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Stoichkov highlighted Turkmenistan’s contribution to the development of the FIFA initiative
15.04.2026Hristo Stoichkov, winner of the 1994 Ballon d’Or, visited Turkmenistan to learn about FIFA’s ‘Football for Schools’ programme. This was reported by Turkmenportal. According to him, the initiative continues to grow, expanding children’s access to football. It is also used as a tool for developing education, teamwork and life skills. Stoichkov noted the level of implementation of the project in Turkmenistan and thanked the Football Federation of Turkmenistan for their hospitality. Hristo Stoichkov is one of Bulgaria’s most decorated footballers. Over the years, he played for ‘Barcelona’ and ‘Parma’. His honours include victories in the European Cup and the UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup, as well as four Spanish league titles. FIFA’s ‘Football for Schools’ programme aims to promote football among children and young people and to develop social skills through sport.
Ashgabat hosted an event to mark Turkish Tourism Week
15.04.2026On 14 April, an event marking Turkish Tourism Week was held at the Turkish Cultural Centre in Ashgabat. It was attended by representatives of the diplomatic corps, the tourism industry, cultural circles and the media, as well as Turkey’s Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism, Nadir Alpaslan, according to the Orient news agency. In his speech, he emphasised the role of tourism as a tool for strengthening international ties and noted the importance of cultural dialogue between Turkey and Turkmenistan. According to him, cooperation between the two countries is based on historical and cultural proximity and opens up opportunities for the development of the Great Silk Road routes. He also stated that Turkey is developing a multi-faceted tourism sector — ranging from archaeology and gastronomy to medical and religious tourism — and is interested in expanding investment and transport accessibility. Ahmet Demirok, Turkish Ambassador to Turkmenistan, in turn, highlighted the country’s significance on the global tourism map and described tourism as a ‘bridge between cultures’, emphasising Turkey’s popularity among Turkmenistan’s citizens and the diplomatic mission’s readiness to facilitate travel. As part of the programme, a photo exhibition showcasing Turkey’s natural and cultural attractions was presented, along with a display of historical artefacts. Guests at the event sampled dishes from the national cuisine and traditional sweets.
Young people from Turkmenistan discussed climate and security as part of the ‘Model OSCE’
15.04.2026A two-day ‘OSCE Model’ event was held in Ashgabat, during which students from the country’s leading universities discussed global environmental challenges and their impact on regional security. From 13 to 14 April, lecture theatres became venues for diplomatic discussions on the climate and its consequences, according to the news agency Orient. Participants from relevant universities practised the OSCE’s key principle – consensus-building – whilst learning to seek compromises at the intersection of economics, the environment and international interests. An international expert, joining remotely, emphasised that environmental degradation requires a combination of political experience and the energy of young people. William Leaf, Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat, noted that climate change affects the political, economic-environmental and humanitarian dimensions of security. According to him, such initiatives help to shape a new generation of leaders focused on dialogue and practical solutions. Under the guidance of trainers, the students simulated the decision-making process on climate-related case studies. The outcome of the discussions was the need for innovative and inclusive approaches to ensure sustainable environmental solutions. For the 25 participants, the project proved to be a valuable experience in the field of climate diplomacy.
Turkmenistan took part in the opening of the ECOSOC Youth Forum in New York
15.04.2026On 14 April, a delegation from the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan took part in the opening of the Youth Forum organised by the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) in New York. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan. The event is being held under the theme of the role of innovation and youth in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030 and brings together representatives from countries, UN bodies and partner organisations. Turkmenistan is represented at the forum by Gulnabat Gurdova, Head of the International Cooperation Department at the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan, and Wepa Gutlyev, Head of the Youth Policy Department. The first day is dedicated to the theme of engaging with young people to develop inclusive and sustainable solutions. The programme began with an official opening ceremony and speeches by high-ranking UN representatives, followed by a discussion on the role of youth initiatives in accelerating the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. Participants discussed the contribution of young leaders to addressing global challenges, including issues of social justice, climate and inclusive development, emphasising the need to expand youth participation in decision-making. The forum also features sessions on clean water, affordable energy and innovative development, addressing issues of sustainable infrastructure, digital transformation and entrepreneurship. Turkmenistan’s participation confirms the country’s commitment to developing international cooperation in the fields of youth policy, education and sustainable development, whilst the forum itself serves as a platform for exchanging experiences and promoting the role of young people in addressing global challenges.
Discussions were held in Ashgabat on the entry of Turkmen brands into the EU market
15.04.2026Turkmenistan’s private sector is preparing to enter the EU market, focusing on high value-added products and the development of its own brands. On 13 April, a seminar organised by the International Trade Centre (ITC) was held in Ashgabat, bringing together designers and representatives of the garment industry, according to the news agency Orient. For 29 small and medium-sized enterprises, participation in the EU trade development project served as a practical guide to the requirements of the European retail sector. The key objective is compliance with environmental and certification standards, including the principles of the ‘European Green Deal’. Participants studied market requirements and began developing their ‘Spring–Summer 2027’ collections, adapting national motifs for an international audience and shaping a unique brand identity. Particular attention was paid to product range strategy, visual merchandising and promotion – from collection planning to building a recognisable brand. The seminar served as preparation for participation in the ‘Who’s Next’ exhibition in Paris, where companies hope to establish contacts with buyers and strengthen their export potential.
