News
Ancient Merv: an architectural reflection of Turkmen culture
17.03.2026In the early Middle Ages, the Merv oasis, known as the ‘Mother of Cities,’ became the center of a unique architectural style – fortified manor-palaces. These monuments along the Great Silk Road served not only as residences but also as administrative centers and key hubs of trade between the 5th and 9th centuries, according to the IIC. Particular attention is drawn to the Greater and Lesser Gyzgala – the largest adobe fortresses in the world, distinguished by their semi-circular walls that naturally cooled interior spaces. These two-story structures have preserved their strength for over one and a half millennia due to special additives in the mudbrick. Archaeological findings, including a bronze pendant depicting the goddess Anahita, testify to the high level of culture in the region. The Durnaly fortress performed both defensive and customs functions, while the discovery of massive ceramic vessels confirms the oasis’s status as a major agricultural exporter. Haram-Koshk, an example of private architecture from the 9th century, with its central domed hall, became a foundation for the classical architecture of Central Asia. Remains of glass vessels for incense, intricate ganch (clay gypsum) carvings, and ostraca bearing inscriptions demonstrate a high level of literacy and a developed accounting system of that time. This ancient heritage continues to influence the modern architecture of Turkmenistan. Elements of medieval design are reflected in the white-marble city of Ashgabat and the “smart” city of Arkadag, while the monuments of Mary velayat remain symbols of national memory and a source of inspiration.
Last week, 34 transactions were concluded on the Turkmenistan Stock Exchange
17.03.2026Last week, 34 transactions took place on the State Commodity and Raw Materials Exchange of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. Companies from the UAE, Turkey and Georgia purchased polypropylene and base oil produced by the State Concern ‘Türkmennebit’ in exchange for foreign currency. Foreign buyers also purchased denim products, regenerated fibre, cotton fabric and yarn, karakul wool and wheat flour. Transactions with the UAE, Turkey, Estonia and Kyrgyzstan exceeded US$9 million. On the domestic market, businesses purchased polypropylene and oil from the ‘Türkmennebit’ State Concern, technical sulphur from the ‘Türkmengaz’ State Concern, undistilled fatty acids from cotton soapstock, dyed terry cloth, silk and cotton fabrics, as well as wheat flour. The total amount amounted to over 229.4 million manats.
An exhibition marking the 18th anniversary of the UIET has opened in Ashgabat
17.03.2026An exhibition marking the 18th anniversary of the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs of Turkmenistan (UIET) opened on 17 March in Ashgabat at the building of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan. The event is attended by representatives of ministries, public organisations, the media, foreign companies and diplomatic missions, reports the news website Turkmenportal. The exhibition brings together more than 200 companies from various sectors of the economy, including the domestic private sector, and will run until 19 March, serving as a platform for showcasing business achievements and establishing business contacts. On 18 March, the International Forum ‘Investing in the Future of Turkmenistan’ will commence at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, featuring business meetings, project presentations and discussions on strategies for attracting investment and developing the private sector. The exhibition and forum highlight the contribution of entrepreneurship to the country’s economy and promote the expansion of international cooperation.
