News
Women in Turkmenistan will receive cash gifts on International Women's Day
21.02.2026The President of Turkmenistan has signed a Decree on the presentation of monetary gifts to women and girls in the country on the occasion of International Women's Day. This was reported by the news resource AsmanNews. According to the document, between 2 and 6 March 2026, payments will be made on behalf of the Head of State in a solemn ceremony. Cash gifts will be given to women working in enterprises, institutions and organisations regardless of their form of ownership, as well as those receiving pensions and state benefits. Recipients also include postgraduate students, doctoral students and clinical residents on leave from work, students of the Academy of Public Service under the President of Turkmenistan with a term of study of at least two years, female students, schoolgirls and pupils of preschool institutions.
Turkmenistan and India discussed cooperation in horse breeding
21.02.2026On 19 February, Shalar Geldinazarov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to India, met with Sarpartap Singh, Vice President of the Indigenous Horse Society of India. This was reported by the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The parties discussed prospects for cooperation in horse breeding. The Ambassador spoke about state programmes for breeding Ahal-Teke horses and noted that 2026 is being held under the motto ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’. Among the planned events is the annual National Turkmen Horse Festival in April. Sarpartap Singh emphasised the potential for strengthening bilateral ties in the industry.
Turkmenistan presented its energy potential at international forums in London
21.02.2026Representatives of the Turkmen Energy Forum (TEF) took part in International Energy Week and the ‘London Energy Forum’ in London. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. The forums brought together global energy companies, financial institutions and technology organisations to discuss market sustainability, investment priorities and the role of energy resources in the context of the global energy transition. Participants presented Turkmenistan's investment opportunities, discussed formats for cooperation with international companies and presented upcoming conferences and exhibitions in Ashgabat. At the events, experts emphasised that the energy transition will go hand in hand with ensuring energy security, and that natural gas remains a key transition fuel due to its low carbon intensity and ability to maintain the stability of energy systems as the share of renewable energy grows. Countries with large gas reserves, including Turkmenistan, are seen as important partners in decarbonisation and energy security, opening up opportunities for long-term cooperation in both traditional supplies and low-carbon projects. Investors are attracted to projects with a transparent implementation structure, reliable partners and developed infrastructure. Projects with technological partnerships, EPC models, accessible sources of financing and effective product marketing mechanisms are of particular interest.
The ‘TürkmenÄlem 52°E’ satellite expands the scope of international communications
21.02.2026The coverage area of Turkmenistan's first national satellite, ‘TürkmenÄlem 52°E’, encompasses Europe, the Middle East, North Africa, Central Asia, the CIS countries and certain regions of Asia with a population of over 1.2 billion people. This was reported by the Orient news agency. Its launch in 2015 was a key step in the development of the country's telecommunications infrastructure and the expansion of international ties. Turkmenistan actively participates in the work of relevant international organisations in the field of communications. The implementation of these projects contributes to the development of transit routes between Europe and Asia, the growth of network capacity and the strengthening of Turkmenistan's status as an important regional communications hub.
Turkmenistan has increased the volume of transit cargo transportation
21.02.2026Turkmenistan has seen steady growth in transit freight traffic. According to the news website Turkmenportal, last year transit flows passed through routes covering 108 countries, with a total volume exceeding 7 million tonnes. The volume in 2025 increased by 28% compared to 2024. Road transport leads the overall structure of foreign trade and transit transport, accounting for 43%. The share of rail transport was 27%, sea transport 28%, and air transport 2%. The State Customs Service is constantly implementing measures to optimise customs procedures, introduce digital solutions and modernise the infrastructure of checkpoints, which ensures efficient and transparent customs clearance in accordance with international standards.
Turkmenistan and FAO emphasised the priorities of sustainable agricultural development
21.02.2026The Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Turkmenistan to the Italian Republic, Permanent Representative of Turkmenistan to the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) Toyly Komekov met with FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The meeting took place on 18 February at the organisation's headquarters in Rome. The Ambassador conveyed greetings from the Government of Turkmenistan and confirmed his interest in developing cooperation with the FAO and introducing international practices in the field of sustainable agriculture and food security. The parties discussed the results of the FAO Head's visit to Ashgabat in January this year, including the signing of an agreement on the opening of a full-fledged FAO office in Turkmenistan, as well as the importance of the international conference on food security and climate change. Qu Dongyu highly appreciated the results of the visit and the meeting with the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov. In addition, the Director-General of the FAO noted Turkmenistan's potential, its sustainable development and active role in the environmental and food agenda. During the meeting, the FAO confirmed its readiness to support the country's initiatives and the implementation of the Country Framework Programme for 2026-2030, which focuses on climate adaptation, water resources and innovation.
