News
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.
The President of Turkmenistan congratulated the nation on Night of Power
15.03.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, has congratulated the nation on the arrival of the sacred Night of Power – Laylat al-Qadr. This was reported by the news agency TDH. In his address, the Head of State emphasised the special significance of this night for Muslims and noted that it embodies the values of humanism, mercy and spiritual unity. The President recalled that during the month of Ramadan, particularly on the Night of Power, the country traditionally holds prayers, organises charitable iftar meals and commemorates the deceased. During these days, wishes for peace, prosperity and the further strengthening of Turkmenistan’s independence and neutrality are also expressed. It is noted that the traditions of Night of Power reflect the principles of justice, mutual respect and compassion. In this regard, on the occasion of this sacred night, pardons are granted to convicts in the country. The Head of State declared the continuation of the course towards the development of an independent and permanently neutral Turkmenistan, emphasising the implementation of significant international projects, the expansion of cooperation with foreign partners, and attention to the preservation of national heritage and traditions. In conclusion, Serdar Berdimuhamedov wished the citizens health, prosperity and success, expressing the hope that the prayers and good deeds performed during the month of Ramadan and on the Night of Power would be accepted.
The Cultural Significance of the Nowruz Holiday and Its Role in Turkmen Society
15.03.2026The Nowruz holiday is one of the most ancient and enduring cultural traditions in human history. It symbolizes the arrival of spring, the awakening of nature, and the transition of life to a new stage. March 21 — the day of the vernal equinox — represents not only an astronomical phenomenon but also a date that for thousands of years has been perceived by many peoples as the beginning of a new year. For the Turkmen people, Nowruz is not merely a tradition or a festive celebration; it represents a manifestation of social unity, spiritual renewal, and national identity. Today, Nowruz is celebrated not only as a holiday of a particular state or nation but is also widely recognized as a cultural heritage of international significance. This demonstrates the deep historical roots of the holiday and confirms that it has not lost its relevance in the modern era. The origins of Nowruz are associated with ancient agricultural civilizations. According to scholars’ assumptions, the history of this celebration dates back more than three thousand years. The word ‘Nowruz’ originates from the Persian language and means ‘new day’. In ancient Eastern societies, the arrival of spring symbolized not only the change of seasons but also the beginning of a new economic year and a new agricultural cycle. According to historical sources, Nowruz was particularly widely celebrated in ancient Persian states as an official public holiday. During the Zoroastrian period, the arrival of spring was regarded as a symbol of the victory of light over darkness. This idea, in turn, reflected the harmony between nature and the spiritual world of humanity. In the 21st century, the international significance of Nowruz continues to strengthen. In 2009, the Nowruz holiday was included by UNESCO in the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Furthermore, in 2010, the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution A/RES/64/253, according to which March 21 was officially proclaimed the International Day of Nowruz. According to expert estimates, more than 300 million people around the world currently celebrate this holiday. This figure shows that Nowruz is recognized as a national holiday while also being regarded as a universal cultural phenomenon. In the worldview of the Turkmen people, Nowruz has traditionally been perceived as the beginning of the new year. In ancient times, harmonious coexistence between humans and nature was an essential aspect of Turkmen life. Therefore, the first days of spring were welcomed with particular joy and spiritual uplift. On the eve of Nowruz, the tradition of cleaning and tidying homes is widely practiced. This custom symbolizes both the establishment of physical order and spiritual preparation for a new stage of life. A clean home is considered a sign of welcoming the new year with good intentions. One of the main symbols of the holiday is the preparation of ‘semeni’ (a traditional Turkmen sweet dish made from sprouted wheat grains, flour, and sugar, prepared and eaten especially during the Nowruz holiday). The germination of wheat grains represents the continuity of life, abundance, and growth. ‘Semeni’ serves as a festive dish while also functioning as a cultural symbol passed down from generation to generation. During the celebration of Nowruz, national games, wrestling competitions, horse races, as well as musical and artistic performances are organized. These events are significant both as a form of entertainment and as an expression of the cultural unity of society. The participation of representatives from different generations in the festive celebrations helps strengthen the spiritual bonds between them. Another important feature of Nowruz is its unifying spiritual role in society. During the holiday, people congratulate one another, visit relatives and friends, show respect to