News
Turkmenistan discusses the development of the creative economy
14.08.2026A meeting on the development of Turkmenistan’s creative economy was held at the ‘Iş Nokady’ co-working centre. It was attended by representatives of government organisations, the creative sector, civil society organisations and experts, according to the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. Clare Allbless, a representative of the British Embassy in Turkmenistan, noted the country’s high creative, innovative and entrepreneurial potential and emphasised the UK’s willingness to share its experience. An important milestone in the sector’s development was the first International Forum on ‘The Creative and Innovative Economy of Turkmenistan’, held in Ashgabat in the spring of 2025. In 2026, Turkmen creatives also took part in the Creative Central Asia forum in Tashkent. A Department for the Development of the Creative and Innovative Economy has been established within the Union of Economists of Turkmenistan. Experts are analysing the state of the sector and developing a project to map creative and innovative industries. Participants discussed the sector’s prospects, business development and the potential of young people in IT and creative start-ups. The division’s work covers design, IT and media, crafts, fashion, the arts and innovative entrepreneurship.
The Ministry of Health of Turkmenistan and the WHO are stepping up emergency preparedness at the borders
14.08.2026A meeting between representatives of the Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan and the WHO country office took place at the UN building in Ashgabat. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The meeting was attended by representatives of the State Sanitary and Epidemiological Service, the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environmental Protection, and the State Customs, Migration and Border Services. The participants finalised the draft National Action Plan for Public Health Emergencies at Points of Entry and discussed measures to improve response mechanisms. The development of standard operating procedures for coordinating actions at the border was also considered. The meeting aimed to provide the Ministry of Health with advisory and technical support in accordance with the requirements of the International Health Regulations (IHR). WHO experts at global and regional levels presented the key provisions of the IHR, shared experience of operations at points of entry in the European Region, and provided materials for conducting simulation exercises. WHO confirmed its readiness to continue providing technical support to Turkmenistan in the implementation of the IHR.
Turkmenistan presented its transit and logistics capabilities to the ECO member states
14.08.2026On 12 August, an international video conference was held between the heads of the chambers of commerce and industry of the member states of the Economic Cooperation Organisation (ECO). This was reported by the press office of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan. The participants discussed the development of economic cooperation, trade integration and the strengthening of inter-regional ties. The Turkmen side presented the country’s transit and logistics capabilities, as well as approaches to increasing trade turnover and expanding export potential. Separate consideration was given to the organisation of joint exhibitions and business forums involving entrepreneurs from ECO member states. Turkmenistan reaffirmed its readiness to develop economic cooperation with the organisation’s member states on a long-term basis. The ECO comprises ten member states: Turkmenistan, Iran, Turkey, Pakistan, Azerbaijan, Afghanistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.
Ashgabat to host the ITTC 2026 International Logistics Forum
14.08.2026The fifth International Logistics Forum and ITTC 2026 exhibition, entitled ‘International Transport and Transit Corridors: Interconnection and Development – 2026’, will take place in Ashgabat from 24 to 26 November. The event will take place at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan, according to the online publication ‘Business Turkmenistan’. The organisers are ‘Talwas Ýoly’ CJSC, a division of OGUZ Forum & Expo, the Ministry of Road Transport, the Ministry of Rail Transport, the State Service ‘Türkmenhowaýollary’, the State Service for Maritime and River Transport, the Transport and Logistics Centre and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan. The programme will cover the development of transport infrastructure and transit corridors, multimodal transport, the digitalisation of the sector, the development of the Middle Corridor and routes across the Caspian Sea, investment, air freight and sustainable transport. More than 500 delegates, over 1,000 trade visitors and more than 100 companies from over 25 countries are expected to attend. B2B and B2G business meetings are also planned. Registration for the forum and exhibition is now open.
Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov undertook a working visit to the city of Arkadag
14.08.2026On 13 August, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, undertook a working visit to the city of Arkadag. The Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan familiarised himself with the projects for the second phase of construction and held a working meeting attended by the heads of relevant agencies, reports AsmanNews. During the site visit, D. Orazov, Chairman of the State Committee for the Construction of the City of Arkadag under the President of Turkmenistan, and G. Mammedova, the city’s Governor, provided information on the progress of construction work and the planned social facilities. These include a specialised secondary school with an in-depth foreign language programme, a nursery school with capacity for 320 children, and a sports complex. The National Leader of the Turkmen people made suggestions regarding the architectural and design solutions for the facilities. Hero Arkadag emphasised the need to comply with modern requirements and international standards, as well as to ensure the quality and timely completion of the works. Particular attention was paid to the project for the specialised school. The need for modern equipment in classrooms, including language laboratories, the development of an up-to-date curriculum and the organisation of subject-based clubs was highlighted. Tasks were also set regarding the improvement of the site and the provision of digital updates to parents on pupils’ academic progress and behaviour. This was followed by a working meeting attended by D. Orazov, Chair of the State Committee for the Construction of the City of Arkadag under the President of Turkmenistan, and G. Mammedova, the city’s Governor. During the meeting, D. Orazov reported that the ‘Arkadag’ football team had qualified for the group stage of the AFC Champions League 2. The National Leader of the Turkmen people wished the players every success and recommended visiting the team. The progress of the second phase of the city’s construction was also discussed. The National Leader of the Turkmen people emphasised the need for coordinated work by the organisations involved, high-quality facilities and adherence to the deadlines for their commissioning. Particular attention was paid to the mosque currently under construction, which will seat 30,000 people. At the suggestion of the local community, it has been named ‘Arkadagyň ruhy metjidi’, a name registered by the Ministry of Justice. A proposal to develop the adjacent madrasah, taking into account international experience and relevant educational standards, was also approved. In addition, a proposal was made to hold a festive sadaqah at the ‘Märkaw’ cultural and entertainment centre to mark the registration of the new mosque. The proposal was approved. To conclude his working visit, the National Leader of the Turkmen people visited the ‘Ruhyýet’ Palace. Against the backdrop of preparations for the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s independence, the next session of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan and International Neutrality Day, discussions are taking place on ensuring the readiness of conference centres and the beautification of the city for the upcoming events.
The President of Turkmenistan congratulated the Pakistani leadership on Independence Day
14.08.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, has congratulated the President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Asif Ali Zardari, the Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, and the people of Pakistan on Independence Day. This was reported by the TDH news agency. The Head of State noted the solidarity and unity of the Pakistani people, emphasising their desire to determine their own future. Serdar Berdimuhamedov also noted that relations between Turkmenistan and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan are developing on the basis of mutual respect, equality and peace. The President of Turkmenistan expressed his readiness to further expand bilateral cooperation, taking into account the available opportunities. The Head of State wished the leadership of Pakistan good health and success in their work, and the people of the country peace, prosperity and progress.
The UN resolution initiated by Turkmenistan has been published in six languages
14.08.2026UN General Assembly Resolution 80/295, ‘International Year of Law, 2028’, initiated by Turkmenistan, has been published in the six official languages of the UN. The document proclaims 2028 as the Year of International Law and highlights the key role of the UN Charter in maintaining peace and security, according to the IIC of Turkmenistan. Member States and UN bodies are invited to organise educational and awareness-raising events as part of the thematic year. The resolution also welcomes Turkmenistan’s intention to organise a Global Forum on International Law in December 2028. Funding for the events is to be provided through voluntary contributions. The UN Secretary-General has been tasked with circulating the resolution amongst states, international organisations, civil society and the academic community.
