News
Ashgabat and Ankara strengthen cooperation in the field of migration
12.03.2026A working meeting between representatives of the State Migration Service of Turkmenistan and the Main Directorate of the Migration Service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Turkey was held in the format of a video conference. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. During the talks, the parties discussed the prospects for the development of Turkmen-Turkish cooperation in the field of migration and exchanged views on key areas of interaction. The participants also noted the importance of joint work within international organisations and expressed confidence in the further strengthening of the partnership between the two countries in the field of migration.
Turkmenistan strengthens its position in world equestrian sport through the FEI
12.03.2026A meeting was held in Lausanne between Vepa Hajiyev, Permanent Representative of Turkmenistan to the United Nations Office in Geneva, Ingmar De Vos, President of the International Equestrian Federation (FEI), and Sabrina Ibáñez, Secretary General of the Federation, according to IIC. The main topic of the talks was the expansion of strategic partnership in the field of equestrian sports and the inclusion of Turkmenistan in the calendar of major international competitions. The Turkmen side emphasised the significance of 2026, which has been declared the year of ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’ in the country, and expressed interest in hosting prestigious show jumping tournaments under the auspices of the FEI. Special attention was paid to the development of the International Equestrian Academy: the parties discussed attracting experts from the federation to train professional staff and teachers. The prospect of holding one of the future FEI General Assemblies in Turkmenistan was also considered. The Turkmen delegation confirmed its participation in the next assembly, scheduled for December 2026 in Guangzhou. Strengthening cooperation with the FEI opens up new opportunities for the professional growth of Turkmen riders and the promotion of national cultural heritage on the international stage.
CIS Secretary General meets with Turkmen Ambassador in Moscow
12.03.2026An official meeting between CIS Secretary General Sergey Lebedev and Turkmenistan's Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Esen Aydogdyev took place in Moscow. The negotiations took place at the Commonwealth Executive Committee and were timed to coincide with the end of Aydogdyev's diplomatic mission in Russia and his appointment to a new government position, according to IIC. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of multilateral cooperation within the CIS, preparations for the meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers and key aspects of Turkmenistan's chairmanship of the organisation. Ashgabat's significant contribution to strengthening integration ties and constructive dialogue between the Commonwealth countries was noted. The Secretary General thanked Esen Aydogdyev for his effective work and wished him success in his future professional activities. Earlier, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov signed a Decree transferring Aydogdyev to the post of Head of the Embassy of Turkmenistan in the United States of America. The appointment to such a responsible position underscores the recognition of the diplomat's merits and the importance of the new tasks of the country's foreign policy department.
Turkmenistan preserves its 12th-century heritage — the mausoleum of Yusuf Hamadani
12.03.2026The mausoleum of the Islamic theologian and Sufi sheikh Yusuf Hamadani, located within the State Historical and Cultural Reserve ‘Ancient Merv,’ remains one of the key monuments of Turkmenistan, the IIC reports. Constructed in the 12th century, the complex combines the historical heritage of the Seljuks, the flourishing of Eastern philosophy, and the precision of medieval architecture. During that era, Merv – known as ‘Maru-shahu jahan’ (‘King of the World’) – was an intellectual capital of the Islamic world, where prominent scholars worked, including Omar Khayyam. Yusuf ibn Ayyub al-Hamadani, also known as Hoja Yusuf Baba, followed a path from an outstanding jurist of the Baghdad Nizamiyya school to a spiritual mentor and the founder of the Khwajagan Sufi tradition. His teachings, based on social engagement and the rejection of ostentatious ritualism, became an integral part of the cultural identity of Central Asia. The mausoleum erected over his grave after 1140 reflects the architectural achievements of the “Seljuk Golden Age.” The transition from a cubic base to a dome symbolizes the path of knowledge—from the earthly to the divine. Researchers note that the original dome was likely double-layered: the inner shell provided acoustics, the outer one served as a landmark, while the air gap between them regulated the internal temperature. The façades are decorated using the “hazarbaf” technique, in which bricks laid at different angles create a play of light and shadow, complemented by calligraphy and vegetal ornaments. Despite the destruction of Merv by the armies of Genghis Khan in 1221, the mausoleum survived due to its strong masonry and the special status of the site, which continued to serve as a place of pilgrimage. During the Timurid period, the complex was expanded to include mosques and caravanserai-like guest houses. Today, the mausoleum of Hoja Yusuf Baba remains a center of spiritual attraction: for scholars, it is a valuable source of knowledge about Seljuk technologies and aesthetics; for believers, it is a place of an unbroken spiritual tradition that has endured for more than nine centuries.
