The Mejlis of Turkmenistan has approved the motto for 2026: ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’. The decision coincides with the start of the 35th anniversary of the country's independence, according to the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’.

The symbolism of the motto is linked to national values and objectives defined by state programmes. The image of the Ahal-Teke horse traditionally occupies a special place in the culture of Turkmenistan and is considered an element of historical heritage and national identity.

The country pays attention to the development of horse breeding and equestrian sports, the training of specialists in this field and the expansion of international cooperation in this area. The activities of the International Association of Breeding of Ahal-Teke Horses, headquartered in Ashgabat, are aimed at preserving the breed's gene pool and implementing scientific projects with foreign partners.

An important milestone was the inclusion of the nomination ‘Art of Ahal-Teke horse breeding and traditions of horses' decoration’ in the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The decision was made in December 2023 at a session of the UNESCO Inter-governmental Committee.

The city of Arkadag is home to the Scientific and Production Laboratory of Horse Breeding and the Aba Annayev International Academy of Horse Breeding. Their activities are focused on scientific research, educational programmes and the training of a new generation of specialists.

The motto for 2026 reflects the priorities of Turkmenistan's internal development and foreign humanitarian policy, combining a reference to historical traditions with the tasks of modern development.