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A new Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Turkmenistan has been appointed
16.03.2026The Foreign Affairs Ministry of the Republic of Korea has announced the appointment of Lee Won-jae as the new Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Turkmenistan. The Diplomat, who has 30 years of experience, will contribute to the development of bilateral relations, including the implementation of joint industrial and infrastructure projects between Seoul and Ashgabat, according to the Orient news agency. Lee Won-jae previously headed the diplomatic mission in Kyrgyzstan, which provided him with practical experience of working in Central Asia. At the South Korean Foreign Affairs Ministry, he also headed the economic cooperation department, which is significant given the expansion of South Korean companies’ activities in Turkmenistan’s energy and chemical sectors. His professional background also includes security matters: the Diplomat worked as a coordinator at the South Korean Ministry of Defence and served in diplomatic missions in Iran and Russia. Prior to his appointment in Ashgabat, he taught at the National Diplomatic Academy of Korea.
Turkmenistan shared its experience in regulating migration processes
16.03.2026A two-day international seminar on labour migration was held in Brussels as part of the Prague Process. The event was attended by representatives of relevant government agencies, international organisations and European Union bodies, including the European Commission and the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD). This was reported by the press service of the Turkmenistan diplomatic mission in Brussels. Representatives of the State Migration Service of Turkmenistan took part in the seminar. During thematic sessions and round-table discussions, Turkmen specialists presented their country’s experience in regulating migration processes, paying particular attention to the introduction of innovative approaches and the development of digital solutions in the field of migration management. Participants were also provided with information on the modernisation of Turkmenistan’s migration infrastructure, including the expansion of e-services, the strengthening of inter-agency cooperation and the improvement of data-sharing mechanisms between government agencies. It was noted that these measures are aimed at increasing the transparency of procedures, the quality of public services and the efficiency of migration management. During the discussions, experts and representatives of the participating countries gave a positive assessment of the level of institutional development of Turkmenistan’s migration system. It was emphasised that the national system demonstrates a high level of internal coordination, and that effective information exchange between relevant departments facilitates a timely response to contemporary migration challenges. The seminar also served as a platform for professional dialogue on the development of legal channels for labour mobility, the expansion of international cooperation and the improvement of mechanisms for the recognition of qualifications. Participants discussed promising areas for further cooperation and exchanged best practices in the field of migration management.
Turkmenistan has reaffirmed its commitment to the international fight against drug trafficking
16.03.2026On 9 March 2026, a delegation from Turkmenistan, led by the country’s Deputy Minister of the Internal Affairs, took part in the 69th session of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND), which was held at the United Nations Office in Vienna. This was reported by the press service of the diplomatic mission. The event was attended by representatives of member states, international organisations and the expert community. Participants discussed issues relating to combating illicit drug trafficking, strengthening international cooperation and developing effective strategies to combat drug-related crime and drug abuse. During the meeting, the Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs of Turkmenistan reaffirmed the country’s commitment to international cooperation in the fight against illicit drug trafficking and organised crime. He highlighted the measures being taken to strengthen border security, enhance the capacity of law enforcement agencies, and implement national programmes on drug prevention and public safety. It was also emphasised that Turkmenistan is actively participating in regional and international initiatives aimed at countering illicit drug trafficking and developing multilateral cooperation. On the sidelines of the session, a meeting was held with Oliver Stolpe, the regional representative of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime for Afghanistan, Central Asia, Iran and Pakistan. The parties discussed current issues of cooperation and prospects for further strengthening joint efforts in the fight against illicit drug trafficking, as well as ways to enhance regional coordination. In addition, the Turkmenistan delegation took part in parallel events, where it presented national experience and exchanged best practices with international partners, as well as familiarised itself with new approaches to the development of global anti-drug policy.
Turkmenistan and Russia discussed the development of their strategic partnership
16.03.2026On 13 March, a meeting took place in Moscow between Esen Aydogdyev, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to the Russian Federation, who is concluding his diplomatic mission, and Mikhail Galuzin, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of Russia. This was reported by the press service of the diplomatic mission. During the meeting, the parties exchanged views on key aspects of the deepened strategic partnership between Turkmenistan and the Russian Federation. At the conclusion of the meeting, the Ambassador expressed his gratitude to the leadership of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the support provided during his diplomatic mission in Moscow. In turn, Mikhail Galuzin thanked Esen Aydogdyev for his contribution to the development of Turkmen-Russian relations and wished him success in his new post.