The UNWTO has assessed the prospects for tourism development in Turkmenistan
15.04.2026Turkmenistan has the potential to become a competitive tourist destination, said Cordula Wohlmuther, Regional Director for Europe at the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), at the ‘Turkmentravel – 2026’ conference. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. According to her, Central Asia is emerging as a promising tourist region due to its shared heritage, favourable geographical location and growing connectivity. She also highlighted the region’s stability and security, noting Turkmenistan’s important role. The country’s cooperation with the UNWTO focuses on sustainable development, diversification of tourism products, digitalisation and attracting investment. The organisation intends to continue supporting the realisation of the country’s tourism potential.
Turkmenistan and Lithuania are strengthening their cooperation with the European Union
15.04.2026A meeting took place in Brussels between Sapar Palvanov, Turkmenistan’s Ambassador to Belgium, and Nerijus Aleksiejūnas, Lithuania’s Permanent Representative to the EU. The parties discussed Turkmenistan’s cooperation with the European Union and expressed an interest in expanding it, according to IIC. The interlocutors noted the need to intensify political contacts, expand practical cooperation and improve the legal framework. Particular attention was paid to the implementation of the ‘Global Gateway’ initiative. The priority areas identified were the development of transport connectivity, ensuring energy security, creating sustainable infrastructure and addressing climate issues. It was noted that cooperation in these areas contributes to the region’s economic development. The state of Turkmen-Lithuanian relations was also discussed. The parties confirmed their readiness to develop cooperation at the bilateral level and with European Union institutions.
Students from Turkmenistan beat Uzbekistan to become tournament champions
15.04.2026The Turkmenistan university team has won the volleyball competition at the CAVA 2026 Men’s and Women’s Universiade Games, an international sporting event for university teams from Central Asian countries. The tournament took place from 9 to 14 April in Samarkand (Republic of Uzbekistan), according to IIC. In the final match for the gold medals, the Turkmenistan national team faced the team from the Republic of Uzbekistan. In a hard-fought match, the Turkmen volleyball players secured a 3-1 victory and won the tournament’s gold medals. At the conclusion of the competition, the Turkmenistan national university team took first place.
The ‘TurkmenTourist’ app brings together travel services
15.04.2026The ‘Syýahatçy’ company unveiled an updated version of the ‘TurkmenTourist’ mobile app at the ‘Turkmentravel – 2026’ exhibition in Ashgabat. This was reported by IIC. A key new feature is the ability to purchase ‘Belavia’ airline tickets online. Users can book international flights directly through the app. The service is integrated with the ‘Türkmenhowaýollary’ (Turkmenistan Airlines) system, allowing users to manage routes within a single interface. Payment functionality has been expanded. The app supports Altyn Asyr cards, as well as the international Visa and MasterCard systems. In addition to ticket purchases, the service offers hotel bookings, customised tour selection, visa support and medical tourism services. The platform is being developed as a comprehensive digital solution for travel planning. Visitors to the exhibition can test the app’s updated features in real time.
The country’s tourism potential was showcased at a forum in Ashgabat
15.04.2026The Minister of Culture of Turkmenistan, Atageldi Shamyradov, highlighted the country’s significant tourism potential at the ‘Turkmentravel – 2026’ conference in Ashgabat. This was reported by Turkmenportal. According to him, Turkmenistan is home to historical tourist sites included on the UNESCO World Heritage List. These include ancient Merv and Old Nisa, which attract foreign tourists. The potential for ecotourism was also highlighted. Popular destinations include the Koytendag caves and sites with dinosaur footprints, which continue to be studied by experts. The Minister reported on the development of cruise tourism on the Caspian Sea. Work is being carried out in collaboration with Russia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Iran. The ‘Turkmentravel – 2026’ exhibition and conference are taking place in Ashgabat from 14 to 16 April.
Turkmenistan has called for the depoliticisation of the energy sector and global security
15.04.2026The escalating tensions in the Middle East are heightening the risks to global and regional stability. Turkmenistan’s position on these issues was outlined by the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, in an interview during his visit to Austria. This was reported by Shiri Shiriyev, Director of the Centre for Strategic Studies at the Institute of International Relations of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan, according to the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. According to him, the visit to Austria confirmed the development of bilateral cooperation. The countries are cooperating in the fields of energy, transport, healthcare and the promotion of ‘green’ technologies. The role of cultural exchange was also highlighted. During the International Vienna Energy and Climate Forum, proposals were put forward to strengthen energy security. These included the interdependence of state security, the depoliticisation of the energy sector and the expansion of international cooperation. The interview paid particular attention to the situation in the Middle East. The Turkmen side expressed concern over a possible escalation and the risks of the use of weapons of mass destruction, which could affect the environment and the socio-economic situation in the region. Turkmenistan’s position on the Caspian region was also highlighted. The inadmissibility of military activity contrary to the provisions of the Convention on the Legal Status of the Caspian Sea, which establishes it as a zone of peace and cooperation, was emphasised. Turkmenistan consistently advocates the resolution of conflicts through peaceful and diplomatic means and participates in international arms control initiatives.
A project to empower women has been implemented in Ashgabat
15.04.2026From 1 March to 10 April, a training course for women, organised with the support of the OSCE, took place in Ashgabat. The programme was aimed at developing practical skills and enhancing the economic independence of the participants, reports AsmanNews. The sessions took place at the ‘Binayim’ sewing workshop. Ten women from vulnerable groups took part in the course. They learnt national patchwork techniques and the basics of running a business. The programme included practical sewing sessions as well as consultations on legal and economic issues. The practical sessions were led by national trainer Umida Kadyrova. Ayjeren Orazberdiyeva, a representative of the Ministry of Finance and Economy of Turkmenistan, spoke on economic rights. Particular attention was paid to the use of recycled materials. The participants learnt methods of creating products at minimal cost whilst preserving traditional techniques. The organisers noted that the project aims to support women’s economic participation and the development of sustainable sources of income.
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