Culture
Friendship Festival brings peoples together ahead of LLDC 3 conference in ‘Avaza’
13.07.2025In anticipation of the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC 3), which will take place in August in the ‘Avaza’ National Tourist Zone, Turkmenistan is preparing a rich cultural programme. The key element of the programme will be the Festival of Friendship, aimed at strengthening international ties through art, according to the news website TerraNews. The idea of holding the festival was presented by the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, who announced it during a working trip to the Balkan velayat. The programme of the event includes performances by foreign artists and is dedicated to the themes of peace, sustainable development and international trust. The festival will serve as a symbolic accompaniment to the forum and an expression of Turkmenistan's commitment to cultural diplomacy and the development of inter-state dialogue.
Turkmen cuisine captivates guests at Expo 2025 in Japan
12.07.2025The Turkmen pavilion at the Expo 2025 international exhibition in Osaka has a restaurant that has become a real gastronomic attraction. Every day from 11:00 to 19:00, visitors can learn about the rich culinary traditions of Turkmenistan by tasting aromatic tea, fresh chorek bread, homemade meat dishes and exquisite oriental sweets. This was reported by the IIC. Decorated in the national style, the restaurant demonstrates the principles of true Turkmen hospitality. According to the organisers, it is not just a place to eat, but a cultural space where the country's centuries-old traditions are revealed through gastronomy. The Turkmen pavilion has already become one of the most visited among the Central Asian participants in the exhibition. Guests note not only the original flavours of the dishes, but also the special friendly atmosphere characteristic of Turkmen culture. The restaurant is open every day, offering Expo 2025 visitors a unique opportunity to take a gastronomic journey to Turkmenistan without leaving the exhibition grounds in Osaka.
The Embassy of Turkmenistan took part in the Asian Culture Festival in Ploiesti
10.07.2025On 9 July this year, the Palace of Culture in Ploiesti hosted the Asian Culture Festival, organised by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Prahova County with the support of the diplomatic missions of Turkmenistan, Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Japan, the Republic of Korea and the Philippines. This was reported by the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The event was attended by representatives of local authorities, heads of foreign diplomatic missions, public figures, residents of Prahova and journalists. In their speeches, the President of the Prahova Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Aurelian Gogulescu, and other participants emphasised the importance of cultural exchange and strengthening international cooperation. Festival guests were able to see a demonstration of traditional Asian costumes reflecting the ethnic diversity of the participating countries. As part of the business programme, the ambassadors met with representatives of the Prahova administration to discuss prospects for the development of bilateral relations. The Turkmen exhibition included national costumes, carpets, handicrafts, musical instruments, works of the classic Turkmen writer Magtymguly Pyragy, as well as books by the President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov and the Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. The festival concluded with a tasting of Asian cuisine.
American country rock band of Jessica Lynn triumphantly performed in Ashgabat
07.07.2025The ‘Türkmenistan’ cinema and concert hall hosted a sold-out concert by American country rock singer Jessica Lynn, organised with the support of the US Embassy in Turkmenistan and the country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This was reported by the online publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. Before the performance, the musicians held a press conference where Jessica talked about her creative career. She noted that although she grew up in New York, where country music is not the most popular genre, her father instilled in her a love for this music. In its 10 years of existence, the band has performed in 20 countries, and Turkmenistan has become a new and warm discovery for them, particularly impressing them with the cleanliness and beauty of Ashgabat. A special moment of the evening was Jessica's reunion with her student, Turkmen musician Dovran Shammyev, who trained at her online academy. Their joint performance of a medley of hits by Duffy, Amy Winehouse and Ray Charles was met with thunderous applause from the audience. The concert turned into a real celebration, with the audience dancing in the aisles and Jessica keeping up their energetic mood by accompanying them on the drums. The evening ended with a joint performance with the famous Turkmen jazz singer Maysa Niyazova, who performed Shania Twain's hit song. Jessica Lynn's concert was a highlight of Turkmenistan's cultural life, strengthening the creative ties between the two countries.
