News
The President of Turkmenistan has begun a state visit to the Republic of Korea
15.09.2026On 14 September, the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, departed on a state visit to the Republic of Korea, where he will also take part in the first ‘Central Asia–Republic of Korea’ Summit. This was reported by the news agency TDH. Before his departure, the Head of Turkmenistan arrived at the capital’s international airport. Serdar Berdimuhamedov was seen off at the airport by officials. Turkmenistan and the Republic of Korea have maintained diplomatic relations since 1992. Cooperation is developing on the basis of a strategic partnership and covers the trade and economic, transport, educational, cultural and humanitarian, and environmental sectors. Joint projects with South Korean companies in the oil and gas, and petrochemical sectors play an important role. Cooperation is developing in the fields of transport and logistics, education, science and ‘green’ technologies. Regional cooperation takes place within the framework of the ‘Central Asia–Republic of Korea’ Forum, established in 2007. In 2023, Turkmenistan chaired the 16th meeting of the Forum in Ashgabat. A few hours later, the presidential airliner arrived at the airport to receive high-ranking guests in Seoul. The national flags of Turkmenistan and the Republic of Korea were raised on the flagpoles. Members of the Honour Guard lined up at the aircraft steps, and a salute was fired in honour of the distinguished guest’s arrival. The President of Turkmenistan was met at the airport by officials from the Republic of Korea and Turkmenistan. Serdar Berdimuhamedov’s state visit to the Republic of Korea is continuing.
A scientist from Turkmenistan has been awarded the Vernadsky Gold Medal
15.09.2026Gapurjan Hamrayev, Head of the Department of Hydrometeorology at the Magtymguly Turkmen State University, has been awarded the V.I. Vernadsky Gold Medal. The decision was taken by the Expert Council of the Academy of Continuing Education of the Russian Federation, according to AsmanNews, citing the newspaper ‘Neutral Turkmenistan’. The award was granted for his contribution to the development of physical geography and the preservation of professional traditions. Hamrayev researches the deserts of Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan, focusing on the protection of engineering structures from sand drifts and the conservation of desert ecosystems. The scientist takes part in expeditions to the Karakum Desert and teaches physical geography, geoecology, space-based methods in meteorology, and the hydrometeorological aspects of environmental protection. Since 2012, Hamrayev has been a member of the Higher Professional Attestation Committee of the Academy of Sciences of Turkmenistan. Since 2023, he has been a doctoral student at the National Institute of Deserts, Flora and Fauna. Previously, Hamrayev’s scientific work in the field of sand transport modelling and phytoremediation was recognised with awards and diplomas from Lomonosov Moscow State University and the Russian Academy of Natural Sciences.
Turkmen experts took part in environmental training courses in China
15.09.2026A delegation from the National Institute of Deserts, Flora and Fauna and the Ministry of Environmental Protection of Turkmenistan took part in specialist training courses in Inchuan, China. This was reported by IIC of Turkmenistan. The event was attended by representatives from Central Asian countries and China. They exchanged experiences in the fields of reforestation, the rational use of water resources and combating sandstorms. During the working meetings, they discussed environmental problems in arid regions and the prospects for implementing joint projects. Particular attention was paid to the establishment of the ‘China–Central Asia’ Cooperation Centre for Combating Desertification. The Chinese side also supported Turkmenistan’s proposal to establish a Regional Centre for Combating Desertification under the auspices of the UN.
Athletes from Turkmenistan won 11 medals at the Central Asian Championships
15.09.2026Athletes from the Turkmenistan national athletics team won 11 medals – 2 gold, 7 silver and 2 bronze – at the 3rd Central Asian Open Championships, which took place in Tashkent. The medals were won in short- and middle-distance running, relays, the hammer throw and the shot put. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. At the end of the tournament, the Uzbekistan national team took first place in the overall standings, Kazakhstan came second and Turkmenistan third. More than 500 athletes from nine countries – Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Singapore, Thailand, Saudi Arabia and Georgia – took part in the competition. The Turkmenistan national team was represented by 12 athletes from various age groups. Enejan Esedova won the gold medal in the 400-metre race with a time of 54.93 seconds, adding to this a silver in the 4×100-metre and mixed 4×400-metre relays. Another gold for the team was secured by Mergen Mamedov, a Merited Master of Sport, who threw the hammer 70.90 metres. Gurbannazar Kakajayev won the silver medal in the shot put (15.79 metres). Valentina Meredova, who represented her country at the Olympic Games in Beijing (2008) and Paris (2024), won bronze in the 100-metre race and silver in the mixed 4×100-metre relay. Her protégés – Gurban Orazov and Aysha Charyeva – also made it onto the podium in the relay events.