Ashgabat discusses strategy to eliminate tuberculosis by 2030
17.03.2026A seminar marking World Tuberculosis Day was held at the UN building in Ashgabat. The event was organised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) country office in Turkmenistan, according to the news website Turkmenportal. Participants discussed the progress made and opportunities to strengthen cooperation to accelerate the elimination of tuberculosis in the country and the region in line with the 2030 targets. The seminar was held in a hybrid format with the participation of WHO experts, national health specialists and international partners. The first session addressed WHO’s strategic priorities in the fight against tuberculosis and other infectious diseases in the European Region and Central Asia, including the implementation of the Action Plan to Combat Tuberculosis for 2023–2030 and the regional initiative ‘Tuberculosis-Free Central Asia’. Turkmenistan’s transition to the National Tuberculosis Control Strategy for 2026–2030 was also discussed. The second session focused on the country’s progress towards achieving regional targets for combating infectious diseases. Participants examined innovative methods for the early detection of tuberculosis, the development of new vaccines, and Turkmenistan’s experience in research into the combined treatment of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis and hepatitis C. The country’s achievements in combating hepatitis B and its contribution to the implementation of global strategies on HIV, viral hepatitis and sexually transmitted infections were highlighted separately. The third session focused on the role of international and non-governmental organisations in implementing the National Tuberculosis Control Programme for 2026–2030. Representatives from the WHO, UNDP, UNFPA and the Turkmenistan National Red Crescent Society presented current initiatives and opportunities for further partnership. In conclusion, participants discussed further steps to strengthen the fight against tuberculosis and other infectious diseases in Turkmenistan and the region. World Tuberculosis Day is observed annually on 24 March to raise awareness of the disease and mobilise efforts to end the epidemic.
Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan discussed a partnership in the field of road construction
17.03.2026The Minister of Road Transport of Turkmenistan, Hangeldi Kerimov, met with the Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Turkmenistan, Ravshanbek Alimov, to discuss issues of bilateral cooperation in the field of road construction. This was reported by the online publication ‘Business Turkmenistan’. The parties also discussed the development of transport and transit corridors between the two countries. Particular attention was paid to the introduction of modern technologies in the road sector, digital management of infrastructure projects, the design of bridges and other transport facilities, as well as the exchange of expertise. It was noted that the launch of the ‘Ashgabat–Turkmenabat’ expressway could contribute to the growth of trade and freight transport, as well as the development of international transit routes. Following the meeting, the parties expressed their readiness to expand practical cooperation, including mutual visits, expert meetings and the implementation of joint projects.
The Iranian Ambassador highlighted Turkmenistan’s role in the delivery of humanitarian aid
17.03.2026A briefing was held in Ashgabat by the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Islamic Republic of Iran, focusing on regional issues and the development of Turkmen-Iranian cooperation. This was reported by IIC. The Diplomat expressed his gratitude to the leadership of Turkmenistan for facilitating the transit of humanitarian aid. He highlighted the country’s role as a key humanitarian hub in the region. Responding to questions from journalists, the Ambassador spoke about the current situation in the region and reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to diplomatic methods for resolving emerging issues. The importance of adhering to the principles of international law was also emphasised. According to the Diplomat, Turkmenistan, pursuing a policy of permanent neutrality, plays a significant role in maintaining peace and security. He noted that cooperation in the transport, logistics and energy sectors contributes to strengthening regional stability. During the meeting, the Ambassador reaffirmed his commitment to the principles of good-neighbourliness and expressed his readiness to further develop cooperation with the media. At the conclusion of the briefing, the role of open dialogue with the press in strengthening mutual understanding between the peoples of the two countries was highlighted.
Turkmen boxers won two bronze medals at the tournament in Bangkok
17.03.2026Turkmen boxers won two bronze medals at the ‘World Boxing Futures Cup 2026’ International Tournament in Bangkok. The competition took place from 8 to 15 March, reports IIC. Ismail Orazmyradov won bronze in the under-75kg weight category, whilst Soyunaly Ovezgeldiyev secured a medal in the under-90kg category. Both athletes demonstrated a high level of preparation and tenacity in their bouts. The performance of the Turkmen boxers reflects the development of the sport in the country and the improvement in the skills of national athletes on the international stage.
Participants in the UN training course strengthened professional ties in Central Asia
17.03.2026Young staff members from the foreign ministries of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan took part in the Second UN Regional Training Course on Sustainable Development, Human Rights Protection and International Law. The training lasted five days, according to IIC. The programme was aimed at enhancing professional skills and fostering regional dialogue. Participants studied the workings of the UN system, issues of sustainable development, human rights protection and international law, as well as modern diplomatic tools. The training process included theory, practical exercises and discussions. The forum served as a platform for establishing contacts between young diplomats from neighbouring countries. It is believed that strengthening professional ties at an early stage of one’s career contributes to closer cooperation in Central Asia. Following the training, the region’s states reaffirmed their commitment to forming a cohesive diplomatic corps to promote Central Asia’s interests on the international stage.