Turkmenistan strengthens its position in creative industries at regional forum
12.03.2026From 28 February to 2 March, Tashkent hosted the ‘Creative Central Asia 2026’ regional forum, which brought together experts from Central Asian countries and the United Kingdom. The event was dedicated to the development of creative industries as a strategic tool for urban development and human capital strengthening, according to the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The forum's programme covered interdisciplinary approaches and the implementation of innovations. Participants discussed the role of artificial intelligence, mechanisms for attracting investment, the formation of urban infrastructure, education, the economy of values and the skills of the future. The forum included panel discussions, a presentation of the results of the ‘City Rating’ hackathon and professional sessions for establishing business contacts. Turkmenistan was represented at the forum by a delegation of young professionals who are actively developing the country's technological and creative environment. Among them was Vasily Andronov, founder of the ‘Jam Creative’ scientific theatre for children and winner of the twelfth ‘StartUp Academy’ business incubation programme, organised jointly with the International Technological and Scientific Park of the Academy of Sciences of Turkmenistan. According to him, the trip allowed him to study the experience of neighbouring countries and confirmed Turkmenistan's active participation in regional initiatives. It is noted that in the spring of 2025, Ashgabat already hosted the International Forum ‘Creative and Innovative Economy of Turkmenistan’, which demonstrates the consistent development of the sector. Today, the creative economy in the country combines IT, design, art and architecture, creating opportunities for professional self-realisation and shaping the modern image of cities. The ‘Creative Central Asia’ initiative, launched by the British Council in 2017, continues to serve as a key platform for dialogue, promoting the integration of Turkmen professionals into the international creative community.
A meeting of the jury for the ‘Flight of the Horse’ competition was held in Turkmenistan
12.03.2026On 11 March, Turkmenistan hosted a coordination meeting of the jury of the Interstate Television Film Competition ‘The Flight of the Horse: Strength and Grace’, dedicated to the 35th anniversary of the Commonwealth of Independent States. The event took place within the framework of the country’s chairmanship of the CIS, according to the IIC. The meeting was attended by Annasahet Kakayev, Deputy Chairman of the State Committee of Turkmenistan for Television, Radio Broadcasting and Cinematography, and S. Bayramov, Deputy Chairman of the Oguzhan ‘Türkmenfilm’ Association. The name of the competition is symbolic: the Ahal-Teke horse, a national treasure of Turkmenistan, embodies nobility, endurance and continuity of traditions, and also serves as a symbol of strengthening cultural dialogue between the CIS countries. The main goal of the competition is to develop humanitarian cooperation and promote the national cinema of the participating countries. The submission of entries began in February, and the final award ceremony is scheduled for October 2026 in the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone. The jury is made up of leading representatives of the film industry, art historians and horse breeding experts from the CIS countries. The Turkmen side is represented by the Deputy Chairman of ‘Türkmenfilm’, Bayramov, and the Rector of the Aba Annayev International Equestrian Academy, the Head of the ‘Galkynysh’ group, Pygy Bayramdurdyev. This composition ensures the evaluation of both the artistic value of the films and the accuracy of the portrayal of the horse. During the online meeting, the jury agreed on the selection criteria and technical aspects of cooperation. The organisers emphasised that the competition will become an authoritative platform for the exchange of experience between screen masters, discovering new names in documentary and feature films and strengthening professional ties in the CIS media space.
