News
XRG is strengthening its position in Turkmenistan’s energy market
05.10.2026XRG, a company established by ADNOC, is expanding its presence in Turkmenistan’s energy sector. In May 2025, it acquired a 38 per cent stake in Offshore Block I in the Turkmen sector of the Caspian Sea, becoming a partner of PETRONAS and the state-owned enterprise ‘Hazarnebit’ under a production-sharing agreement with the State Concern ‘Türkmennebit’, according to the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. PETRONAS holds a 57 per cent stake and acts as the project operator, whilst XRG holds 38 per cent and ‘Hazarnebit’ 5 per cent. Block I’s resource base is estimated at over 7 trillion cubic feet of natural gas. XRG and PETRONAS have also entered into a long-term gas sales agreement with the State Concern ‘Türkmengaz’. XRG was established by ADNOC in November 2024 as an international energy investment company. Its activities include gas projects, LNG, the chemical industry, infrastructure and energy solutions. The company is building an international portfolio of assets, including in the US, Egypt, Mozambique, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan and Latin American countries. In September 2025, XRG opened an office in Ashgabat. It has become a platform for engagement with government bodies, partners and market participants. XRG’s participation as a Diamond Partner in the 31st International Conference and Exhibition ‘Oil and Gas of Turkmenistan – 2026’ (OGT 2026) reflects the development of the company’s cooperation with Turkmenistan. The forum will take place in Ashgabat from 21 to 23 October 2026. For XRG, participation in Block I has laid the foundations for a long-term presence in the Turkmen market. The company is also exploring areas related to the development of offshore fields, refining, export infrastructure, methane emission reduction, digitalisation and the introduction of new technologies.
Turkmen athletes have won 554 medals in nine months
05.10.2026Between January and September 2026, athletes from Turkmenistan won 554 medals at international competitions. Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers B. Mammedov announced this at a government meeting dedicated to the country's socioeconomic development results for the past nine months, according to the ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’ news agency. In July–August, Turkmen athletes won 83 medals. In total, between January and September, the country’s representatives won 554 medals at international competitions. It was also noted at the meeting that work is continuing in the country to develop physical culture and sport. The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, emphasised the importance of further improving work in the fields of science and education, healthcare and sport.
Turkmenistan and Japan are developing cooperation in science and technology
05.10.2026From 2 to 8 October, a Turkmen delegation is on a working visit to Japan. The delegation comprises A. Ashirov, President of the Academy of Sciences of Turkmenistan; G. Mezilov, Rector of the Oguz Han University of Engineering and Technology of Turkmenistan; and I. Orazov, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Cyber-Physical Systems. This was reported by the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. During the visit, discussions are taking place on the current state and prospects of scientific, educational and technological cooperation, as well as new areas of collaboration. The delegation held meetings with representatives of leading Japanese universities, research institutions and technology companies. In particular, negotiations were held with H. Koinuma, Chairman of the Turkmen-Japanese Association for Scientific and Technological Cooperation; Professors Yuji Matsumoto of Tohoku University and Kenji Itaka of Hirosaki University; and M. Yamazumi, a representative of ‘Tohkemy Corporation’. The parties reviewed the implementation of the Memoranda of Understanding concluded between Japanese institutions and the Oguz Han Engineering and Technology University of Turkmenistan. Particular attention was paid to the development of academic cooperation with Tohoku University, including student and staff exchanges and collaboration within educational programmes. Joint scientific research, conferences and training seminars, the expansion of academic ties and the participation of young researchers in scientific projects were also discussed. Modern technologies, engineering, artificial intelligence and innovation were identified as priority areas for cooperation.