The President of Turkmenistan highlighted the contribution of entrepreneurs to economic development
17.03.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, has sent a message to the participants of the exhibition and international forum marking the 18th anniversary of the establishment of the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs of Turkmenistan. This was reported by AsmanNews. The events are taking place as part of the celebrations marking this date and include an exhibition and the International Forum ‘Investing in the Future of Turkmenistan’. In his message, the Head of State noted that the development of the private sector remains one of the priority areas of the national economy. According to him, entrepreneurs contribute to the country’s economic growth and the implementation of state programmes. The President emphasised the importance of public-private partnerships and the involvement of business in key sectors of the economy. Turkmen entrepreneurs are participating in the development of industry, agriculture and the service sector, as well as introducing digital technologies and new production solutions. It was noted that modern enterprises are being established in the private sector, producing import-substituting and export-oriented goods. This contributes to job creation and an increase in the supply of goods on the domestic market. The address also outlined plans for further support for entrepreneurship. The ‘Programme for the Socio-Economic Development of Turkmenistan and Investments for 2026’ provides for measures to develop small and medium-sized businesses and increase the share of the non-state sector in gross domestic product to 72.9 per cent. In conclusion, the President of Turkmenistan congratulated the participants on the anniversary of the establishment of the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs of Turkmenistan and wished them success in their work.
In Turkmenistan, a public holiday has been rescheduled to mark the National Spring Festival
17.03.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, has signed a Decree on the celebration of Eid al-Fitr and the rescheduling of a public holiday. This was reported by TDH. According to the document, the national holiday of the Turkmen people — Eid al-Fitr — will be celebrated on 20 March 2026. A public holiday has also been rescheduled: 22 March is moved to 23 March 2026, a Monday. The Decree notes that the decision was taken to create conditions for the solemn celebration of Eid al-Fitr and the National Spring Holiday, as well as to ensure a comfortable rest for citizens. The document instructs all institutions, enterprises and organisations, regardless of their form of ownership, to ensure compliance with the Decree.
The Turkmenistan karate team won two bronze medals at the Krakow Cup
16.03.2026From 10 to 17 March, Krakow (Poland) hosted the Krakow Cup, an international tournament in traditional karate, which attracted over 870 athletes from 14 countries. The Turkmenistan national team won two bronze medals at the tournament, according to the IIC. Selim Myratdurdyev finished third in the adult category for athletes over 21 years of age. Medine Gaylyeva won bronze in the 12–13-year-old girls’ category. She represents the 1st Sports School of the Ashgabat Main Directorate for Physical Culture and Sport and is a Year 8 pupil at Balkanabat Secondary School No. 20. These successes confirm the high level of training of Turkmen karateka and provide valuable international experience for young athletes.
A centenarian from the Ahal velayat celebrated her 105th birthday
16.03.2026In Turkmenistan, particular attention is paid to women—the guardians of family values. The state’s care for mothers and the elderly is demonstrated through social initiatives and festive events, reports the news website Asmannews, citing the newspaper ‘Türkmenistan’. A good example is Aysoltan Hommodova from the Ahal velayat, who celebrated her 105th birthday surrounded by her large family. She emphasises that the attention from the state and society brings joy to the older generation: local authorities and community organisations regularly visit the elderly and congratulate them on important occasions. The centenarian raised eight children, and today her family numbers 40 grandchildren, 91 great-grandchildren and 32 great-great-grandchildren. Despite her age, she fondly recalls her working life in agriculture and the years of wartime hardships.
Read also
Advertising
Read us in Zen