Turkmenistan and ILO discuss cooperation in the field of labour legislation
12.03.2026The Chairwoman of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan, Dunyagozel Gulmanova, held a meeting with Peter van Rooij, Regional Director of the International Labour Organisation for Europe and Central Asia. This was reported on the website of the Mejlis. The parties discussed the development of Turkmenistan's cooperation with the United Nations and its structures, as well as interaction with the International Labour Organisation on a multilateral basis. The participants reviewed the results of the implementation of the Roadmap for Cooperation between the Government of Turkmenistan and the ILO for 2024-2025 and plans for joint work in 2026. The Turkmen side provided information on measures to modernise labour legislation, as well as laws in the field of human rights and social protection of children and the population, taking into account international standards and accumulated experience. Peter van Rooij noted the results of the work being done and expressed confidence in the further development of cooperation.
Future specialists from Balkanabat study the operation of oil wells
12.03.2026Students and teachers from the Balkanabat branch of the Yagshygeldi Kakayev International University of Oil and Gas held a practical training session at the Goturdepe field in the Balkan velayat, between the Cheleken and Barsagelmez areas. The aim was to consolidate theoretical knowledge in real production conditions, according to IIC. Practical training helps students develop professional skills and adapt more quickly to the work environment. The efficient operation of fields in the Western region, including the drilling of new wells and the modernisation of infrastructure, meets the country's domestic needs and increases its export potential in the global energy market. The rational use of natural resources remains a key factor in Turkmenistan's sustainable economic growth.
Turkmen karate fighters will test their strength at a tournament in Krakow
12.03.2026The Turkmenistan national traditional karate team will take part in international competitions in Krakow (Poland) from 10 to 17 March 2026, according to IIC. The delegation consists of 14 people — 11 athletes and a coaching staff led by Diyar Hojaev. The trip is organised with the support of the State Committee for Physical Culture and Sport and the National Traditional Karate Federation. The tournament will be an opportunity for Turkmen karatekas to test their strength and compete with athletes from other countries.
Turkmenistan increases petrol production
12.03.2026Gasoline production volumes are increasing in Turkmenistan. According to the results of January–February 2026, the plan has been fulfilled by 122.7%, reports AsmanNews. The growth in production is ensured by the work of oil refineries and a plant for the production of gasoline from natural gas in the Ahal velayat. Their efficiency is linked to the over-fulfilment of oil and gas production plans. In the first two months, the oil production plan for the State Concern ‘Türkmennebit’ was fulfilled by 107.3%, and oil refining by 107.1%. Diesel fuel production amounted to 106.4%, lubricating oils – 102.7%, liquefied gas – 119.7%, and natural and associated gas production – 106.7%. The report was presented by Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan Guvanch Agajanov at a government meeting, where the results of increased oil and gas production and the expansion of exports to world markets were also discussed.
The exhibition ‘Art in Two Perspectives’ has opened in Ashgabat
12.03.2026The Art Gallery of the Union of Artists of Turkmenistan has opened a joint exhibition by People's Artist Annadurdy Almamedov and painter Berdi Charyev, entitled ‘Art in Two Perspectives.’ The exhibition will run until 30 March, according to Infoportal. The exhibition brings together different artistic styles: Almamedov's lyrical landscapes and still lifes and Charyev's figurative and philosophical paintings, filled with symbolism and metaphors. Despite their differences, both artists address themes of love for their native land and human labour. The exhibition features panoramic views of Kopetdag, still lifes with bouquets of lilacs, poppies and roses, as well as architectural sketches of the old Turkmen city.
The President of Turkmenistan congratulated the President of the Portuguese Republic
12.03.2026President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov sent a congratulatory message to António José Seguro on the occasion of his inauguration as President of the Portuguese Republic. This was reported by the news agency TDH. In his message, the Head of State wished the President of Portugal good health, prosperity and success in his public activities for the development and prosperity of the country.
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