Masdar City will take part in CIET 2026 in Ashgabat
05.10.2026A delegation from Masdar City in Abu Dhabi will take part in the CIET 2026 International Conference and Exhibition, which will be held in Ashgabat from 3 to 5 November. At the forum, Masdar City will present its expertise in the fields of sustainable urban development, master planning, digital transformation and the implementation of infrastructure projects, according to the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. As part of the visit, representatives from Masdar City plan to hold meetings with Turkmenistan’s professional and academic communities. The programme also includes a lecture at the Turkmen State Institute of Architecture and Construction and a visit to the city of Arkadag. Masdar City is a centre for sustainable urban development, international business and technology in Abu Dhabi. Its model incorporates sustainable architecture and planning, renewable energy, resource efficiency, digital technologies and smart mobility. The total capacity of the city’s installed photovoltaic systems exceeds 11 MW. The CIET 2026 International Conference and Exhibition will bring together representatives from government bodies, international companies, investors, architects, engineers and technology solution providers. To date, over 200 delegates have registered. The official opening of the forum will take place on 3 November. CIET 2026 will feature an exhibition, business meetings and a plenary session entitled ‘Innovation. Investment. Growth: A New Era for Construction, Industry and Infrastructure Development in Turkmenistan’. Masdar City’s participation will create opportunities to share expertise in the fields of modern urban planning, energy-efficient buildings, digital technologies and innovation.
The Head of Turkmenistan congratulated Emomali Rahmon on his birthday
05.10.2026The Head of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, has congratulated the President of the Republic of Tajikistan, Emomali Rahmon, on his birthday. This was reported by the TDH news agency. In his message of congratulations, the Head of Turkmenistan highlighted the strengthening of Tajikistan’s position, the implementation of reforms and the expansion of international cooperation. Serdar Berdimuhamedov emphasised the importance of Emomali Rahmon’s leadership and work in ensuring the sustainable development and well-being of the Tajik people. The President of Turkmenistan highlighted the friendly and good-neighbourly relations between Turkmenistan and Tajikistan and expressed confidence in the further expansion of mutually beneficial cooperation. The Head of Turkmenistan wished President Emomali Rahmon good health, family well-being and success in his state duties, and wished the people of Tajikistan peace, prosperity and new achievements.
Turkmenistan’s culture was showcased at the Asian festival held in Bucharest
04.10.2026On 3 October, the 4th Asian Culture Festival, ‘One Continent. Thousands of Stories’, took place in Bucharest. It was organised by the Embassy of Turkmenistan in conjunction with the diplomatic missions of Asian countries, with the support of the ‘Dimitrie Gusti’ National Village Museum, reports Turkmenportal. The Embassy of Turkmenistan presented an exhibition dedicated to the country’s historical and cultural heritage, traditional arts and contemporary achievements. Guests were shown national costumes featuring traditional embroidery, Turkmen carpets, handicrafts, musical instruments and photographic material. A separate section was devoted to literature. It featured works by the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, and the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, as well as works by Magtymguly Pyragy in various languages, including Romanian. The programme concluded with an event entitled ‘Cuisine of Asian Countries’, during which participants presented traditional dishes from their respective countries. The festival served as a platform for cultural exchange and brought together representatives from diplomatic circles, the public and the media.
An Italian jazz singer is set to perform on stage at the Ashgabat Theatre
04.10.2026On 20 November 2026, the Magtymguly National Music and Drama Theatre in the capital will host a concert by the Italian jazz singer Simona De Rosa. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. The musical evening will begin at 7.00 pm and will form part of the programme of events for the European Culture Days in Turkmenistan. The cultural event is organised by the country’s Ministry of Culture and the Delegation of the European Union.
Turkmenistan’s transport sector has increased the volume of work carried out
04.10.2026In January–September 2026, the growth rate of work completed and services provided by Turkmenistan’s transport and communications sector stood at 114.7 per cent. This was announced by B. Annayev, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers, according to the news agency TDH. According to the Deputy Prime Minister, the target for freight transport across all modes of transport was met at 108 per cent, whilst that for passenger transport was met at 102 per cent. The growth rate for services provided by the Ministry of Rail Transport stood at 107.4 per cent, the Ministry of Road Transport at 115.8 per cent, the State Service ‘Türkmenhowaýollary’ — 121.8 per cent, the State Service for Maritime and River Transport — 105 per cent, and the Ministry of Communications — 115.3 per cent. Having heard the report, the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, instructed that the development of the transport and communications sector should continue and that the volume of passenger and freight transport should be increased. The Deputy Prime Minister was also instructed to take measures to increase the capacity of the rail network.