A book fair for children and families is to be held in Ashgabat
14.08.2026The International Book Fair will be one of the highlights of the KIDS EXPO 2026 exhibition — books, literary discoveries and interactive activities await children and adults alike. This is reported by the news agency Orient. From 19 to 22 August 2026 in Ashgabat, visitors can look forward to a large book area for children and adults, where they will be able to discover new publications, choose books for the whole family and take part in literary events. The fair will feature a wide selection of books in various languages — fiction, educational, informative and developmental literature, books on child-rearing and child development, as well as publications for family reading and self-education. Libraries, bookshops and international cultural organisations – the French Institute in Turkmenistan and the Iranian Cultural Centre in Turkmenistan – will be taking part. Their involvement will enable visitors to experience a variety of literary traditions, languages and cultures, as well as introducing the audience to new publications and works from different countries. The book zone will appeal not only to book lovers: visitors will be able to buy books, discover new releases and take part in an interactive programme for children. Literary readings, quizzes, educational games and other activities are planned for young guests. Particular attention will be paid to family reading and fostering an interest in literature among children and teenagers. Parents will be able to choose books for their children, explore literature on child-rearing and child development, and find books for their own reading and self-education. The International Book Fair will form part of the KIDS EXPO 2026 cultural and educational programme, which brings together books, education, creativity and family leisure. The international exhibition and fair ‘KIDS EXPO: Everything for Children’ will take place from 19 to 22 August at the Exhibition Centre of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan in Ashgabat. The exhibition is organised by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan and TurkmenExpo.
Ashgabat is set to host its first international children’s chess tournament
14.08.2026On 19–20 August, Ashgabat will host the first-ever ‘Kids Expo Chess Cup 2026’ international chess tournament — a rapid and blitz competition for young chess players in the U8, U10 and U12 categories from more than 15 countries. The tournament will form part of the business and sports programme of the international exhibition and trade fair ‘KIDS EXPO: Everything for Children’, which will take place in the Turkmen capital from 19 to 22 August, according to the news website Turkmenportal. Young players from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Iran and other countries will compete at the chessboards. The competitions will be held in accordance with the rules of the International Chess Federation (FIDE). In addition to the young participants, representatives of international and national chess federations, grandmasters and champions from Turkey, Jordan, Cambodia, Nepal, Pakistan, Japan, Sri Lanka, Syria and Libya will be travelling to Ashgabat. The organisers hope to bring together young chess players, professional players and representatives of the international chess community in one venue to exchange experiences and foster connections within the field of children’s chess. A supporting programme has been organised for participants and visitors to the exhibition: a free-play area, masterclasses, educational events, presentations and a chess quiz. A separate programme of events has been arranged for teachers, coaches and organisers of chess programmes. The tournament is organised and supported by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan, the International School Chess Federation (ISCF), the Turkic Chess Association (TCA), the Freedom Asian Chess Initiatives (FACI) programme of the Kazakhstan Chess Federation, the Chess Federation of Turkmenistan and TurkmenExpo. The tournament will take place at the Exhibition Centre of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan and will be the first official international chess competition organised in the country.
A student from the IIR MFA of Turkmenistan attended language courses in Germany
14.08.2026Myahri Guzychiyeva, a fourth-year student at the Faculty of International Economic Relations of the Institute of International Relations under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, has completed an international intensive German language course programme, ‘Hochschulsommerkurse’, in the Federal Republic of Germany. This was reported by the press office of the Turkmen university. The programme is designed to improve students’ language proficiency and familiarise them with German culture, socio-political structure, economy and education system. The classes covered grammar and vocabulary, academic writing, phonetics, listening comprehension and the development of speaking skills. As part of the programme, participants visited historical and cultural sites, museums and other institutions. In this educational environment, students from around 150 countries had the opportunity to forge international contacts and broaden their knowledge of other cultures. Participation in the ‘Hochschulsommerkurse’ provided the student with an opportunity to improve her language skills and gain international academic experience.