Universities in Turkmenistan and the UK are expanding their academic cooperation
16.03.2026As part of a working visit, a delegation from the International University for the Humanities and Development held a meeting with the leadership of the University of Westminster, where they discussed prospects for bilateral cooperation. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan. The university rectors, Professors Andrew Lynn and Dibyesh Anand, took part in the negotiations. Professor Andrew Lynn presented the university’s research and educational activities and noted that he had previously visited Ashgabat on numerous occasions to participate in academic conferences and educational programmes. In particular, he highlighted cooperation with universities in the region as part of the British Council’s ‘Accelerating English Language Learning in Central Asia’ programme. The visit also included a hybrid meeting with professors and lecturers from the University of Westminster on the ‘Academic English’ course, during which the parties exchanged experiences on the application of modern English language teaching methods. In addition, an international conference marking the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s independence was held in the university’s conference hall. The event was attended by the management, lecturers, research staff and students of the University of Westminster, as well as a delegation from the International University for the Humanities and Development. The university’s rector, M. Kuliyeva, gave a presentation on Turkmenistan’s foreign policy and diplomacy, based on the principles of permanent neutrality. A. Chariyev, a lecturer in the Department of International Relations, spoke about the country’s historical development, its modern achievements and international cooperation in the field of education. G. Seyilbayeva, a senior lecturer at the Department of Management, presented information on the development of foreign language teaching and the university’s educational activities. Conference participants noted the significance of Turkmenistan’s foreign policy, aimed at strengthening Peace and Trust and international cooperation, and also gave a positive assessment of the reforms being carried out in the country’s education system.
Scientists and cultural figures are studying the folk traditions of Turkmenistan
16.03.2026The Ministry of Culture of Turkmenistan has established a research and creative group to carry out ethnographic research in the country’s regions. The group comprises cultural figures, academics, journalists and students. This is reported on the ministry’s website. The research work began in the Lebap velayat. From 10 to 12 March, members of the expedition visited a number of etraps and towns in the region, where they gathered material on folk decorative and applied arts, folklore and musical traditions, as well as on the process of making national musical instruments — the dutar and the tuyduk. In addition, the group members learnt about the distinctive features of preparing national dishes, family and wedding customs, as well as the traditions of making national clothing. During the trip, the researchers also studied the national practice of breeding Alabay dogs.
Ashgabat is preparing for the ‘White City Ashgabat – 2026’ international forum
16.03.2026Preparations are underway in Ashgabat for the 25th Multidisciplinary International Exhibition and Conference ‘White City Ashgabat – 2026’ (WCA 2026), which will take place on 24–25 May. The forum is traditionally timed to coincide with Ashgabat City Day and is dedicated to issues relating to the development of the modern urban environment. This was reported by the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. In 2026, the event will be held under the motto ‘Architecture. Innovation. Sustainable Development’. It is expected that the forum will address issues such as the modernisation of urban infrastructure, the introduction of innovative technologies, the development of environmentally sustainable urban systems, and the implementation of the “smart city” concept. The organisers note that over the years, the “White City Ashgabat” forum has become an international platform for discussing projects in the fields of construction, architecture and infrastructure development. In 2025, the event was attended by over 550 delegates from more than 30 countries, representing government bodies, international organisations and leading companies. A number of agreements were signed during last year’s forum. In particular, the Ashgabat City Administration signed a contract with the Chinese company ‘Zoomlion Environmental Industry Co. Ltd.’ for the supply of 960 units of municipal equipment. In addition, the state concern ‘Türkmenhimiýa’ and the South Korean company ‘Daewoo Engineering & Construction’ signed a contract for the construction of a mineral fertiliser production complex at the chemical plant in Turkmenabat. It is expected that the upcoming conference will focus particularly on the implementation of Ashgabat’s development strategy up to 2045, including the introduction of digital urban management systems, the modernisation of transport and municipal infrastructure, and the construction of energy-efficient buildings. Topics for discussion will also include the development of the city of Arkadag, regarded as a modern example of the implementation of innovative urban planning solutions and digital technologies for managing urban infrastructure. The organisers note that the upcoming forum will serve as a platform for presenting investment projects and technological solutions in the fields of construction, industry, energy and the production of building materials.
A delegation from a Turkmen university met with the leadership of the University of Westminster
16.03.2026During a working visit, a delegation from the International University for the Humanities and Development held a meeting with the Vice-Chancellors of the University of Westminster, Andrew Linn and Dibyesh Anand, to discuss prospects for bilateral cooperation. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan. Representatives of the university spoke about their academic and international activities, their experience working in Central Asia and their participation in educational programmes. The Turkmen delegation presented the achievements of their university and noted the productivity of the meetings with the research centres of the University of Westminster. The parties discussed the possibility of implementing exchange programmes, summer and online courses, as well as developing joint educational programmes in the ‘2+2’ and ‘1+1’ formats. Following the meeting, an agreement was reached to further explore cooperation through diplomatic channels. A hybrid meeting was also held with lecturers from the University of Westminster on the ‘Academic English’ course, during which they shared their experience of applying modern language teaching methods. As part of the visit, an international conference was held to mark the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s independence, attended by the leadership, lecturers and students of the University of Westminster and a delegation from the International University for the Humanities and Development. The Rector of the Turkmen university, M. Kuliyeva, presented a report on Turkmenistan’s foreign policy and diplomacy, based on the principle of permanent neutrality. University lecturers also delivered presentations on the country’s history and achievements, international cooperation in the field of education, and the development of foreign language teaching. Conference participants noted the peaceful nature of Turkmenistan’s foreign policy, its international initiatives and the reforms being implemented in the education system.