Turkmenistan will host archaeological exhibition in Rome
05.07.2025On 4 July, Deputy Chairwoman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan Bahar Seyidova reported on preparations for a large-scale archaeological exhibition entitled ‘The Flourishing of Cultures: The Bronze Age Margiana and the Parthian Kingdom. Archaeological Discoveries in Turkmenistan’ during a government meeting. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. The initiative to organise the exhibition was put forward by the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, during the First ‘Central Asia – Italy’ Summit held in Astana. In addition, the Deputy Prime Minister said that practical steps are currently being taken in Turkmenistan to modernise museums in line with contemporary requirements. For example, the largest museums have introduced a digital platform called ‘Virtual Museum’, which allows visitors to take remote tours and view exhibits online. The Museum of History and Local Lore in the city of Arkadag has introduced a QR code system that allows visitors to obtain information about the exhibits directly from their mobile devices. After listening to the report, the Head of State emphasised that museums play a key role in preserving, studying and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Turkmenistan internationally. In this regard, the Deputy Prime Minister was instructed to continue work on identifying and scientifically analysing national values with a view to preserving them for future generations.
UNESCO announces the photo contest ‘Youth Eyes on the Silk Roads’
03.07.2025UNESCO invites talented young people from around the world to participate in the 2025 International Photo Contest ‘Youth Eyes on the Silk Roads’. This year's theme is the role of women as guardians of the intangible heritage of this legendary route. This was reported by the IIC. Participants are invited to capture women who preserve traditional crafts such as weaving, embroidery, ceramics, pottery and other types of art. Other important subjects include traditional dances, music, oral creativity, culinary traditions and even ancient sports passed down from generation to generation. Special attention will be paid to women who contribute to cultural exchange: teachers, artists, scientists and organisers of festivals that bring different peoples together. Portraits that reveal the cultural identity, wisdom and joy of life of women from different regions of the Silk Road are welcome. Entries will be accepted until 20 July 2025.
A Russian-Turkmen concert will be held in Turkmenistan to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory Day
30.06.2025On 15 August, a Russian-Turkmen concert will be held in the Rachmaninov Hall of the Moscow Conservatory, dedicated to the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War and the International Year of Peace and Trust. The event is organised by the Embassy of Turkmenistan in the Russian Federation in conjunction with the ‘Sounds of the Dutar’ Foundation as part of the XIX International Festival ‘Gathering of Friends.’ This was reported by the online publication Turkmenportal. The concert was inspired by the book ‘Music of Peace, Music of Friendship and Brotherhood’ by the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, which reveals the richness of Turkmen musical art. Renowned Turkmen performers, whose mastery has been recognised worldwide, will come to Moscow. In addition to the musical programme, guests will be treated to art and book exhibitions showcasing the diversity of Turkmen culture. Last year, the same hall hosted a successful concert dedicated to the 300th anniversary of Magtymguly Pyragy, confirming the strong cultural ties between Russia and Turkmenistan.
Turkish pop star Simge Sagin performed in Arkadag
30.06.2025The celebrations marking the second anniversary of the ‘smart’ Turkmen city of Arkadag were graced by a spectacular performance by Turkish pop star Simge Sagin, which was a real treat for her fans. This was reported by IIC. Simge Sagin is one of the most sought-after performers on the contemporary Turkish pop scene. Her hits, including such well-known songs as ‘Miş Miş’, ‘Yankı’ and ‘Ben Bazen’, have won popularity among millions of listeners. The singer's unique musical style, which combines energetic dance-pop arrangements and emotional vocals, creates a special atmosphere at each of her performances. The singer has received numerous prestigious music awards, including the ‘Altın Kelebek’ Award. Her work has been recognised both in Turkey and abroad. Simge Sagin's performance in Arkadag was an important cultural event and attracted great interest from the Turkmen public.
