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The C5+1 seminar on digital technologies has concluded in Ashgabat
18.09.2026A two-day ‘C5+1’ seminar in Ashgabat, focusing on artificial intelligence, digital technologies, cyber security and information and communications infrastructure, has come to a close. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. The event, held with the support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, brought together representatives of government bodies from Central Asian countries and the USA, as well as international companies and experts. Participants discussed the implementation of digital solutions, enhancing the resilience and security of networks, and the protection of critical information infrastructure. Particular attention was paid to the application of artificial intelligence, the development of satellite communications, radio spectrum management and the establishment of data centres. During the seminar, the delegations exchanged experiences, explored opportunities for attracting investment in technology projects and discussed further areas of cooperation.
Turkmenistan is developing a spiritual and educational environment in the city of Arkadag
18.09.2026The construction of the mosque in the city of Arkadag is one of the most notable projects in the emerging architectural and spiritual landscape of the new city. The scale of the project, its location and the development of educational infrastructure in the vicinity mean that the future mosque can be viewed not only as a religious building, but also as part of a broader process of shaping the urban environment. The mosque, designed to accommodate 30,000 people, has been named ‘Arkadagyň ruhy metjidi’. The decision on the name has been registered by the Ministry of Justice in accordance with the established procedure. The madrasah located nearby is an equally important component. It is intended to provide facilities for teaching, staff accommodation and student accommodation and leisure. The areas of study and the content of the educational programmes are also being considered. The design of the madrasah provides for the use of modern equipment and the incorporation of international best practice in the field of Islamic education. This combination of religious and educational spaces is significant for the very character of the new city. The city of Arkadag continues to take shape as a comprehensive urban environment, where public, cultural, educational and spiritual facilities are integrated into a single architectural concept. Furthermore, particular attention is being paid to combining modern architectural solutions and cutting-edge technologies with the traditions of national architecture. This principle takes on special significance for the future mosque: the building must blend harmoniously into the city’s architectural ensemble, whilst preserving the characteristic elements of religious and national architecture. The progress of construction and the development of the city of Arkadag are regularly reviewed during working visits by the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. During these working visits, Hero Arkadag familiarises himself with the pace of project implementation, architectural solutions and the plans drawn up for new facilities. In addition, Turkmenistan is also carrying out a project to build a mosque in Fizuli, Azerbaijan, which is being constructed as a gift to the brotherly people. Its construction is also ongoing. The mosque in Fizuli has a capacity of 500 people and is being built on a site covering more than one hectare. The construction of the mosque has become one of the specific projects linking the architectural development of the two states. Thus, from the overall urban development plan to specific solutions regarding architecture, urban improvements and educational infrastructure, the city of Arkadag continues to take shape as a unified space in which the future mosque is set to occupy a prominent place.
Turkmenistan and the Republic of Korea are set to expand their cooperation in the field of education
17.09.2026As part of the state visit by the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, to the Republic of Korea, the Minister of Education of Turkmenistan, J. Gurbangeldiyev, met with the Director of the National Assembly Library of the Republic of Korea, Hwang Jeong Geun. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed prospects for cooperation in the fields of education, scientific and information activities, and the preservation of cultural heritage. Particular attention was paid to the interest shown by Turkmen youth in studying the Korean language and culture. During the meeting, proposals were put forward to expand academic cooperation and provide lecturers and students at Turkmen universities with access to the library’s digital and bibliographic resources. The organisation of a mutual book exchange, including academic publications, electronic databases and audiovisual materials, was also discussed. It is expected that this cooperation will enable the Turkmen side to gain access to materials on Korean law and public administration. In turn, South Korean researchers will be able to broaden their opportunities to study the historical and cultural heritage of the Turkmen people. Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their readiness to implement the agreements reached in practice.
