the growing role of Turkmenistan in shaping the modern system of international transportation. From an economic perspective, the growth of international transit potential expands Turkmenistan’s export opportunities, creates new jobs, and promotes economic diversification. Overall, the Great Silk Road is not only part of Turkmenistan’s historical past, but also a key pillar of the country’s modern development strategy. The historical experience of this trade route forms a solid foundation for the creation of a modern transport and logistics system.
Media communications for business discussed in Turkmenistan
26.01.2026Every Sunday, the Centre for Young Entrepreneurs at the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs of Turkmenistan hosts interesting events where participants not only learn the basics of business, but also create a platform for intergenerational exchange of experience, according to the Orient news agency. At the last meeting, they discussed media technologies and the role of communications in modern entrepreneurship. The seminar audience is diverse, ranging from 15-year-old schoolchildren to experienced 70-year-old participants. Many come with their spouses — business in Turkmenistan is often a family affair, and it is important that loved ones understand the complexity of an entrepreneur's work. Participants discussed why it is useful for entrepreneurs to have journalistic skills: it helps them convey the specifics of their product, track trends and find new niches. Three key areas for success were identified: the media field as a tool for analysing and adjusting strategy, personal branding and social networks to build audience trust, and control of the information space and the ability to work with feedback.
Turkmen wrestlers win gold at international tournament in Baku
26.01.2026The ‘Aslanov Wrestling Open Tournament’, an international freestyle wrestling competition bringing together the strongest athletes from different countries, is being held in Baku. This was reported by IIC. Turkmen wrestlers Shamuhammet Rejepov and Annadurdy Annadurdyev won their weight categories, winning gold medals and confirming the high level of the national wrestling school. Their victories at this prestigious international event were an important achievement for the Turkmenistan national team, demonstrating the high quality of training and the growing potential of athletes on the world stage.
The Turkmenistan kickboxing team is holding an international training camp in Shymkent
26.01.2026The national team of the Turkmenistan Kickboxing Federation is holding international training camps in Shymkent (Kazakhstan). This was reported by the IIC. Leading Turkmen and foreign athletes are participating in the training sessions, which allows them to practise fighting in conditions similar to those of international competitions. The main focus is on improving technique and tactics, developing endurance and psychological resilience. The training camp promotes the exchange of experience, the mastery of modern training methods and the strengthening of international sporting ties, creating a solid foundation for successful performances in upcoming tournaments.
Turkmenistan delegation participates in General Assembly of Olympic Council of Asia
26.01.2026A delegation from Turkmenistan is participating in the 46th General Assembly of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), which is being held in Tashkent. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. Delegations from 45 countries are participating in the forum, discussing the prospects for the development of the Olympic movement in Asia and electing a new head of the organisation. Turkmenistan is represented by the Secretary General of the National Olympic Committee of Turkmenistan, Ata Akmammedov, and the Chairman of the State Committee of Turkmenistan for Physical Culture and Sport, Allaberdi Saparov. The key item on the agenda was the election of the President of the Olympic Council of Asia. The only candidate for this position is Sheikh Joaan Bin Hamad Al Thani, President of the Qatar Olympic Committee. The need for elections is due to the fact that the current OCA President, Raja Randhir Singh (India), is unable to complete his term of office due to health reasons. The assembly is also discussing strategic directions for the development of Asian sport, including long-term plans until 2028. Particular emphasis is being placed on the digitalisation of sports institutions and expanding youth participation in the Olympic movement.
Turkmenistan and Qatar discussed cooperation in the field of horse breeding
26.01.2026On 22 January, Turkmenistan's Ambassador to Qatar, M. Seyitmammedov, held a meeting with the Secretary General of the Qatar Horse Breeding Federation, Bader Al Darwish. This was reported by the news resource TerraNews. The parties discussed the development of bilateral cooperation and the exchange of experience between the Aba Annayev International Academy of Horse Breeding and the Qatar Horse Breeding Federation. The Turkmen diplomat said that 2026 has been declared the ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’ in Turkmenistan. International conferences and specialised events are planned throughout the year.
