News
Turkmen artist awarded the Medal of the Academy of the Turkic World
19.03.2026A major art exhibition and awards ceremony, organised by the Academy of Art of the Turkic World, took place in Baku. The event brought together renowned painters and cultural figures from across the Turkic world and continued the creative programme launched last year in Istanbul. This was reported by IIC. Among the guests of honour were Azerbaijan’s Deputy Minister of Culture Murat Huseynov, TURKSOY Secretary-General Sultan Raev and the President of the Academy of Art of the Turkic World, Sakit Mammadov. Turkmen artist Amanmyrat Modyev received the Academy’s medal for his special contribution to the promotion of the cultural and artistic values of the Turkic peoples. Amanmyrat Modyev was born on 11 November 1983 in the Babadayhan etrap of the Ahal velayat. He teaches at the State Academy of Arts of Turkmenistan, passing on his experience to the younger generation. Earlier, in 2022, the painter won a competition among artists from Central Asia and Kazakhstan, and was also awarded the President of Turkmenistan’s ‘Türkmeniň Altyn asyry’ prize. The exhibition took place from 13 to 17 March at the Art Gallery of the Turkic World and showcased the finest works of art by the Turkic peoples, attracting great interest from culture enthusiasts.
Turkmenistan on a growth trajectory: results of the four-year period
19.03.202619 March marks the fourth anniversary of Serdar Berdimuhamedov’s inauguration as President of Turkmenistan. This period has been marked by the continuation of the strategic course set by the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, and the implementation of large-scale reforms in the socio-economic and foreign policy spheres. This is reported by AsmanNews. The presidential elections on 12 March 2022, held on a competitive basis, opened a new stage in the country’s development, confirming the continuity of state policy and the focus on modernising governance. The key development guideline is the long-term socio-economic development programme up to 2052, which provides for economic diversification, the introduction of digital technologies and the strengthening of the private sector. In pursuit of these objectives, Turkmenistan is demonstrating robust macroeconomic performance: by the end of 2025, GDP growth stood at 6.3%, investment volumes increased, and the construction of infrastructure projects continued. On the international stage, Turkmenistan remains committed to a policy of permanent neutrality and actively promotes initiatives within the United Nations. Significant steps include the adoption of resolutions on the country’s Permanent Neutrality and the declaration of 2025 as the International Year of Peace and Trust. Particular attention is being paid to the development of cultural and humanitarian cooperation, engagement with UNESCO, and the promotion of the national heritage. Turkmenistan is expanding its participation in international programmes and strengthening its position in the global cultural sphere. Thus, the four-year period of Serdar Berdimuhamedov’s presidency is characterised by the consistent implementation of a comprehensive strategy aimed at sustainable development, improving the quality of life of the population and strengthening the country’s international standing.
Chinese companies are strengthening ties with Turkmen businesses at the ‘IFT 2026’ forum
19.03.2026The business consultancy company ‘Huahe International’ plans to use the Silk Road Economic Alliance platform to promote Turkmenistan’s investment climate among Chinese enterprises and to develop permanent trade channels in key sectors of bilateral cooperation. This was announced by the company’s founder and CEO, Liu Chuanwu, at the International Forum ‘Investing in the Future of Turkmenistan’ (‘IFT 2026’), reports Turkmenportal. According to Liu Chuanwu, ‘Huahe International’ has been operating in the field of international business consultancy for many years, facilitating cross-border cooperation between Chinese and foreign organisations. In 2014, the company initiated the establishment of the Silk Road Economic Alliance, of which the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs of Turkmenistan is a member. The company’s Head highlighted three areas of cooperation: promoting Turkmenistan’s investment opportunities among Chinese companies; expanding cooperation with Turkmen businesses in the fields of agricultural machinery, energy equipment, chemical products and agricultural goods, including professional support for procurement in China; and organising regular bilateral business visits and negotiation missions. ‘Turkmenistan has a stable investment environment, abundant natural resources and enormous investment potential,’ noted Liu Chuanwu, adding that the capabilities of Chinese enterprises ‘fully meet the needs of Turkmenistan’s industrial development.’ The ‘IFT 2026’ Forum is being held to mark the 18th anniversary of the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs of Turkmenistan. More than 500 delegates from 25 countries are taking part in the event.
Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov congratulated the President of Turkmenistan
19.03.2026The National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, has sent a congratulatory message to the President of Turkmenistan on the occasion of his inauguration. This was reported by TDH. The message notes that the victory in the 2022 presidential election reflected the trust of the people and was achieved in an atmosphere of openness and choice. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov emphasised that the declaration of 2026 under the motto ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’ reflects the continuity of state traditions and the country’s development. He also highlighted Turkmenistan’s contribution to the development of international cooperation and the promotion of initiatives across various areas of diplomacy, including economic, energy and humanitarian spheres. In conclusion, the National Leader of the Turkmen people wished the President of Turkmenistan good health, a long life and continued success in his state duties.
Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov held negotiations with Xi Jinping in China
19.03.2026During his visit to the People’s Republic of China, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, held an official meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping on 18 March. This was reported by AsmanNews. The negotiations took place following a welcoming ceremony and a joint photo session. Xi Jinping noted that the visit is seen as confirmation of the high level of bilateral relations, and conveyed greetings to President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, congratulating the leadership of Turkmenistan on the Nowruz holiday. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov emphasised that Turkmenistan attaches priority to the development of cooperation with China and conveyed his own greetings in return. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of cooperation, noting the expansion of partnership within the framework of the UN and the ‘Central Asia–China’ format. It was noted that bilateral relations are developing as a comprehensive strategic partnership and cover politics, the economy, trade, science, education and culture. Particular attention was paid to the fuel and energy sector, including projects at the ‘Galkynysh’ field. The parties also explored opportunities for cooperation in the transport and logistics sector within the framework of aligning the ‘Revival of the Great Silk Road’ strategy with the ‘Belt and Road’ initiative. Projects in the fields of science, education, healthcare and agriculture were discussed, including the introduction of technologies and the development of ‘green’ energy. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov presented Xi Jinping with an invitation from the President of Turkmenistan to visit the country. At the conclusion of the meeting, the parties expressed confidence in the further strengthening of their partnership. As part of the gift-exchange ceremony, an Ahal-Teke horse named Gadyrly was presented to the President of the People’s Republic of China on behalf of the President of Turkmenistan. Xi Jinping expressed his gratitude for the gift, noting the high esteem in which Ahal-Teke horses are held in China. The visit of the National Leader of the Turkmen people to China continues.
Turkmenistan and CNPC have identified new areas for partnership
19.03.2026During his visit to the People’s Republic of China, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, held a meeting on 18 March with Dai Houliang, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC). This was reported by TDH. Before the start of the talks, the Head of the corporation introduced the members of the delegation, after which a joint photo session took place. Dai Houliang conveyed greetings to President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and noted the high level of Turkmen-Chinese cooperation. He also congratulated the leadership of Turkmenistan on the upcoming Nowruz holiday. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov emphasised that Turkmenistan attaches particular importance to the development of its partnership with China. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of cooperation, confirming their readiness to further expand cooperation with CNPC. It was noted that bilateral ties cover a wide range of areas, with the fuel and energy sector remaining key. The role of CNPC as one of Turkmenistan’s reliable partners in the oil and gas industry was highlighted. During the meeting, the 20-year history of cooperation was highlighted, in connection with which it was proposed to hold an international scientific and practical conference. Particular attention was paid to the implementation of the ‘Turkmenistan–China’ gas pipeline and the next phase of development of the ‘Galkynysh’ field, which has contributed to the creation of new jobs. The parties also discussed regional projects, including the ‘Serhetabat–Herat’ section of the TAPI gas pipeline. Following the talks, the participants expressed confidence in the further development of a mutually beneficial partnership.