A training course on environmental journalism for the media was held in Ashgabat
17.09.2026A two-day training session for representatives of the national media on covering environmental issues was held at the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat, according to IIC of Turkmenistan. The event was attended by staff from state media, television and leading online media platforms. The Head of the OSCE Centre, Ambassador William Leaf, delivered a welcome address, noting that the modern security ecosystem is directly linked to the state of the environment and the public’s access to reliable information. Participants studied a practical guide to environmental journalism published by UNESCO and the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media. Under the guidance of expert Angelina Davydova, they discussed international trends and developed media projects in small groups. A separate section of the programme was devoted to the application of artificial intelligence in newsroom work, the ethical aspects of its use and countering misinformation. Media trainer Marat Sadykov and AI implementation expert Batyr Rejepov introduced the journalists to the tools Gemini Notebook, ChatGPT and Typeless, which enable the processing of large data sets, the transcription of audio recordings and the structuring of content. The experts emphasised that artificial intelligence can only act as an assistant, whilst the responsibility for fact-checking, analysis and writing style remains with the journalist.
Serdar Berdimuhamedov highlighted the potential for cooperation in the field of medicine
17.09.2026At the high-level Turkmen-Korean business forum in Seoul, the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, described healthcare and medicine as a promising area for bilateral cooperation. This was reported by the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The Head of State noted the involvement of South Korean companies in the creation of a modern medical cluster in the city of Arkadag. According to the President of Turkmenistan, the project could serve as a platform for the introduction of cutting-edge medical technologies and innovations, as well as for the joint training of qualified specialists. Serdar Berdimuhamedov emphasised the Turkmenistan Government’s readiness to support South Korean businesses and create favourable conditions for the implementation of joint projects.
Turkmenistan presented the potential of nuclear science for LLDCs in Vienna
17.09.2026On 14 September 2026, in Vienna, as part of the 70th session of the IAEA General Conference, a side event entitled ‘Atoms for LLDCs: From Commitment to Action – Nuclear Science for the Implementation of the Awaza Programme of Action’ was held, organised by the Permanent Mission of Turkmenistan to the IAEA. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. Participants discussed the application of nuclear science and technology for the advancement of healthcare and sustainable development in landlocked developing countries. IAEA Deputy Director General and Head of the Department of Nuclear Sciences and Applications, Najat Mokhtar, and Azat Ovezov, Deputy Minister of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan, emphasised the need to develop infrastructure, introduce modern technologies and train specialists in the field of cancer prevention and treatment. Issues relating to radiotherapy, nuclear medicine, medical physics, cancer care planning and staff training were also discussed. Particular attention was paid to the IAEA’s Technical Cooperation Programme, PACT and the ‘Rays of Hope’ initiative. Following the meeting, the importance of international partnership, investment and capacity-building for the implementation of the Awaza Action Programme and for expanding LLDCs’ access to the peaceful uses of nuclear science and technology was emphasised. The 70th session of the IAEA General Conference will continue in Vienna until 18 September 2026.
The flag of Turkmenistan was raised at an altitude of 3,300 metres
17.09.2026The flag of Turkmenistan was raised on the Golubin Glacier in the Ala-Archa Gorge at an altitude of 3,300 metres above sea level. The ascent was timed to coincide with the 35th anniversary of the country’s independence, according to the IIC of Turkmenistan. The event was organised by Dinara Begliyeva, a postgraduate student at the Kazakh-German University, as part of an international research programme on climate change and water resource conservation in Central Asia.
Korean companies have been invited to take part in transport projects in Turkmenistan
17.09.2026During his state visit to the Republic of Korea, the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, addressed the high-level Turkmen-Korean business forum. The Head of State identified the development of transport and logistics infrastructure as one of the key areas of cooperation, according to the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. Serdar Berdimuhamedov highlighted Turkmenistan’s potential to strengthen its role as a transport and logistics hub on the Eurasian continent, linking Central Asia with the Caspian region and international transport corridors. Ashgabat is prepared to consider proposals from South Korean companies regarding participation in major infrastructure projects aimed at creating modern transport and logistics systems.