Young athletes from Turkmenistan performed successfully at the ATF tournament
26.01.2026Turkmen tennis players won silver at the ‘ATF Bahrain 14 & Under Category A’ international tournament in Isa Town (Bahrain). The competition was held under the auspices of the Asian Tennis Federation and brought together athletes from 17 countries, according to the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. 12-year-old Sulgun Ishankuliyeva, paired with Jordanian A. Gokashau, took second place in the doubles. In the final, the duo lost to the Russian-Iranian pair S. Himmelreich / Aylin Mohammadian 3:6, 3:6. In the singles, the best result among Turkmen athletes was achieved by Nazli Hudaykuliyeva. She reached the semi-finals, where she lost to the tournament winner Mengxian Li (China) 1:6, 4:6. In the match for third place, Hudaykuliyeva lost to Chiho Shirai (Japan) 5:7, 2:6 and took fourth place. At the start of the tournament, Nazli Hudaykuliyeva was ranked 19th in the Asian junior rankings, and Sulgun Ishankuliyeva was ranked 52nd. After the points are calculated, Hudaykuliyeva is expected to enter the top ten in the region. The tournament is part of the ATF ranking series. Participation in such competitions gives a chance to qualify for the junior tournaments at Wimbledon and the Australian Open in 2027. The tennis players are coached by Yuri Rogussky, head coach of the Turkmenistan women's national team. In 2025, they won a place in the Asian final as part of the national team, defeating the Uzbekistan team at the U12 Central Asian Championship in Fergana.
German doctors receive awards on the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's neutrality
26.01.2026A ceremony was held in Munich to honour German doctors who have been cooperating with the Turkmenistan healthcare system for more than 30 years. The event was held at the Bayerischer Hof hotel, according to IIC. The anniversary medals ‘Türkmenistanyň Bitaraplygynyň 30 ýyllygyna’ (‘30th Anniversary of Turkmenistan's Neutrality’) and commemorative silver badges were presented by the Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Germany, Berdimyrat Rejepov. Among those awarded were cardiac surgeon Johann Engelbert Meissner, as well as Klaus Georg Parhofer, Liesl Doris Häussermann-Mangold and Volkmar Jansson, leading specialists at the clinics of Ludwig Maximilian University in Munich. It was noted that the doctors had been involved in training Turkmen medical personnel and introducing modern technologies in new medical centres in Turkmenistan since the country's first years of independence. The Ambassador thanked the laureates for their contribution to the development of bilateral professional cooperation.
The Turkmenistan national team is preparing for the Ivan Yarygin Memorial Tournament in Krasnoyarsk
26.01.2026From 29 January to 1 February, Krasnoyarsk will host the 37th Ivan Yarygin International Freestyle Wrestling Tournament. Among the participants is the Turkmenistan national team, according to the news website Turkmenportal. Turkmen wrestler Alp Arslan Begenjov said that the team is preparing for the competition: about six athletes from the country will participate in the tournament. Begenjov is currently training in Dagestan with his compatriot Dovlet Myradov. The tournament in memory of two-time Olympic champion Yarygin has been held since 1990 (since 1991 in Krasnoyarsk) and is considered the second most important in Russia after the national championship. The results of the tournament are taken into account when forming the national team for the European Championship. Three-time Olympic champion Buvaisar Saitiev remains the record holder for the number of victories (6 wins), while Zaur Uguev has the best result among active wrestlers (5 wins). In 2026, athletes from more than 20 countries are expected to participate, including Turkmenistan, India, China, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Turkey, Uzbekistan and others. The competitions will be held in all major weight categories, and the opening ceremony will be held on 30 January.
Turkmen group ‘Galkynysh’ receives awards at Monte Carlo festival
26.01.2026From 16 to 25 January, Monte Carlo (Principality of Monaco) hosted the 48th International Circus Festival. The national equestrian games group ‘Galkynysh’ was awarded international certificates from the World Circus Federation and the European Circus Association for its contribution to the development of circus arts, reports AsmanNews. The ceremony was attended by Serdar Pygyev, the Head of the ‘Galkynysh’ Group of the Ahal-Teke Equestrian Complex of the President of Turkmenistan, and Serdar Gurbangulyev, the General Director of the State Circus of Turkmenistan. They represented Turkmenistan as guests of honour. The ‘Galkynysh’ group was created in 2007. It has repeatedly won international competitions, including festivals in Moscow, Latvia, China, Kyrgyzstan and St. Petersburg. The group performs numbers that combine trick riding, acrobatics, and elements of national equestrian traditions. Performances take place at international festivals and cultural events. The certificates received in Monaco are further confirmation of the international recognition of the ‘Galkynysh’ National Equestrian Games Group. The festival has been held since 1974 and is considered one of the leading international venues in the field of circus arts. It takes place annually in Monte Carlo.
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