Turkmenistan and UNHCR discussed cooperation and the elimination of statelessness
18.03.2026On 18 March 2026, Myahri Byashimova, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan, held a meeting with Mahir Safarli, Regional Representative of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Central Asia, according to the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. At the start of the meeting, M. Safarli presented a letter confirming his appointment as Regional Representative. M. Byashimova congratulated him and wished him success in his work. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of cooperation between Turkmenistan and UNHCR, and exchanged views on issues relating to the regional and international humanitarian agenda. The importance of interaction with UNHCR within the framework of Turkmenistan’s cooperation with the UN was emphasised, as was the country’s commitment to its international obligations in the field of protecting refugees and stateless persons. Particular attention was paid to the elimination of statelessness. Turkmenistan’s achievements were noted, including the implementation of the National Action Plan for 2019–2024 and the organisation of the Regional Ministerial Conference on the Eradication of Statelessness in Ashgabat in November 2024. The country’s participation in UNHCR’s global initiatives was discussed, including the Global Alliance to End Statelessness and the Global Forums on Refugees. Prospects for cooperation within the framework of the initiative to declare 2028 the Year of International Law were also considered. In the context of the regional agenda, the parties discussed measures to prevent humanitarian crises and organisational issues relating to cooperation, including the development of a joint action plan for the current period.
Turkmen-Japanese cooperation was discussed at a round-table meeting in Japan
18.03.2026On 18 March 2026, Chiba University hosted a round-table discussion to mark the theme of the year: ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’. The event was organised by the Embassy of Turkmenistan and the university’s management, according to the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The discussion was attended by Chiba University President Koutaro Yokote, Turkmenistan’s Ambassador to Japan A. Bayramov, the Dean of the Graduate Medical University of Japan, Director of the Institute of Medical Research, M.Takashi, Professor of the University of Tokyo, Honorary Professor of the Tokyo Institute of Science and Technology, Chairman of the Turkmen-Japanese Association for Scientific and Technical Cooperation, H.Koinuma, as well as university lecturers. The participants discussed the significance of the 2026 motto, Turkmenistan’s achievements and the cultural value of Ahal-Teke horses. The country’s work on studying and promoting them on the international stage was highlighted. In his address, the Ambassador of Turkmenistan outlined the priorities of foreign policy, the state’s youth policy, the initiatives of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, as well as preparations for the 35th anniversary of the country’s independence. The parties discussed prospects for cooperation in medicine, healthcare and information technology. The Ambassador invited the university’s leadership to visit Turkmenistan and take part in the medical cluster project in Arkadag. Following the round table, the participants visited the Research Institute of Disaster Medicine and the Inohana Campus, where they were briefed on their activities.
The Turkmen agricultural holding is ready to collaborate on international projects
18.03.2026At the plenary session of ‘IFT 2026’, Yhlas Hudaynazarov, Director of ‘Miwe’ OJSC, presented the company’s achievements as one of Central Asia’s leading agro-industrial enterprises. The holding company manages a land portfolio of 8,825 hectares and is actively implementing high-tech solutions, reports IIC. Particular attention was paid to the irrigation system utilising natural elevation differences, which allows fields to be irrigated by gravity and reduces energy costs. ‘Miwe’ was the first company in Turkmenistan to receive the international GLOBAL G.A.P. certificate for almond cultivation, opening up access to markets in Europe, the UAE and China. In the protected cultivation segment, the company operates 65 hectares of banana greenhouses equipped with automated systems from Germany and Spain, which boosts yields and conserves resources. The holding company is actively developing processing under the ‘Erem’ brand. Fruit freeze-drying technology has been introduced, preserving up to 98% of vitamins without preservatives. The products have already received high praise at international exhibitions, including ‘Gulfood 2026’ in Dubai. The company demonstrates the readiness of Turkmenistan’s private sector to participate in global food security chains, as confirmed by experience at international summits in the US and UN forums. ‘Miwe’ invites investors to participate in joint projects. Among the priorities are the construction of industrial processing plants, the introduction of AI-based digital agronomy, and the development of cross-border logistics. The aim of these initiatives is to create an agro-hub for the direct supply of high-quality Turkmen products to global markets.