Students from Turkmenistan have won 1,040 medals at international Olympiads
04.10.2026Between January and September 2026, athletes from Turkmenistan won 554 medals at international competitions, whilst school students and university students won 1,040 medals at international subject Olympiads. This was announced by the Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers, B. Mammedov, at a government meeting, according to the news agency TDH. According to the Deputy Prime Minister, modern teaching methods were introduced in the education sector over the course of the nine months. To mark Knowledge and Student Youth Day, educational institutions held celebratory events and held their first lessons on the theme ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’. First-year pupils were presented with laptops. The Deputy Prime Minister noted that, in the presence of the Head of State, new buildings had been opened at the Turkmen State Institute of Architecture and Construction and the Seyitnazar Seydi Turkmen State Pedagogical Institute, as well as educational institutions in the Ahal and Lebap velayats. In the scientific sphere, work continued to improve the effectiveness of research and to introduce new technologies into production. The country’s scientists were awarded the academic titles of professor, associate professor and senior research fellow. According to the Deputy Prime Minister’s report, modern methods of practical medicine were being introduced into the healthcare system. Surgeries and treatment for children were carried out using funds from the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship. In September, a month-long campaign entitled ‘Road safety is the peace of our life’ took place. Having heard the report, the Head of State instructed that work in the fields of science, education, healthcare and sport should continue to be improved. The Deputy Prime Minister was also instructed to make preparations for the opening of modern medical facilities in time for Healthcare and Medical Industry Workers’ Day.
Turkmenistan’s trade and business sectors have seen an increase in their performance figures
04.10.2026At the Government meeting on 2 October, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers N. Atagulyev reported on the performance of the ministries, sectoral agencies and the business sector under his supervision for January–September 2026. This was reported by the news agency TDH. According to the Deputy Prime Minister, during this period, trade turnover under the Ministry of Trade and Foreign Economic Affairs rose to 113.2 per cent compared with the same period last year. At the Ministry of the Textile Industry, the growth rate in production stood at 106.4 per cent. Output of cotton yarn reached 102.3 per cent, fabrics 100.9 per cent, sewn and knitted goods 102.6 per cent, and leather products 100.5 per cent. Total revenue of the enterprises within the ‘Türkmenhaly’ State Association rose to 107.6 per cent. The State Commodity and Raw Materials Exchange held 222 trading sessions, during which 23,460 contracts were registered. The growth rate of work carried out by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry stood at 107.3 per cent. Over the nine-month period, 18 exhibitions and 10 conferences were held. Within the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs, the production of agricultural and food products rose to 110.4 per cent, whilst that of industrial goods rose to 109.2 per cent. Having heard the report, the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, instructed officials to monitor the efficient use of production facilities in the trade sector and ensure that markets are supplied with products in demand. The Deputy Prime Minister was also instructed to continue the modernisation of textile enterprises.
A digital guide to Japan is to be launched for Turkmen students
04.10.2026A digital ‘Information Guide’ has been created for Turkmen students and young professionals travelling to Japan for study and work placements. The platform is designed to assist citizens of Turkmenistan with their practical, administrative and cultural adaptation, according to the press office of the Turkmen university. The project was developed by students at the Oguz Han Engineering and Technology University of Turkmenistan, drawing on their experience of work placements at Japanese universities. The platform contains instructions on preparing for the trip, applying for a visa, going through airport procedures, registration, obtaining a residence card and taking out national health insurance. The platform also features resources on everyday life, education, work ethics and cultural aspects of Japan. The platform is scheduled to launch in time for the autumn intake of 2026. The project’s development is based on collaboration between Oguz Han University and Japanese universities, including the Universities of Tsukuba, Tohoku and Hirosaki.
Students from Turkmenistan took part in an OSCE training course on media literacy
04.10.2026From 30 September to 2 October 2026, the OSCE Centre held a training course in Ashgabat on enhancing media and information literacy with a view to preventing violent extremism and radicalisation. This was reported by the press office of the IIR MFA of Turkmenistan. The event was attended by students from Turkmen universities, representatives of the Magtymguly Youth Organisation, young volunteers from the National Red Crescent Society and civil society organisations. Participants learnt methods for verifying sources, identifying disinformation and critically evaluating online content, including material generated using AI. Practical sessions focused on finding primary sources, cross-referencing data, the responsible use of AI and the protection of personal data. At the end of the training, participants completed practical tasks and received certificates.
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