The Mufti of Turkmenistan addressed a meeting of the OTS in Baku
15.09.2026The Mufti of Turkmenistan, Rahman Gurbanmyradov, took part in the 7th Meeting of the Council of Heads of Muslim Religious Boards of the Organisation of Turkic States (OTS), which took place on 14 September in Baku. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. In his address, he emphasised that strong fraternal ties have developed between the peoples of the Turkic world throughout history, with roots in their shared history of cities, religious values, culture, customs and linguistic affinity. According to him, one of the main objectives is to further bring together the religious leaders of the Turkic peoples, strengthen mutual ties and cooperation, and jointly address pressing issues. The Mufti expressed his confidence that the meeting would benefit the Turkic peoples.
A delegation from Turkmenistan is taking part in the ‘One Health’ conference in Bishkek
14.09.2026The “One Health – 2026” Regional Conference opened in Bishkek on 14 September. More than 150 representatives of government bodies, international organisations and the expert community from five Central Asian countries, including Turkmenistan, are taking part, according to the news website Turkmenportal. Delegates are discussing ways to strengthen regional cooperation in the prevention of zoonotic diseases, pandemic preparedness, epidemiological and veterinary surveillance, as well as collaboration between the health, agriculture and environmental sectors. The event was organised by the Government of the Kyrgyz Republic, the Regional Environmental Centre for Central Asia (CAREC) and the World Bank, with the support of the Pandemic Fund and the Quadripartite Secretariat for One Health — FAO, WHO, WOAH and UNEP. The high-level plenary session was moderated by Zharkynbek Kasymbekov, Director of the National Institute of Public Health under the Ministry of Health of the Kyrgyz Republic. The session featured a presentation on the Kyrgyz component of the ‘One Health’ programme, which provides for funding of US$30 million in the form of a loan and US$1.79 million in the form of a grant. The funds are intended to strengthen governance in this sector, develop human resource capacity and improve systems for prevention, detection and response to threats, including laboratory networks and epidemiological surveillance. The World Bank’s Regional Director for Central Asia, Najy Benhassine, noted that the Bank provides financial and technical support to countries in the region, helping to strengthen national systems and foster collaboration on preventing cross-border infectious disease threats. Batyr Mammedov, Executive Director of CAREC, emphasised that the regional initiative is moving from the development of common approaches to practical implementation, and highlighted the role of the ‘One Health’ Regional Secretariat, based at CAREC, in coordinating actions between countries. During the conference, representatives from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan are discussing the progress of national programmes and priorities for further cooperation.
Trade unions in Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan are strengthening their cooperation
14.09.2026On 11 September, a meeting took place in Astana between the leaders of trade union federations from Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. Oguljennet Berdiliyeva, Chairwoman of the National Trade Union Centre of Turkmenistan, held negotiations with Satybaldy Dauletalin, Chairman of the Federation of Trade Unions of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The parties discussed the protection of workers’ labour and socio-economic rights, social partnership, health and safety at work, trade union education and the exchange of experience. Following the negotiations, a Memorandum of Understanding and Cooperation was signed. The document provides for the expansion of professional contacts and the implementation of joint initiatives. As part of the visit, an international round-table discussion entitled ‘Strengthening social dialogue and the role of trade unions in ensuring decent work: the experience of Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan’ was also held, attended by representatives of trade unions from both countries and the International Labour Organisation. Particular attention was paid to regional cooperation. The parties noted the significance of the International Forum of Trade Union Presidents from Central Asian Countries and Azerbaijan, which is due to take place in Ashgabat in November 2026.
The transport potential of the CIS countries was discussed in Ashgabat
14.09.2026During his speech at the 111th meeting of the CIS Economic Council, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan H. Geldimyradov focused on the transport potential of the Commonwealth countries, according to the ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’ news agency. According to the Deputy Prime Minister, the geographical location of the CIS states creates opportunities for the development of sustainable routes between Europe and Asia. The ‘North–South’ and ‘East–West’ international transport corridors were cited as priority areas. The role of the Caspian region in the international transport and logistics system was highlighted separately. Turkmenistan is keen to make effective use of the Caspian Sea’s transit potential on the basis of mutually beneficial cooperation. As part of its chairmanship, Turkmenistan proposed declaring 2029 the Year of Transport Connectivity. The initiative is aimed at developing transport infrastructure and international routes, digitising transport, expanding intermodal connections, enhancing transport security and removing infrastructural and administrative barriers. H. Geldimyradov noted that the thematic year should serve as a practical platform for implementing specific projects in the field of transport cooperation between the Commonwealth countries.
Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov received a letter of thanks from Marian Weltevreden
14.09.2026Marian Weltevreden, Head of the European Ahal-Teke Horse Association, expressed her gratitude to the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan,Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, for his support and personal involvement in organising the World Equestrian Championships and the Ahal-Teke Beauty Contest in the Kingdom of the Netherlands. This was reported by the news agency TDH. The letter notes that the competitions and accompanying international events took place at the Peelbergen Equestrian Complex and brought together owners and breeders of Ahal-Teke horses, experts, equestrian industry specialists and representatives from various countries. According to Marian Weltevreden, the event attracted interest from both the professional community and the general public. Participants and guests praised the high standard of organisation and the programme’s content. The letter paid particular attention to the international conference and expert discussions dedicated to the conservation, breeding and promotion of the Ahal-Teke breed. The cultural programme introduced guests to the traditions, art and music of Turkmenistan. The Association’s Chair emphasised Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov’s contribution to the organisation of the event and to the preservation and promotion of the Ahal-Teke breed. Marian Weltevreden also welcomed the initiative to hold the next championship in five years’ time and expressed her hope for the further development of cooperation in the field of Ahal-Teke horse breeding.
Turkmenistan and Saudi Arabia discussed cooperation in the religious sphere
14.09.2026On 12 September, the Turkmen delegation met with Dr. Salem bin Hajj Al-Khamri, Head of the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance for the Mecca region in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The parties discussed Saudi Arabia’s experience in training Islamic scholars, as well as the management of mosques and educational institutions. The meeting took place as part of a working visit to Saudi Arabia by Yalkap Hojaguliyev, Chairman and Chief Imam of the religious organisation ‘Arkadagyň Ruhy metjidi’. Earlier in the trip, meetings were held with the President of the Islamic University of Medina, Dr Saleh bin Ali Al-Aqla, following which the parties agreed to sign a Memorandum of Understanding, and with the Head of the Institute attached to the Prophet’s Mosque, Dr Salman bin Joudallah Al-Fakih — with whom issues relating to the exchange of expertise in the field of Islamic studies and academic programmes were discussed.
A meeting on the implementation of the UN programme for the Aral Sea was held in ‘Awaza’
14.09.2026The second consultative meeting of Central Asian countries on the development of a mechanism for implementing the United Nations Special Programme for the Aral Sea Basin (UN SPAS) and a regional seminar on water diplomacy took place in the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone from 11 to 12 September 2026. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The events were organised by the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan, the Ministry of Environmental Protection of Turkmenistan and the State Committee for Water Resources of Turkmenistan, with the support of the UNDP/GEF project and in collaboration with the Blue Peace Central Asia initiative. The meetings were attended by representatives of relevant ministries and agencies from Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea, UNDP, the United Nations Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia (UNRCCA), as well as international and regional organisations. Participants discussed the further development of regional cooperation in the Aral Sea basin and the priorities of the Central Asian countries within the framework of the UN Special Programme. The delegations presented their positions on further cooperation and possible directions for the development of UN SPAS. Following the meeting, a Final Summary of the participating countries was adopted. The document sets out practical steps regarding the format, legal basis, operational mechanisms and funding of the UN Special Programme for the Aral Sea Basin.
Turkmenistan’s cement works will ensure uninterrupted production
14.09.2026On 11 September, at a meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers B. Annamammedov reported on the activities of the Ministry of Industry and Construction. This was reported by the news agency TDH. Measures are being taken in the country to ensure that cement works operate at full capacity. Enterprises must supply construction sites, economic sectors and the population with high-quality cement products. Cooperation with foreign companies is also being developed. The Deputy Prime Minister presented a draft of the relevant resolution to the President of Turkmenistan. Having heard the report, the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, signed the document aimed at ensuring the uninterrupted operation of the ‘Bäherden’, ‘Balkan’ and ‘Lebap’ cement plants, and instructed the Deputy Prime Minister to carry out the necessary work.
Read also
Advertising
Read us in Zen
