News
Turkey highlighted the importance of expanding women’s rights in public life
07.10.2026Sevim Sayim Madak, Deputy Minister for Family and Social Services of the Republic of Turkey, addressed the International Women’s Dialogue on ‘The Role of Women in Maintaining Peace and Achieving Sustainable Development’, taking place at the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone, according to IIC of Turkmenistan. In her speech, Sevim Sayim Madak noted that relations between Turkey and Turkmenistan are based on shared historical, linguistic and cultural ties. She said that Turkey was the first country to recognise Turkmenistan’s independence. Turkey’s Deputy Minister for Family and Social Services also emphasised the need for further exchange of experience and the strengthening of solidarity between the two countries in addressing economic, social, environmental and humanitarian issues. She paid particular attention to the empowerment of women and their participation in public life. In Turkey, a Strategic Document and Action Plan for 2024–2028 is being implemented in this area, covering education, healthcare, the economy, leadership and climate change. In addition, the country is implementing its fifth National Action Plan to Combat Violence against Women for 2026–2030. According to the Deputy Minister for Family and Social Services of Turkey, in today’s world women are not only those affected by crises, but also key actors in peacemaking.
Belarus outlined its gender policy priorities at the forum in ‘Awaza’
07.10.2026Natalia Pavlyuchenko, Chair of the Standing Committee on Education, Science, Culture and Social Development of the Council of the Republic of the National Assembly of the Republic of Belarus, spoke at the International Women’s Dialogue ‘The Role of Women in Maintaining Peace and Achieving Sustainable Development’ at the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. Natalia Pavlyuchenko noted that gender equality and support for motherhood and childhood are priorities of Belarus’s state policy. According to the speaker, women make up 54 per cent of the country’s population, and their employment rate among those of working age exceeds 85.5 per cent. Belarus has a National Council on Gender Policy under the Government, ensures equal pay, and creates conditions that allow women to balance their professional careers with bringing up children. Natalia Pavlyuchenko also reported that women hold almost 33 per cent of seats in the National Assembly, 36 per cent of posts in senior government bodies, 48 per cent of seats in local government bodies and 67 per cent of posts in the courts. The proportion of women-led businesses has reached almost 42 per cent. She emphasised that the protection of the family is enshrined in the Constitution of Belarus. The country also promotes a pro-family agenda on the international stage. In conclusion, Natalya Pavlyuchenko invited international partners to a family forum, which will take place in Polotsk on 12–13 October in an international format.
Iran’s Minister of Roads and Urban Development spoke at a Women’s Forum in Turkmenistan
07.10.2026Minister of Roads and Urban Development of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Farzaneh Sadegh Malvajerd, spoke at the International Women’s Dialogue on ‘The Role of Women in Maintaining Peace and Achieving Sustainable Development’, which is taking place at the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone. In her address, she discussed the role of women in the country’s socio-economic development, according to IIC of Turkmenistan. The Iranian representative highlighted the contribution of Iranian women to overcoming crises, rebuilding infrastructure, and advancing science, culture, sport and entrepreneurship. According to Iran’s Minister of Roads and Urban Development, the International Women’s Dialogue in Turkmenistan facilitates the exchange of experience and strengthens cooperation on issues relating to the empowerment of women. Speaking on government policy, the Iranian Minister of Roads and Urban Development emphasised that development programmes in the Islamic Republic of Iran are aimed at strengthening the institution of the family, removing barriers to women’s professional advancement, protecting their rights and ensuring social justice.
Kazakhstan’s Minister of Health has set out the priorities for the protection of women and children
07.10.2026At a forum taking place in the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone, Akmaral Alnazarova, Minister of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan, outlined the key priorities of state policy in the areas of protecting women’s rights, safeguarding motherhood and childhood, and combating climate-related threats. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. In her speech, the Minister of Health noted that Kazakhstan is continuing its state and legal reforms. One of the key milestones was the adoption of the new People’s Constitution in a nationwide referendum in March 2026. The document enshrined provisions on human rights, equality and social justice. Particular attention was paid to issues of gender equality. Kazakhstan adheres to its international obligations, including the Beijing Declaration and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. ‘Today, our key task is not simply to guarantee equal rights, but to create real conditions for women’s active participation in public administration, the economy and the country’s socio-political life,’ said Health Minister Akmaral Alnazaraova. Another theme of her speech was the link between climate change and public health. According to the Minister of Health, rising temperatures, extreme heat, dwindling water resources and the degradation of ecosystems pose risks, particularly to women and children. Akmaral Alnazaraova emphasised the need for preventive measures and for the region’s states, international experts and financial institutions to join forces to counter climate-related threats. The forum is continuing its work, focusing on the exchange of experience and the development of joint solutions in the field of sustainable development.