Uzbek star Jasurbek Mavlonov performed at the celebration of Arkadag's anniversary
30.06.2025Popular Uzbek singer Jasurbek Mavlonov arrived in Ashgabat on a creative visit to take part in the celebrations marking the second anniversary of the city of Arkadag. His performance was one of the highlights of the holiday, demonstrating the strong cultural ties between Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. This was reported by IIC. J. Mavlonov is one of the most recognisable performers in Central Asia, whose work, combining modern rhythms with folk motifs, has won the love of millions of listeners. His soulful vocals and heartfelt compositions in the genres of pop music, folk and dance electronica create a special, unique atmosphere that is always enjoyed by audiences. The artist's repertoire includes rousing hits and lyrical, touching compositions. The Uzbek artist's bright and original performance gave the residents and guests of Arkadag unforgettable emotions, confirming once again that art unites peoples.
Turkmenistan widely celebrated Culture and Art Workers' Day
28.06.2025On 27 June, Turkmenistan celebrated the Day of Workers of Culture and Art and the poetry of Magtymguly Pyragy. The week of culture dedicated to this date ended with a gala concert of masters of the arts in the ‘Türkmeniň ak öýi’ building in the ‘Nowruz ýaýlasy’ valley of the Ak Bugday etrap of the Ahal velayat, according to the state news agency TDH. Throughout the week, exhibitions, concerts, theatre performances, conferences, seminars and creative evenings were held in different parts of the country. Both stage artists and young representatives of the cultural sphere took part in them. Special attention was paid to the creative legacy of the great poet and humanist Magtymguly Pyragy. At the foot of the monument built in Ashgabat, a flower-laying ceremony was held with the participation of members of the Mejlis, representatives of public associations, the media and students. The central event was a festive concert featuring performances by folk and distinguished artists, folklore and dance groups. A special place in the programme was given to compositions based on poems by Magtymguly Pyragy and the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, as well as the traditional dance kushtdepdi, included in the UNESCO list of intangible cultural heritage.
Culture Week continues to reveal the richness of Turkmenistan's heritage
25.06.2025The third day of Culture Week, dedicated to Culture and Art Workers' Day and the poetry of Magtymguly Pyragy, was held in the spirit of promoting Turkmenistan's national heritage and policy of neutrality. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. A methodological conference was held at the Central Library of the Ak Bugday etrap, where experts discussed the implementation of the library development programme for 2025-2029. The main focus was on digitalisation, the formation of modern collections and increasing reader activity. A conference on peace and trust was held at the Palace of Culture in Yzgant, attended by media representatives. Participants emphasized the role of media in strengthening public harmony and international relations, and discussed the importance of cultural and public diplomacy. A festive concert was held in the city of Anau with the participation of artists from the Balkan and Dashoguz velayats, reflecting the richness of regional traditions and the continuity of Turkmen culture. The day ended with a performance of the opera ‘Shasenem and Garyp’ at the Turkmen National Music and Drama Theatre, which emphasised the values of honour, love and loyalty. The theatre continues to preserve and promote the country's cultural heritage. The events of the third day highlight the role of culture and art in the social and state life of Turkmenistan.
An international film crew is preparing a feature on the jewellery art of Turkmenistan
25.06.2025As part of a joint project between Russian film company ‘Vechnyy Zov’ and Serbian television channel Balkan Trip TV, a creative visit took place to the State Academy of Arts of Turkmenistan. An international film crew worked on a documentary about the cultural heritage and artistic traditions of the Turkmen people. This was reported by the online publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. Special attention was paid to the ancient art of Turkmen zerger (jewellers), which is carefully preserved and passed on to new generations. Guests were able to observe how students of the Academy, under the guidance of experienced masters, master traditional techniques: chasing, silver blackening and the art of inlaying. A meaningful discussion on the peculiarities of national jewellery art took place in the museum of the art centre, where unique methods of working with metals, tools and materials were demonstrated. The highlight of the visit was a practical master class, during which the film crew learned about the symbolic meaning of traditional jewellery – ‘gulyaka’, ‘tumar’ and ‘bilezik’. Balkan Trip TV, known for its informative programmes on the culture of different peoples, plans to show the world the uniqueness of Turkmen jewellery art. This project is a new step in strengthening Turkmenistan's cultural ties with the international community.
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