The Ambassador of Turkmenistan held a meeting with the Secretary-General of the Benelux Union
14.08.2026A meeting took place in Brussels between the Ambassador of Turkmenistan, Sapar Palvanov, and the Secretary-General of the Benelux Union, Ariadne Petridis. The parties discussed the prospects for Turkmenistan’s engagement with the Benelux countries and the strengthening of cooperation between Central Asia and Europe, according to the press office of the Turkmen diplomatic mission. Particular attention was paid to the development of Turkmenistan’s relations with the European Union. In this regard, the possibility of working together to mutually exempt holders of diplomatic and service passports from visa requirements was considered. The representative of the Benelux Union provided information on current procedures and expressed her willingness to facilitate further dialogue. The parties also discussed the exchange of experience in the field of regional cooperation and institutional interaction. The Secretary-General expressed her willingness to share the Benelux’s experience in inter-state coordination and the functioning of regional mechanisms. During the meeting, Sapar Palvanov provided an update on the preparations for an international equestrian event to be held on 4–6 September 2026 at the Peelbergen Equestrian Centre in Kronenberg, the Netherlands. Representatives of the General Secretariat of the Benelux Union were invited to attend the event.
The ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone celebrated Caspian Sea Day
14.08.2026On 12 August, events marking Caspian Sea Day were held in the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone. The main event was a scientific and practical conference entitled ‘Preserving the Ecosystem of the Caspian Sea: Regional Cooperation and Sustainable Development’, according to the TDH news agency. The forum was attended by members of the national government, representatives of ministries and departments, scientific institutions, diplomatic missions, and international and regional organisations. Participants discussed issues relating to the conservation of the Caspian Sea ecosystem, the protection of biodiversity, the rational use of natural resources and the development of regional cooperation. Particular attention was paid to Turkmenistan’s ‘Caspian Environmental Initiative’ and the proposal to hold the Caspian Environmental Forum in 2026. An address by the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, was read out at the opening of the conference. The Head of State noted the priority of preserving the Caspian’s unique ecosystem and emphasised the need for the Caspian states and international organisations to join forces. During the forum, participants reviewed the implementation of the Framework Convention on the Protection of the Marine Environment of the Caspian Sea, which entered into force on 12 August 2006. This year marks the 20th anniversary of its entry into force. The document serves as the legal basis for cooperation among the Caspian littoral states in the field of environmental protection and sustainable use of natural resources. Particular attention was paid to the falling water level of the Caspian Sea, climate change, the monitoring of the marine environment and biological resources, the development of scientific research, and the introduction of modern technologies. Participants called for an expansion of information exchange and the establishment of a Caspian scientific partnership. Turkmenistan’s international environmental initiatives were also discussed, including the establishment of a Regional Centre for Climate Change Technologies in Central Asia and a Regional Centre for Combating Desertification. As part of the event, an exhibition was held dedicated to the nature of the Caspian Sea and the country’s achievements in the field of environmental protection. Following the conference, the participants adopted an Appeal to the President of Turkmenistan. The document emphasised the importance of further developing cooperation among the Caspian states with a view to preserving the Caspian ecosystem and strengthening regional collaboration. On the same day, the Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Foreign Affairs Minister, R. Meredov, held meetings with Serhan Aktoprak, the International Organisation for Migration’s Regional Coordinator for Central Asia; Beata Peksa, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the European Union to Turkmenistan; Xiaojun Grace Wang, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan; and William Leaf, Head of the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) Centre in Ashgabat. The parties discussed the sustainable development of the Caspian region, environmental protection, environmental diplomacy, the transition to a ‘green’ economy and energy security. Opportunities for implementing joint projects to preserve the Caspian ecosystem were considered separately. Representatives of international and regional organisations reaffirmed their readiness to support Turkmenistan’s environmental initiatives and projects aimed at achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals. As part of the events marking Caspian Sea Day, sporting competitions were also held among forum delegates, with the participation of representatives from foreign diplomatic missions and international organisations in Turkmenistan.
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