elders, and try to forget past grievances. In this way, the celebration contributes to strengthening social harmony and fraternal relations. Nowruz is celebrated not only in Turkmenistan but across a number of countries in the Middle East, the Caucasus, and South Asia, including Iran, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkey, Afghanistan, and several other states. The diversity of Nowruz traditions in different countries demonstrates its rich cultural variety. For example, in Iran a special festive table known as ‘Haft-sin’ is prepared, where seven symbolic items associated with spring are displayed. In Central Asian countries, folk creativity and equestrian traditions form an important part of the celebration. In some countries there is also a custom of lighting bonfires and jumping over them on the eve of the holiday. According to ancient beliefs, this ritual symbolizes the purification of a person from hardships and negative energy. As international experience shows, Nowruz is a cultural tradition that also functions as an important instrument of cultural diplomacy between countries. The participation of different states in events dedicated to Nowruz contributes to strengthening friendly relations among nations. This circumstance is particularly significant in the context of promoting the ideas of peace and mutual understanding in the modern world. In the contemporary period, the Nowruz holiday acts as an important cultural phenomenon that increases the interest of the younger generation in national values. The organization of events dedicated to the holiday in schools, higher educational institutions, and cultural centers helps strengthen young people's respect for historical heritage and folk traditions. At the same time, Nowruz also carries significant ecological meaning. The holiday promotes such values as respect for nature, the preservation of green spaces, planting vegetation, and maintaining natural balance. For this purpose, in Turkmenistan, every year on March 21, in accordance with a Decree of the President of the country, a nationwide tree-planting campaign is held. This initiative aims to transform the country into a flourishing green land, create forest zones, and ensure proper care of newly planted trees. Such initiatives gain particular importance against the backdrop of modern environmental challenges and contribute to fostering a responsible attitude toward nature within society. Nowruz also serves as a symbol of national tradition and state cultural policy along with comprehensive initiatives implemented at the national level. In Turkmenistan, the preservation of national traditions and cultural heritage is one of the priority directions of state policy. Large-scale work in this field is clearly reflected, in particular, in the widespread celebration of Nowruz at the state level. Government-organized events, festivals, national games, and artistic performances create a festive atmosphere and contribute to fostering respect for national traditions among young people, preserving the cultural heritage of the nation, and strengthening the spiritual values of society. The cultural policy promoted by the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, as well as by the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, ensures the successful implementation of such initiatives and plays an important role in promoting the rich historical and cultural heritage of the Turkmen people on the international stage. Nowruz serves as a spiritual force that unites society. It promotes universal human values such as peace, unity, and mutual respect. Consequently, this holiday represents a heritage of the past while also serving as a significant element of a cultural strategy oriented toward the future. According to the opinions of a number of researchers, Nowruz is one of the oldest celebrations that has survived to the present day. Its preservation across thousands of years in various cultures demonstrates that Nowruz is regarded as an important part of the shared cultural heritage of humanity.
Turkmenistan has outlined new steps in its partnership with the International Maritime Organisation
15.03.2026On 13 March, Rashid Meredov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan and the Minister for Foreign Affairs, reported on the expansion of Turkmenistan’s cooperation with the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) during a government meeting. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. It is noted that one of the country’s foreign policy priorities is cooperation with international organisations, including UN bodies and the IMO. Turkmenistan, a member of the Organisation since 26 August 1993, has acceded to 14 of its conventions and is working to bring national legislation into line with them. The Deputy Prime Minister proposed a number of initiatives to implement the country’s transport diplomacy and strengthen its partnership with the IMO. There are plans to establish a working group comprising relevant ministries to facilitate accession to conventions, including the Convention on Facilitation of International Maritime Traffic. Visits by IMO officials, seminars and practical conferences are also planned for 2026 in Turkmenistan to discuss prospects for cooperation. Having heard the report, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov noted the country’s productive work in meeting the requirements of the IMO conventions and approved the proposals, instructing the Minister of Foreign Affairs to implement them.
Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan discussed expanding cooperation in the field of migration
15.03.2026Representatives of the State Migration Service of Turkmenistan and the Embassy of Uzbekistan held a working meeting dedicated to key aspects of bilateral cooperation in the field of migration. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The parties discussed the prospects and potential of the Turkmen-Uzbek partnership, as well as joint initiatives and opportunities for expanding cooperation in the field of migration. During the meeting, particular attention was paid to the traditionally friendly relations between the two states and the active development of their partnership. At the conclusion of the discussion, the participants expressed confidence in the further strengthening of cooperation in this area.
Turkmenistan will present a national pavilion at the World Expo in Belgrade
15.03.2026On 13 March, during a government meeting, Nokerguly Atagulyev, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan, reported on preparations for Turkmenistan’s participation in the ‘EXPO-2027’ World Specialised Exhibition in Belgrade (Serbia). This was reported by the state news agency TDH. As part of the preparations, construction work and the design of the national pavilion are underway; it will be presented under the motto ‘Turkmenistan – the Melody of Peace, the Land of Health’. The Deputy Prime Minister presented the relevant proposal to the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov. Having heard the report, the Head of State emphasised the importance of the country’s participation in major international events for the development of foreign economic relations and instructed that preparations for the exhibition continue.
Beijing discussed the prospects for the Turkmen-Chinese Investment Forum
15.03.2026On 13 March, a presentation was held in Beijing for the Turkmen-Chinese Investment Forum, which is due to take place on 28–30 April in Ashgabat. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The event was organised by the China Overseas Development Association (CODA) with the support of the Embassy of Turkmenistan in the PRC and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan. Turkmenistan’s Ambassador to China, Parahat Durdyev, spoke about the country’s investment opportunities, highlighting the stable macroeconomic situation and incentives for foreign investors. Representatives of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan presented projects in the fields of raw materials processing, transport and logistics, as well as the development of transit corridors involving China. The event concluded with a session of direct negotiations between Chinese entrepreneurs and the Turkmen side.
Turkmenistan and the ICRC discussed the development of humanitarian cooperation
15.03.2026On 13 March, a meeting took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan between the country’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Rashid Meredov, and Biljana Milošević, Head of the International Committee of the Red Cross’s regional office for Central Asia. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed topical issues of humanitarian cooperation and prospects for further interaction. The Turkmen side emphasised the country’s commitment to its status of permanent neutrality, the strengthening of peace and the development of constructive international cooperation, paying particular attention to the humanitarian aspects of regional security and the protection of the civilian population. It was noted that Turkmenistan consistently adheres to the norms of international humanitarian law and upholds the principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality and independence in humanitarian activities. Ashgabat also highly commended the work of the International Committee of the Red Cross in providing assistance to people in difficult humanitarian situations and promoting international humanitarian law. The parties exchanged views on the implementation of the initiative by the President of Turkmenistan to declare 2028 the Year of International Law, and also discussed monitoring the humanitarian situation in the region and opportunities for expanding cooperation, including the exchange of experience, expert consultations and joint training activities. Particular attention was paid to strengthening the capacity of national bodies involved in humanitarian response.
A delegation from a Turkmen university visited the University of Westminster
14.03.2026A delegation from Turkmenistan, including representatives from the International University for the Humanities and Development, visited the University of Westminster’s campus in London on Regent Street and Marylebone Street. This was reported by the press office of the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan. Representatives of the University of Westminster — Joseph Coote-Cowling, Anastasia Bezborodova and others — conducted tours of the teaching buildings, laboratories, libraries, research centres and sports facilities. The Turkmen delegation met with Professors Nitasha Kaul and Karen Jackson, who spoke about the work of the Centre for the Study of Democracy and the Forum for the Study of the Silk Road and Uzbekistan, and expressed their willingness to organise joint seminars, online courses and programmes for students, including study visits to international organisations and companies. The parties discussed options for bilateral cooperation and agreed to continue these discussions through diplomatic channels.
Read also
Advertising
Read us in Zen
