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A film about Magtymguly Pyragy's childhood, ‘Arzyman’, is being prepared for release
30.01.2026Turkmenistan is completing work on the feature film ‘Arzyman’, dedicated to the childhood of Magtymguly Pyragy. The film is being shot by the ‘Mekanfilm’ studio. The author of the project is director and screenwriter Charyyar Seyidov, according to the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The film is being made against the backdrop of international interest in the poet's legacy following the celebration of his 300th anniversary in 2024. The project is not a biographical chronicle. It focuses on Magtymguly's early years, when the future poet lived in a village, herded cattle and took his first steps in creativity. To prepare for the film, the director studied archival materials and visited the Balkan velayat, the village of Gerkez, the poet's historical homeland. Filming took place in the mountains of the Lesser Balkan, in hard-to-reach locations, including natural caves. The film is titled ‘Arzyman’, which translates from Turkmen as ‘The Desired One.’ The film features a national melody of the same name. The film stars People's Artist of Turkmenistan Ovez Gelenov, Gulnabat Abdullayeva, Mekan Jumabayev and other actors. The role of Magtymguly as a child was played by schoolboy Denizhan Abdyrahmanov. The film is scheduled to be completed on 27 June, which is Culture and Art Workers' Day, as well as Magtymguly Pyragy’s Poetry Day.
The Embassy of Turkmenistan in the PRC hosted a presentation of a book on neutrality
30.01.2026On 28 January, the Embassy of Turkmenistan in the People's Republic of China hosted a presentation of the book by the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, entitled ‘Neutrality of Turkmenistan – A Bright Way of Peace and Trust’. The event was timed to coincide with the announcement of 2026 as the year of ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’ and the 30th anniversary of the country's Permanent Neutrality, according to the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The event was attended by embassy staff, the Secretary General of the Horse Breeding Association of the People's Republic of China, representatives of the Turkmen-Chinese Cultural Centre, journalists from Psearcher and Lookwe, teachers from Beijing universities and Turkmen students. The Ambassador of Turkmenistan to the PRC, Parahat Durdyev, delivered the opening remarks. He spoke about the theme of 2026 and presented the main provisions of the book by the Head of State. The participants noted the scientific, political and practical significance of the publication, which examines the historical foundations of Turkmenistan's neutrality and its role in international law and world politics. In conclusion, Wei Huakai, a specialist at the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences and Inner Mongolia University, received a certificate of membership in the International Association of Turkmen Alabay dogs.
Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan strengthen cultural and scientific cooperation
30.01.2026Azerbaijan's Ambassador to Turkmenistan Gismet Gozalov met with Davut Orazsahedov, Director of the Magtymguly Institute of Language, Literature and National Manuscripts of the Academy of Sciences of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the Orient news agency. The parties emphasised that relations between the countries had reached a new level in 2025 due to the political support of the leadership. They noted the intensification of mutual visits and high-level contacts, as well as the expansion of cultural and humanitarian cooperation within the framework of the joint inter-governmental commission. Particular attention was paid to science and education as key areas of bilateral cooperation. The importance of joint research on the heritage of the poet Magtymguly Pyragy, translations of his works into Azerbaijani, the work of the Centre for Turkmen Literature in Azerbaijan and the presentation of the collection ‘Fell in Love’ in Ashgabat were noted. Joint scientific programmes, conferences, exchanges of young scientists and publications were discussed, as well as cooperation between the Institute of Manuscripts named after Muhammad Fuzuli of Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences and the Turkmen institute. In the future, the parties plan to develop projects within the framework of UNESCO, TURKSOY, the Turkic Culture and Heritage Foundation and the Turkic Academy.