Turkmenistan has set out the priorities for the economic partnership between Central Asia and South Korea
17.09.2026On September 16, during a state visit to the Republic of Korea, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov addressed the first ‘Republic of Korea – Central Asia’ Business Summit, outlining the main areas of economic, trade, investment, and business cooperation, according to the TDH news agency. The Head of State highlighted the role of business communities in implementing new projects and developing inter-state relations. According to Serdar Berdimuhamedov, the economic and technological potential of Central Asia and the Republic of Korea creates opportunities for expanding cooperation. Serdar Berdimuhamedov expressed Turkmenistan’s readiness to facilitate direct contacts between business communities, business exchanges and the implementation of partnership initiatives. The President of Turkmenistan highlighted the participation of South Korean companies and financial institutions in joint projects with Turkmenistan. Serdar Berdimuhamedov paid particular attention to transport and logistics cooperation, describing this area as a strategic priority. The Head of State called on the business community to participate in the creation of sustainable transport corridors and the development of logistics connectivity between Central Asia and Korea. He said that Turkmenistan is ready to provide the necessary support in this area. The President of Turkmenistan also highlighted the outcomes of the first ‘Republic of Korea – Central Asia’ Summit, emphasising that the exchange of views that took place confirmed the parties’ interest in deepening multifaceted cooperation. Following the Business Summit, a Joint Statement is due to be adopted, and agreements and memoranda of understanding are to be signed. It is expected that the agreements reached will contribute to the expansion of business ties and mutual trade between the Central Asian states and Korea.
Serdar Berdimuhamedov presented Turkmenistan’s initiatives at the Seoul Summit
17.09.2026On September 16, during his state visit to the Republic of Korea, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov addressed the first ‘Republic of Korea – Central Asia’ Summit, outlining the main areas for further cooperation between the countries. This was reported by AsmanNews. The Head of State noted that the summit lays the foundation for a new phase of cooperation between the Republic of Korea and the Central Asian states. Serdar Berdimuhamedov thanked the President of the Republic of Korea, Lee Jae-myung, for his hospitality and for organising the summit. The President of Turkmenistan emphasised that Turkmenistan regards peace and trust as essential conditions for sustainable development. The country’s foreign policy is based on its status of permanent neutrality, which has been recognised three times by the United Nations General Assembly. Among the priority areas for cooperation, Serdar Berdimuhamedov highlighted urban development and infrastructure. In this regard, he presented Turkmenistan’s ‘Smart Cities Diplomacy’ initiative, which provides for the exchange of experience and information, the joint implementation of scientific and technical achievements, and the development of modern urban planning models. Other areas identified included industry, agriculture, the environment, water issues, healthcare, the service sector and tourism. In the field of education, Turkmenistan proposed developing cooperation between educational institutions in Central Asia and the Republic of Korea, including dual-degree programmes. It was also proposed to broaden young people’s digital literacy and to organise joint academic competitions, contests and conferences. In the field of science, the Head of State advocated stepping up joint research by young scientists and establishing an Institute to support the development and implementation of innovative ideas by young people. In the cultural sphere, a Roadmap for Intercultural Exchanges between Young People from Central Asian Countries and the Republic of Korea and the ‘Young Talents’ programme were proposed. Turkmenistan also called for the development of sporting cooperation and for consideration to be given to organising International Youth Sports Games involving Central Asian countries and the Republic of Korea. The President of Turkmenistan highlighted the importance of parliamentary diplomacy as a complement to inter-governmental cooperation and as a mechanism for building trust. In conclusion, Serdar Berdimuhamedov expressed Turkmenistan’s readiness to contribute to building trust and fostering an equal and mutually beneficial partnership, and to participate actively in this new format.