A representative from Uzbekistan spoke at the International Women’s Dialogue at ‘Awaza’
07.10.2026Dilnozahon Sobir kizi Kattahonova, Deputy Prime Minister and Chair of the Committee on Family and Women’s Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan, addressed the International Women’s Dialogue on ‘The Role of Women in Maintaining Peace and Achieving Sustainable Development’, taking place at the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. In her speech, the representative of Uzbekistan highlighted the importance of Turkmenistan’s policy of permanent neutrality in building trust and fostering a culture of dialogue in the region. The Chair of the Committee on Family and Women’s Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan emphasised that economic instability, climate change, and issues of water and food security have a particularly severe impact on the situation of women and children. In this regard, issues of gender equality and the advancement of women’s rights must be taken into account when making decisions, conducting negotiations and implementing post-conflict reconstruction programmes. Dilnozahon Sobir kizi Kattahonova also outlined the main priorities of Uzbekistan’s state policy on supporting women. These include women’s participation in decision-making, the development of education and human capital, ensuring employment and economic stability, expanding social infrastructure, and targeted support through the ‘Women’s Notebook’ scheme. In conclusion, the Deputy Prime Minister thanked the Turkmen side, the Heads of delegations and international organisations for their assistance in organising the event. She emphasised the importance of investment in women’s development and education for the long-term stability and development of the Central Asian region.
The UN has highlighted Turkmenistan’s contribution to promoting gender equality
07.10.2026A United Nations representative at the International Women’s Dialogue meeting in Awaza highlighted the persistent barriers to achieving gender equality and called for international commitments to be translated into concrete action. This was reported by IIC of Turkmenistan. During her speech, she thanked the Government of Turkmenistan for organising a forum to discuss this agenda. The UN representative emphasised that, despite women’s growing role in decision-making, systemic problems persist. She noted that these issues remain relevant 45 years after the adoption of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and more than 30 years after the adoption of the Beijing Platform for Action. According to her, achieving progress requires the involvement not only of women, but also of men and boys. The speaker paid particular attention to the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Turkmenistan. She highlighted data, policy and services as key instruments for gender equality. The UN representative noted the multi-indicator cluster surveys carried out in the country, covering 6,600 households, the preparation of the Third Voluntary National Review on the SDGs, and the adoption of the National Action Plan on Gender Equality.
Valentina Matvienko highlighted the role of women at the forum in Turkmenistan
07.10.2026Valentina Matvienko, Chair of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation, addressed the ‘International Women’s Dialogue’ forum, which is taking place at the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone. This was reported by IIC of Turkmenistan. In her speech, Valentina Matvienko noted the significance of holding the forum in Turkmenistan and emphasised the role of women in socio-political and international life. ‘The honouring of women and the high regard for their dignity in Turkmenistan have been elevated to the status of sanctity,’ emphasised Valentina Matvienko. The Chair of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation expressed her gratitude to the Mejlis of Turkmenistan and the Central Council of the Union of Women of Turkmenistan for organising the forum. She also noted that the event was taking place in the year marking the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s independence, and conveyed congratulations on behalf of the CIS Interparliamentary Assembly and the Federation Council. According to Valentina Matvienko, women can make a significant contribution to the development of international dialogue and the search for solutions to global problems. ‘I am convinced that it is women who are capable of bringing to the complex global agenda a desire for dialogue and the ability to resolve pressing problems by seeking compromises. Today, in an era of tectonic shifts and the transition to a new multipolar world order, there is a growing demand for the humanisation of international politics and the economy, and we, as women, are called upon to play a key role in all these processes,’ stated the Speaker of the Federation Council. Valentina Matvienko also highlighted the role of the UN and the Sustainable Development Goals, noting the importance of women’s participation in their implementation. Valentina Matvienko spoke about historical examples of Russian women’s participation in public life, mentioning Ekaterina Dashkova, Alexandra Kollontai, Lydia Zvereva and Valentina Tereshkova. The Chair of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation also highlighted the implementation in Russia of the National Strategy for Action in the Interests of Women up to 2030, the representation of women in government bodies and their participation in the fields of education, healthcare and science. In conclusion, the Chair of the Federation Council emphasised Russia’s readiness to exchange experience and best practice in the field of development and international cooperation.
The Chairwoman of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan highlighted the growing role of women in society
07.10.2026At the International Women’s Dialogue, the Chairwoman of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan, D. Gulmanova, highlighted the growing role of women in public life and social development. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. D. Gulmanova noted that conditions have been created in Turkmenistan for women’s participation in public administration, the socio-economic sphere and international diplomacy. National legislation enshrines equal rights and opportunities for citizens regardless of gender. In this area, there is a specific law on state guarantees of equality and national action plans in place. According to the Chairwoman of the Mejlis, Turkmenistan cooperates with UN Women and the United Nations Population Fund, and is a party to international conventions. The country also participates in regional initiatives to implement the global ‘Women, Peace and Security’ agenda in Central Asia. It was noted that, to date, Turkmen women are represented in the legislative, executive and judicial branches of government, as well as in various sectors of the national economy.