Turkmenistan took part in the session of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly in Vienna
20.02.2026On 19 February, members of the Turkmenistan Mejlis took part in the 25th winter session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe, held in Vienna. This was reported by the press service of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan. During the session, a wide range of issues were discussed, including political and security issues, the development of democracy, the protection of human rights and humanitarian issues, as well as topics related to the economy, science, technology and the environment. Special attention was paid to strengthening inter-parliamentary cooperation and preparatory activities for the 33rd annual session of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, scheduled for July 2026. The meeting participants exchanged views on the importance of the OSCE in the context of contemporary global challenges, ways to strengthen trust and cooperation between states, ensure economic sustainability and equality, protect human dignity, rights and freedoms, provide humanitarian assistance, combat climate change, and the role of dialogue in strengthening peace and stability.
Turkmenistan and the OSCE discussed prospects for cooperation in the field of migration
20.02.2026On 19 February, the State Migration Service of Turkmenistan held a working meeting with Andrei Iovu, an expert from the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The parties discussed projects and initiatives implemented by Turkmenistan in cooperation with the OSCE, as well as prospects for expanding bilateral cooperation. During the talks, the interlocutors exchanged views on the potential for cooperation in the field of migration, identifying key and priority areas for further joint work. Following the meeting, both sides expressed their mutual conviction in continuing constructive and sustainable cooperation, the source notes.
Turkmen scientists explore opportunities offered by the EU's ‘Horizon Europe’ programme
20.02.2026The International University for the Humanities and Development in Ashgabat hosted an information and communication session dedicated to ‘Horizon Europe’ – the European Union’s largest research programme. The event brought together leading scientists, young researchers and relevant specialists to discuss ways of integrating Turkmen science into the global innovation space, reports IIC. With the participation of international experts and representatives of the EU diplomatic corps, the concept of the programme as a key instrument for financing scientific projects was presented. Particular attention was paid to the work plans for 2026-2027, which include priority areas: digital transformation, climate change and technological modernisation. Participants were given a detailed explanation of the application process, grant criteria and opportunities for joining international research consortia. The practical part of the session focused on developing project management skills and finding foreign partners. Experts emphasised that scientists from Central Asia have every right to participate in ‘Horizon Europe’ competitions, which opens up prospects for academic mobility and the introduction of best practices into the national economy. This is in line with Turkmenistan's strategic objectives of digitalisation and the introduction of high-tech solutions in all areas of life. The forum continues the state policy of modernising the scientific and educational sphere and strengthening multilateral international partnerships. Such initiatives contribute to the growth of the country's intellectual potential, give Turkmen researchers the opportunity to actively participate in solving global problems and enhance Turkmenistan's scientific authority on the world stage.
Ashgabat and Brussels strengthen technological and humanitarian dialogue
20.02.2026Turkmenistan's Ambassador to Belgium, Sapar Palvanov, held a series of meetings in Brussels with senior representatives of the European Commission on the prospects for long-term partnership. This was reported by IIC. During the negotiations with Director-General for Research and Innovation Marc Lemaitre, it was noted that the European Union is one of Turkmenistan's three key strategic partners for 2025-2026. The parties identified the introduction of high technologies, the development of artificial intelligence and the coordination of efforts on the climate agenda as priority areas for cooperation. The dialogue focused in particular on environmental issues in Central Asia. The meeting participants discussed the need for a scientifically based analysis of changes in the water balance and the shallowing of the Caspian Sea using modern monitoring systems. In this regard, the Turkmen side presented an initiative to create a Regional Centre for Innovation and Technology, which is intended to become a key platform for climate research in the region. Representatives of the European Commission expressed interest in developing joint technological solutions in the interests of sustainable development. The humanitarian aspect of cooperation was discussed at a meeting with Normunds Popens, Deputy Director-General for Education, Youth, Sport and Culture. The parties outlined practical steps to deepen cooperation in the field of education and implement joint youth programmes. The expansion of cultural exchange and sports cooperation is seen as an important element in further rapprochement between Turkmenistan and the European Union, complementing technological and economic partnership.