Turkmenistan and Germany outline prospects for business partnership
30.01.2026The Consulate of Turkmenistan in Frankfurt am Main held negotiations on expanding economic cooperation with Germany. This was reported by IIC. The Consul of Turkmenistan in Germany discussed with Andreas Jahn, Chairman of the German-Turkmen Forum and Executive Director of the German Federal Association of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (BVMW), the strengthening of ties between the private sectors of the two countries and the development of economic diplomacy. The dialogue was a continuation of the Days of Turkmenistan's Economy in Germany and focused on practical steps, primarily the organisation of mutual business missions and the study of the experience of the German Mittelstand. Particular attention was paid to the introduction of management and technological solutions in Turkmen industry. The BVMW, which brings together more than 900,000 companies, is seen as a key partner in the modernisation of Turkmenistan's economy. German business, in turn, sees the country as a promising partner in the field of processing and logistics. Specific agreements are planned to be discussed in March 2026 in Ashgabat as part of the anniversary events of the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs of Turkmenistan and the IFT 2026 investment forum, which should give the cooperation a practical and long-term character.
Approximately 200,000 citizens of Turkmenistan visited Turkey in 2025
30.01.2026In 2025, approximately 200,000 citizens of Turkmenistan visited Turkey. This was announced on 28 January at a press conference in Ashgabat by Ahmet Demirok, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkey to Turkmenistan, according to the news website Asmannews. According to information from the Turkish embassy, approximately 120,000 visas were issued to Turkmen citizens during this period. The Diplomat noted the importance of cultural cooperation in the development of bilateral relations. According to A. Demirok, there is still a high level of interest in Turkish culture in Turkmenistan, which contributes to the strengthening of humanitarian ties between the two countries. In addition, there are plans to open a Turkish cultural centre named after Yunus Emre in Ashgabat in 2026. Similar centres are already operating in many countries around the world.
A new UNICEF country programme has been launched in Turkmenistan
30.01.2026UNICEF, in collaboration with the government of Turkmenistan, has officially launched a Country Programme for 2026–2030 aimed at ensuring the health, education, protection and well-being of every child. This was reported by the IIC. The programme was presented with the participation of representatives of state bodies, civil society, international partners and children. The new programme is based on national development priorities, the National Action Plan for Realisation of Children's Rights and the Sustainable Development Goals. Its key areas are health and nutrition for mothers and children, inclusive and quality education, protection of children from violence, development of data-driven social policy, and improving climate resilience and risk preparedness. The event also summarised the results of the 2021–2025 Programme. The results include high levels of child immunisation (over 95%), improved nutrition through flour fortification, expanded early development services, support for families and children with disabilities, the development of alternative forms of care, and the implementation of climate initiatives, including the ‘Green School’ project. The 2026-2030 Programme will be implemented under the leadership of the government of Turkmenistan with a focus on reducing inequality, scaling up effective solutions and strengthening national systems with the support of UNICEF and partners.
Trade between Turkmenistan and Turkey amounted to $2 billion
29.01.2026The volume of trade between Turkmenistan and Turkey in January–November 2025 approached $2 billion. This was announced on 28 January by Ahmet Demirok, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkey to Turkmenistan, according to the news website Asmannews. According to the Diplomat, bilateral relations are consistently developing in all areas on the principles of mutual benefit, which has a positive impact on trade and economic cooperation. ‘Turkey remains one of Turkmenistan's largest trading partners,’ Demirok said. The Diplomat stressed that the existing potential for cooperation significantly exceeds current indicators. In this regard, the parties intend to increase trade volumes, and reaching the level of $5 billion is considered a realistic goal. The Ambassador also expressed confidence that upcoming exhibitions and joint economic events will provide an additional impetus for expanding bilateral cooperation.
Turkey will present its export products at an exhibition in Ashgabat
29.01.2026From 10 to 12 February 2026, Ashgabat will host the 12th specialised exhibition of Turkish export products. About 100 companies and industry associations from Turkey will take part in the event. This was reported by AsmanNews. Turkish Minister of Trade Omer Bolat is expected to attend the opening with an official delegation. The exhibition will serve as a platform for presenting Turkish goods and technologies. Turkmen entrepreneurs and representatives of state structures will be able to discuss possible joint projects. During his visit, Omer Bolat will hold meetings dedicated to the development of trade and economic cooperation between Turkmenistan and Turkey.