The President of Turkmenistan took part in the first ‘Republic of Korea – Central Asia’ Summit
17.09.2026On 16 September, as part of a state visit to the Republic of Korea, the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, took part in the first ‘Republic of Korea – Central Asia’ Summit. This was reported by the news agency TDH. The meeting marked the first summit of Heads of State in this format. It was also attended by the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev; the President of the Kyrgyz Republic, Sadyr Japarov; the President of the Republic of Tajikistan, Emomali Rahmon; and the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev. The President of the Republic of Korea, Lee Jae-myung, highlighted the significance of this new format for the development of cooperation between the Central Asian countries and the Republic of Korea. In his address, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov expressed his gratitude to the Korean side for their hospitality and for organising the summit. The Head of State emphasised that the meeting lays the foundation for a new phase of cooperation. The President of Turkmenistan noted that Turkmenistan’s foreign policy is based on its status of permanent neutrality, which has been recognised three times by the United Nations General Assembly. Peace, stability and trust were cited as prerequisites for sustainable development. Turkmenistan identified urban development and infrastructure as priority areas for cooperation. In this regard, the ‘Smart Cities Diplomacy’ initiative was presented, providing for the exchange of experience, the joint implementation of scientific and technical achievements, and the development of modern urban planning models. Industry, agriculture, the environment, water resources, healthcare, the service sector and tourism were also highlighted. In the field of education, Turkmenistan proposed developing cooperation between universities in Central Asian countries and the Republic of Korea, including dual-degree programmes. It was also proposed to expand young people’s digital literacy, organise joint academic competitions, contests and conferences, stimulate research by young scientists, and establish an Institute to support the development and implementation of innovative ideas by young people. In the cultural sphere, it was proposed to implement the Roadmap for Intercultural Exchanges between Young People from Central Asian Countries and the Republic of Korea and the ‘Young Talents’ programme. Particular attention was paid to the development of sporting ties and the possibility of holding International Youth Sports Games between Central Asian countries and the Republic of Korea. The President of Turkmenistan also highlighted the importance of parliamentary diplomacy as an additional mechanism for strengthening trust and inter-state cooperation. The Heads of State discussed the processing of raw materials using Korean technology, the joint development of deposits, the establishment of industrial enterprises and transport corridors, the development of logistics, projects in the field of artificial intelligence, the digitalisation of public services, the introduction of ‘green’ technologies and adaptation to climate change. Following the Summit, the Seoul Declaration of the first ‘Republic of Korea – Central Asia’ Summit was adopted. In addition, Serdar Berdimuhamedov also took part in a special session of the ‘Republic of Korea – Central Asia’ Business Summit, held under the motto ‘Future Cooperation between the Republic of Korea and Central Asia for Growth and Innovation’. The Head of Turkmenistan highlighted the role of the business community in developing economic, trade, investment and technological cooperation. Particular attention was paid to transport and logistics, and to the creation of sustainable transport corridors between Central Asia and Korea. During the Business Summit, discussions centred on issues relating to geology and the processing of mineral resources, energy, ‘green’ energy, the introduction of South Korean technologies, the creation of multimodal transport corridors and the enhancement of the region’s transit potential. Thematic sessions covered cooperation on rare-earth resources, energy and supply chains, the expansion of trade and investment, the simplification of trade and customs procedures, lending through South Korean financial institutions, the establishment of high-tech manufacturing facilities, and the development of transport and logistics. Following the Business Summit, a number of documents were adopted and signed. Upon completion of his state visit, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov departed from Seoul for Turkmenistan. The Head of State was met by members of the Government at the international airport in the Turkmen capital. During the visit, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov was awarded the title of ‘Honorary Doctor of Political Science’ and presented with an honorary badge from the Korean International Trade Association.
Seoul has thanked Ashgabat for its assistance in evacuating Korean nationals
17.09.2026During a meeting with the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, the President of the Republic of Korea, Lee Jae-myung, expressed his gratitude to the Turkmen side for its assistance and for providing a transit corridor for the evacuation of citizens of the Republic of Korea during a period of political instability in the region. This was reported by the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The President of the Republic of Korea noted that this humanitarian initiative was a testament to the friendly relations and high level of trust between the two countries. The parties also discussed issues of bilateral cooperation and the regional agenda. Lee Jae-myung highlighted Turkmenistan’s economic and resource potential, noting the implementation of major joint projects and the development of industrial cooperation. The President of the Republic of Korea also thanked President Serdar Berdimuhamedov for creating favourable conditions for South Korean businesses operating in Turkmenistan and reaffirmed his readiness to further expand and deepen the comprehensive partnership.
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