The private sector in Turkmenistan has become a driver of structural transformation
20.02.2026In 2025, which was designated the International Year of Peace and Trust, Turkmenistan's trade and business sector demonstrated steady growth and deepening structural reforms. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. As noted at an expanded meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers on 13 February, the implementation of the economic strategy ensured a 6.3 percent increase in gross domestic product at the end of the year. According to reports, growth in industry was 1.8 percent, in construction 7.9 percent, in transport and communications 9.8 percent, in trade 9.6 percent, in agriculture 7 percent, and in services 7.5 percent. Compared to 2024, the total volume of production for January–December increased by 10.2 percent. Positive dynamics were recorded in all key sectors. Retail trade turnover grew by 13.2 percent. The state budget was executed at 101.5 percent in terms of revenue and 99.7 percent in terms of expenditure. Qualitative changes in the structure of the trade complex and the private sector were the result of the consistent implementation of industrialisation and digitalisation programmes. Modern trade infrastructure expanded actively throughout the year: new shopping and entertainment centres and specialised shops owned by private entrepreneurs opened in the capital and regions. Considerable attention was paid to digital solutions. The e-commerce segment expanded significantly, and the number of online platforms and mobile delivery services increased, which improved the accessibility of retail services and reduced the distance between producers and consumers. Strengthening food security remained a priority. According to the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs, the growth rate of agricultural and food production reached 108.1 percent, and industrial goods — 106.7 percent. Due to state support and preferential lending, private agro-industrial complexes are expanding their greenhouse areas. Entrepreneurs not only supply the domestic market with basic food products, but also form stable export channels for tomatoes and other agricultural products to neighbouring countries and CIS states. The development of new irrigated land, the planting of orchards and the expansion of greenhouse farms are continuing. Among the major projects is the 110-hectare greenhouse complex of ‘Miwe’ OJSC, which specialises in growing bananas, as well as apples, pears, plums and almonds. In 2024, the ‘Gündogar akymy’ economic association sowed 350 hectares of soybeans for the first time in the country and obtained a high yield, which expanded the raw material base of the food industry. The livestock sector is actively introducing advanced foreign experience. Significant results have been achieved by the ‘Ajaýyp ussat halal önümler’ and ‘Sahabatly’ economic societies, which are developing beef and dairy cattle breeding, as well as poultry farming and alternative areas of animal husbandry. On the international stage, Turkmenistan is strengthening its position as a producer of high-quality, competitive products. An important promotional tool has been the national brand ‘Made in Turkmenistan’, which is gradually transforming from a mark of origin into an indicator of the quality of domestic goods. The expansion of import substitution was confirmed by the participation of members of the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs in the XXIV International Universal Exhibition ‘White City Ashgabat’, where projects were presented by the companies ‘Galkynyş plastik’, ‘Erjel-Begenç’, the economic societies ‘Döwlet gurluşyk’, ‘Döwletli Döwran’ and others. The exhibitions showed the formation of full-fledged production chains — from the processing of raw materials to the production of finished high-tech products. The development of entrepreneurship in 2025 was distinctly social in nature. The private sector actively participated in the construction of residential areas, kindergartens and medical centres, demonstrating the effectiveness of public-private partnerships. At the same time, the technological transformation of business is intensifying. The state's policy of digitalisation has become a powerful driver of modernisation in the private sector and the introduction of innovative management models. Against this backdrop, domestic entrepreneurs are increasingly becoming developers of their own technological solutions. A telling example is the activities of the ‘Aýdyň gijeler’ joint-stock company, which has mastered the production of complex electronics, from personal computers and laptops to smartphones, routers and smart TVs. The textile industry has also seen positive dynamics. According to the relevant ministry, production growth was 106.3 percent, with cotton yarn output up 111.7 percent, fabrics up 118.8 percent and leather products up 111.4 percent. The plan of the ‘Türkmenhaly’ State Association was fulfilled by 102.2 percent. Domestic textile brands ‘Gala’, ‘Ýeňiş’, ‘Goza’, ‘Wada’, ‘Nusaý’, ‘Bedew’, ‘Bürgüt’, ‘Akpamyk’, ‘Merw’, ‘Jeýtun’ and ‘Mäne’ are strengthening their positions in domestic and foreign markets due to the introduction of modern standards and the environmental quality of raw materials. During the reporting period, the State Commodity and Raw Materials Exchange held 299 trading sessions, resulting in 29,975 contracts being registered. The exchange continues to improve mechanisms for regulating the commodity market and stimulating foreign trade. International forums and exhibitions have become important platforms for promoting investment potential. In March, the ‘Ýyldyz’ Hotel in the capital hosted the forum ‘Investment in the Future of Turkmenistan’, where instruments for unlocking the potential of the private sector were discussed. As a result, a number of framework agreements and memoranda were signed with companies from the Russian Federation, the Kingdom of the Netherlands, the Republic of Kazakhstan and the People's Republic of China. Overall, the synergy of state support and private initiative in the anniversary year of neutrality has formed a solid foundation for further diversification of the economy and strengthening of Turkmenistan's technological sovereignty.
The President of Turkmenistan congratulated the Prime Minister of Japan
20.02.2026The President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov sent a congratulatory message to Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on her re-election to high office, according to the state news agency TDH. In his message, the Head of State noted that he warmly remembers the meeting that took place in Tokyo as part of the first ‘Central Asia – Japan’ Dialogue Summit. He emphasised the readiness of the Turkmen side to effectively use the broad potential of bilateral cooperation based on trusting and constructive dialogue. Taking advantage of the opportunity, the President of Turkmenistan wished the Prime Minister good health, prosperity and new successes in his state activities for the prosperity of the friendly people of Japan.
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