A briefing on the updated ‘Uzbekistan – 2030’ Strategy was held in Ashgabat
29.01.2026On 28 January, the Embassy of the Republic of Uzbekistan in Turkmenistan held a briefing on the update of the ‘Uzbekistan – 2030’ Strategy. Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ravshanbek Alimov presented to media representatives the key provisions of the document, which defines the long-term development priorities of Uzbekistan, according to the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The strategy includes 100 goals in five areas. They cover social development, economic growth, protection of natural resources and ensuring the rule of law. A separate section is devoted to creating conditions for the self-realisation of citizens and continuing a foreign policy based on the principle of a ‘safe and peaceful state’. The briefing also emphasised the importance of regional cooperation. In the context of the changing geopolitical situation, Central Asia is seen as a connecting space between East and West. Particular emphasis is placed on developing relations with Turkmenistan. It was noted that with the support of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, bilateral cooperation has reached the level of a strategic partnership. Uzbekistan confirmed its readiness to participate in joint projects, including the development of transport and transit corridors and the expansion of trade, economic and humanitarian ties.
Turkmen students participate in the ‘Feel Korea! with KNU’ programme in Korea
29.01.2026A Korean language teacher at the Dovletmammet Azadi Turkmen National Institute of World Languages, A. Seyitberdiyeva, and students majoring in ‘Pedagogical Education’ are participating in a short-term programme called ‘Feel Korea! with KNU’. This information was reported by Turkmenportal. The programme is taking place in Seoul and Chuncheon and is organised by Kangwon National University. The trip lasts from 19 January to 2 February and is being held as part of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Dovletmammet Azadi Turkmen National Institute of World Languages and Kangwon National University. Participants are taking practical classes in the Korean language. The main focus is on developing oral and written communication skills, as well as everyday communication. As part of the programme, the delegation also visited the national museums of Chuncheon and Seoul, where they learned about the cultural and historical heritage of the Republic of Korea.
The city of Arkadag celebrated the international recognition of the ‘Galkynysh’ group
29.01.2026The ‘Galkynysh’ National Equestrian Games Group of the Ahal-Teke Equestrian Complex of the President of Turkmenistan has been awarded international certificates from the World Circus Federation and the European Circus Association. The awards were presented at the 48th International Circus Festival in Monte Carlo (Principality of Monaco). This was reported by the state news agency TDH. In Turkmenistan, a solemn event was held in the city of Arkadag to mark the occasion. Riders from the ‘Galkynysh’ group took part in a procession along Geokdepe and Akhan avenues on Ahal-Teke horses and in a phaeton. The column proceeded to the State Equestrian Circus named after Gorogly. At the ‘Taýçanak’ monument, the participants continued their route along Ahal-Teke Atlary, Akhan and Aba Annayev avenues. The procession was accompanied by musical performances. Along the way, it was greeted by residents and students with flags. An exhibition was organised in the circus foyer. The exhibition featured works of applied art, photographs, elements of horse harness, as well as prizes and awards from the ‘Galkynysh’ group. The official part took place in the auditorium. International certificates were placed on the stage. The participants of the event gave their congratulations. Urs Pilz, Artistic Director and Vice-President of the International Circus Festival, addressed the audience via video link. He noted the contribution of the ‘Galkynysh’ group and thanked them for participating in the festival in Monte Carlo. The programme concluded with a performance by the ‘Galkynysh’ National Equestrian Games Group in the circus arena. At the end of the event, an appeal was made to President Serdar Berdimuhamedov.
Turkmenistan and Morocco held political consultations in Ashgabat
29.01.2026On 28 January, political consultations between the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan and the Kingdom of Morocco took place in Ashgabat. The negotiations were held at the level of heads of structural divisions, according to the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The Turkmen side was represented by the Head of the Middle East and Africa Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The Moroccan delegation was led by Omar Kadiri, Director for Asia and Oceania at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates. The parties discussed bilateral cooperation in the political-diplomatic, trade-economic and cultural-humanitarian spheres. Particular attention was paid to cooperation within international and regional organisations, including the UN. The practice of mutual support for initiatives was noted. Interest in the development of trade and economic ties was confirmed. The oil and gas, chemical and textile industries, agriculture and tourism were named among the priorities. The possibility of establishing a Joint Commission on Economic Cooperation was considered. The expediency of holding meetings of relevant ministries and departments with the participation of business representatives was also noted. The parties emphasised the importance of the existing legal framework and agreed to intensify work on new bilateral documents in the areas of foreign policy, transport, education and science.
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