A session of the International Women’s Dialogue has opened at the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone
07.10.2026A session of the International Women’s Dialogue has opened in the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone, attended by representatives of legislative bodies, diplomatic missions, international organisations and expert communities. This was reported by the IIC. Participants are discussing the implementation of the global ‘Women, Peace and Security’ agenda, women’s participation in preventive diplomacy and the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Particular attention is being paid to legal mechanisms for ensuring equal opportunities for women in public administration, the socio-economic sphere and peacekeeping processes. Following the meeting, it is planned to draw up recommendations on strengthening legal protection for women, their participation in international cooperation and the promotion of peace initiatives.
Turkmen juniors won the team event in combat sambo
07.10.2026The Turkmenistan national team took first place in the Junior Combat Sambo team event at the World Cadet, Youth & Junior SAMBO Championships in Thessaloniki. The Turkmen athletes won six medals — three gold, two silver and one bronze, according to Turkmenportal. The gold medallists were Alihan Aydogdyev (under 58 kg), Islam Hemrayev (under 71 kg) and Malikberdi Begiyev (over 98 kg). The silver medallists were Rasul Jabrailov (under 64 kg) and Velmyrat Nepesov (up to 88 kg). Dovrangeldi Kakayev won the bronze medal in the up to 79 kg weight category. The Russian team took second place, whilst Georgia came third. The International Sambo Federation noted that Russia won the team competition in all disciplines except junior combat sambo. The World Cadet, Youth & Junior SAMBO Championships took place from 2 to 4 October at the PAOK Sports Arena. A total of 713 athletes from 40 countries took part in the competition. A total of 55 sets of medals were awarded, with representatives from 25 countries receiving honours. In the overall team standings, Turkmenistan finished fifth, winning eight medals.
Turkmenistan is represented at the Science and Technology Forum in Kyoto
07.10.2026A Turkmen delegation comprising representatives from the Academy of Sciences of Turkmenistan and the Oguz Han University of Engineering and Technology of Turkmenistan took part in the international forum ‘Science and Technology in Society’ (STS), which is being held in the Japanese city of Kyoto. The forum also included the 22nd round-table meeting at the level of ministers of science and technology. This was reported by the news agency “Turkmenistan: Golden age”. The official opening of the STS took place on 4 October. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi emphasised the need to harness scientific innovation in the interests of sustainable development, peace and the well-being of humanity. During the plenary and thematic sessions, participants discussed the prospects for the development of science and technology up to 2030 and beyond. The main focus was on artificial intelligence, biotechnology and renewable energy, as well as issues relating to their development in accordance with ethical principles. As part of the forum, a session was held chaired by Julie Maxton, Executive Director of the Royal Society of London. Participants examined the impact of artificial intelligence on society, as well as the ethical and practical risks associated with its development. On 5 October, Allaberdi Ashirov, President of the Academy of Sciences of Turkmenistan, addressed the ‘Academy of Science Presidents’ Meeting’. He outlined the main directions of Turkmenistan’s state policy in the field of science, including the development of research activities, the introduction of high technologies into production, and the training of young scientists. Particular attention in his speech was paid to international scientific cooperation, joint innovation projects and the exchange of experience between academies of sciences. The Turkmen delegation’s visit to Japan will last until 8 October. It is aimed at developing cooperation in the scientific, educational and technological spheres.
Ashgabat and Moscow discussed strengthening bilateral ties
07.10.2026On 6 October, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, arrived in the city of Turkmenbashi in the Balkan velayat. At the ‘Avaza’ National Tourist Zone, Hero Arkadag met Valentina Matvienko, Chair of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation, who had arrived in Turkmenistan to take part in the International Women’s Dialogue on ‘The Role of Women in Maintaining Peace and Achieving Sustainable Development’, reports the news agency TDH. During the meeting, Valentina Matvienko conveyed greetings and wishes for success and prosperity from Vladimir Putin, President of the Russian Federation, to Hero Arkadag and the President of Turkmenistan. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov expressed his gratitude and conveyed his best wishes to the Russian leader. The parties discussed the development of Turkmen-Russian relations and cooperation within the framework of the UN, the CIS and other international organisations. Particular attention was paid to inter-parliamentary cooperation, as well as ties in the fields of education and science. During the meeting, it was noted that thousands of Turkmen citizens are studying at Russian universities. The importance of the forthcoming International Women’s Dialogue for the further development of international cooperation was also emphasised. At the conclusion of the meeting, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov and Valentina Matvienko wished each other good health and success, and the peoples of Turkmenistan and Russia well-being and prosperity. Following the meeting, Hero Arkadag flew from Turkmenbashi International Airport to Ashgabat.
Read also
Advertising
Read us in Zen