Turkmenistan's 3x3 basketball teams are training in Manila
18.03.2026Turkmenistan’s national 3x3 basketball teams have begun a crucial phase of their preparations for the international season. The men’s and women’s teams have arrived in Manila, the capital of the Philippines, for a training camp. This was reported by IIC. The choice of the Philippines is due to the high level of basketball development in the region and the need to adapt to the intense pace of play ahead of important competitions. The training camp will run from 17 to 31 March. Twenty of the country’s leading athletes are taking part — ten representatives each from the men’s and women’s teams. The delegation is led by Myahrijemal Jumageldiyeva. Training is being provided by the men’s national team head coach Rustam Bagshiyev and the women’s team coach Maksim Otbozin. The programme includes work on physical fitness and tactical schemes for the 3x3 format. The main aim of the camp is to prepare for the 3x3 Asian Basketball Cup in Singapore. The intensive training sessions will help to hone the players’ teamwork and boost their confidence in competition. Participation in overseas training camps reflects Turkmenistan’s desire to strengthen its position in the Asian basketball rankings and compete successfully against the continent’s strongest teams.
Turkmenistan and Central Asian countries discuss traditions and international cooperation
18.03.2026On 18 March 2026, a conference dedicated to the region’s cultural heritage and the Nowruz festival was held at the Secretariat of the ‘Korea–Central Asia’ Cooperation Forum. The event was attended by diplomats, representatives of the academic community, the tourism sector, the media and cultural organisations, according to IIC. The conference served as a platform for exchanging views and fostering intercultural dialogue. Discussions centred on the significance of traditions in the modern world and the prospects for cooperation between Central Asian countries and the Republic of Korea. Particular attention was drawn to the speech by Begench Durdyev, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan. He emphasised the importance of Nowruz in the life of the country, mentioned the mass celebrations in the ‘Nowruz Valley’ and recalled the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s independence. The official motto for 2026, reflecting national values, was also presented. As part of the conference, an exhibition was organised featuring books by the President of Turkmenistan and the National Leader of the Turkmen people, as well as items showcasing the country’s cultural heritage. The event concluded with a tasting of traditional Turkmen delicacies. Participants noted the high standard of organisation and emphasised the importance of such meetings for strengthening friendship and cultural ties.
Atagulyev: The private sector’s share of Turkmenistan’s GDP continues to grow
18.03.2026The private sector’s share of Turkmenistan’s GDP is set to reach 72.9% by the end of 2026. This was announced by Nokerguly Atagulyev, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers, at the International Forum ‘Investing in the Future of Turkmenistan’ (‘IFT 2026’), reports Turkmenportal. According to him, this growth is ensured by state support for entrepreneurship, which has been implemented in the country over recent years. In 2026, the total volume of investment in the economy will exceed 41 billion manats. Around 70% of the funds — more than 28.2 billion manats — will be directed towards the creation of production facilities. The private sector will account for 32% of the investment, or around 13.2 billion manats. The forum coincides with the 18th anniversary of the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs of Turkmenistan, which brings together over 29,000 members. Since the organisation was established, over 422,000 jobs have been created. Currently, 155 projects are being implemented as part of the Presidential Programme for Socio-Economic Development for 2022–2028. By the end of 2025, the country’s GDP had grown by 6.3%. A total of 116 industrial and socio-cultural facilities were commissioned. Atagulyev also highlighted the key factors driving investment attractiveness: political stability, the raw materials base, competitive energy prices and the development of investment legislation. He called on foreign partners to expand cooperation.
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