Turkmenistan shared its experience of modernising its customs system at a seminar in Japan
16.03.2026Representatives of the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan took part in the final regional seminar of the Central Asia and Caucasus Security Project (CCASP), which was held in Tokyo. This was reported by the agency’s press office. The event was organised by the World Customs Organisation with the support of the Japanese government. The seminar focused on combating the illicit cross-border movement of small arms, light weapons and unmanned aerial vehicles. Representatives of the customs services of Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan took part in the three-day programme. Participants reviewed the outcomes of the training activities, exchanged national experiences and familiarised themselves with modern methods of border and customs control used by the Japanese customs service. It is noted that Turkmenistan is an active participant in the CCASP project. Previously, representatives of the country took part in a regional seminar in Astana in July 2025, as well as in a bilateral training session in Baku in January 2026. During the seminar, the Turkmenistan delegation presented a report on the modernisation of the national customs system. In particular, they spoke about the work of the Control and Analytical Centre, which provides automated risk analysis and speeds up customs clearance procedures. In addition, participants were provided with information on the modernisation of the technical infrastructure at customs posts, including the introduction of inspection and screening complexes, video surveillance systems and radiation monitoring.
A rare arkhar lamb was rescued in a nature reserve in Turkmenistan
15.03.2026Staff at the Sunt-Hasardag State Nature Reserve nursed back to health an injured arkhar lamb – a rare mountain sheep listed in Turkmenistan’s Red Book. This was reported by the country’s Ministry of Environmental Protection. According to the agency, in April 2024, an arkhar lamb with a leg injury was transferred from the Environmental Protection Department of Balkan velayat to the Biodiversity Breeding Center of the reserve. The animal underwent a two-month course of treatment, after which it spent more than three months under a special care regime. During this period, the lamb was fed milk, fresh alfalfa and a balanced diet. The Ministry noted that the animal has fully recovered and adapted to human presence. In the near future, the lamb is set to be presented to the general public as part of events in the Magtymguly etrap. The arkhar is listed in the Red Book of Turkmenistan and the International Union for Conservation of Nature, as well as on the CITES list. Three subspecies inhabit the country — the Bukhara, Turkmen and Ustyurt argali — all of which are under state protection in five nature reserves. The Biodiversity Breeding Centre at the Sunt-Hasardag Nature Reserve houses seven arkhar, which produce offspring every year. To monitor the population, specialists use camera traps, which allow them to track the animals’ behaviour during the rutting and breeding seasons.
Turkmenistan has delivered a humanitarian aid shipment for children in Iran
15.03.2026In Turkmenistan, charitable and religious activities continue during the holy month of Ramadan, the IIC reports. According to the directive of Serdar Berdimuhamedov, the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship sent humanitarian aid to the Islamic Republic of Iran. The shipment included medical supplies and hygiene products intended for children. The delivery was timed to coincide with the Night of Power. It is emphasized that such initiatives reflect traditions of mutual support and good-neighborly relations between states. On the same day, in the city of Arkadag, representatives of the Council of Elders and clergy visited the construction site of a new mosque. They reviewed the progress of the religious complex, which is designed to accommodate 30,000 people. It is reported that the facility will become one of the largest religious structures in Central Asia, combining elements of national architecture with modern construction solutions. The events concluded with a sadaqah-iftar, during which participants offered prayers for the well-being of the country and its people.
A sadaqah-iftar was organised in Ashgabat to commemorate the Night of Power
15.03.2026A sadaqah-iftar ceremony was held in Ashgabat at the ‘Halk Hakydasy’ (‘People’s Memory’) memorial complex to mark the sacred Night of Power. The event was attended by the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, and President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov. This was reported by the online news resource Asmannews. The country’s mufti, imams of the velayats, representatives of the older generation, mothers and young people gathered around the communal table. Such gatherings in Turkmenistan are traditionally regarded as an important element of national culture and intergenerational continuity. After sunset, the participants of the event broke their fast. Traditional national dishes were served, and prayers were offered for the well-being of the country and in remembrance of the deceased. The evening concluded with a collective prayer, during which verses from the Qur’an and supplications were recited. Participants expressed the traditional words ‘Kabul bolsun,’ conveying their hope that the prayers and good deeds would be accepted.
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