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Artificial intelligence in Turkmenistan's digital development strategy
06.03.2026The introduction of modern digital technologies and scientific and technical solutions is an important condition for the development of Turkmenistan and improving the quality of life of the population. The development of science and technology remains one of the priority areas of the country's state policy, according to the online publication ‘Business Turkmenistan’. In this context, the ‘Concept for the Development of the Digital Economy of Turkmenistan for 2026–2028’ is being implemented, aimed at developing digital infrastructure, improving the efficiency of public administration and the competitiveness of the economy. The programme provides for the introduction of advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, blockchain, fintech and cloud computing. Artificial intelligence is a field of computer science that creates systems capable of analysing data, learning and making decisions based on complex algorithms. One of the key areas of AI is machine learning, which allows systems to improve based on the processing of large data sets. Today, artificial intelligence technologies are actively used in various fields. In logistics, they help predict demand, optimise routes and reduce environmental impact. In business and industry, AI is used for data analysis, improving management efficiency, quality control and predictive equipment maintenance. In healthcare, machine learning technologies help analyse medical data, improve diagnostics and develop new treatments. They are also used in biomedicine to search for new drugs and create antibodies. In the financial sector, AI is used to analyse risks, detect fraud and evaluate investment opportunities.
The Turkmen National Equestrian Games Group ‘Galkynysh’ performed in Baku
06.03.2026On 4 March, a vibrant cultural evening featuring the Turkmen National Equestrian Games Group ‘Galkynysh’ took place at the ‘Bina’ Equestrian Centre in Baku. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The group, which received the highest award at the International Circus Festival in Monte Carlo in 2025, performed its programme for the Azerbaijani public for the first time, demonstrating the skills of horsemen, acrobatic tricks and synchronised movements. The evening was also graced by performances by artists from the State Circus of Turkmenistan and the State Equestrian Circus named after Gorogly in the city of Arkadag with vivid acrobatic numbers reflecting national traditions and modern achievements of Turkmen art. The culmination was the appearance of horsemen with the flags of Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan, symbolising the strengthening of cultural and humanitarian cooperation between the countries. The event made an important contribution to the promotion of Turkmen cultural heritage abroad.
The Mejlis of Turkmenistan and the UN discussed international cooperation
04.03.2026On 3 March, members of the Turkmenistan Mejlis held a meeting with Matilda Bogner, Head of the Regional Office of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights in Central Asia. This was reported by the press service of the Turkmenistan Mejlis. The parties discussed Turkmenistan's international initiatives, its status of permanent neutrality, and cooperation with the UN. The Turkmen side emphasised the importance of cooperation with the relevant structures of the Organisation in order to fulfil its obligations in the field of human rights and improve national legislation. Particular attention was paid to the work of the UN regional office in strengthening partnerships with Central Asian countries and implementing human rights programmes. Matilda Bogner gave a positive assessment of the current cooperation and expressed her readiness to further develop it, including on issues of gender equality and the protection of the rights of persons with disabilities.
Turkmenistan has increased the number of border crossings for the evacuation of foreigners from Iran
04.03.2026Turkmenistan has opened additional border crossings for the evacuation of foreign citizens from Iran. This was reported by the IIC with reference to the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Turkmenistan. According to published data, the following checkpoints are available for the evacuation of citizens of the Russian Federation: — Serahs (previously operational); — Artyk – Lutfabad; — Gaudan – Bajgiran; — Akyayla – Incheburun; — Altyn Asyr – Incheburun. It is noted that Turkmenistan already has experience in conducting such humanitarian operations. Last summer, against the backdrop of the previous escalation of the situation around Iran, the Turkmen side ensured the safe transit of more than 4,000 foreign citizens. At that time, representatives of 52 states appealed to the Turkmen authorities with a request to evacuate their compatriots.
Russia and Uzbekistan coordinate evacuation of citizens via Turkmenistan
04.03.2026Turkmenistan has become a key transit hub for Russian and Uzbek citizens leaving Iran amid the escalating situation in the region. Officials from the diplomatic departments of both countries have announced coordinated measures to organise a land corridor, according to IIC. With air travel restricted, Turkmenistan has become a strategic humanitarian hub, ensuring the safe and unhindered transit of foreign citizens through its territory. The Embassy of the Russian Federation in Iran has developed a procedure for citizens who are unable to use direct flights to leave by car. Border crossing is organised through the Serahs checkpoint. To coordinate transit with the Turkmen side, Russians must send a package of documents in advance to the Russian diplomatic mission in Iran. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan has ensured close cooperation between the embassy in Ashgabat and the authorised bodies of Turkmenistan. Employees of the Uzbek diplomatic mission are organising a meeting with compatriots directly at the border in the city of Serahs. The embassy's motor transport in Ashgabat is being used to ensure prompt and safe transit.
Turkmenistan emphasised the role of women in strengthening society
03.03.2026A solemn conference entitled ‘Ene hüwdüsi iň kämil eser’ was held at the Capital's Centre for Public Organisations to mark International Women's Day. The event was organised jointly by the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, the Mejlis of Turkmenistan, the Ministry of Culture of Turkmenistan, the Secretariat of the National Commission of Turkmenistan for UNESCO and the Central Council of the Union of Women of Turkmenistan as part of the year ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’. This was reported by the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. During the conference, speeches were made on the importance of women's labour, the development of national handicrafts in the modern era and issues of preserving spiritual traditions. The ceremony continued with a song and music programme featuring artists from across the country. The compositions performed reflected the themes of continuity of craft traditions, raising children and strengthening family values. The speakers emphasised that women in Turkmenistan are traditionally held in high esteem, and their contribution to raising the younger generation and preserving national customs is highly valued. The role of maternal love, kindness and patience in shaping the harmonious personality of young people was noted. It was also emphasised that the distinctive traditions of the people are being further developed at the present stage, including in matters of raising children in the national spirit. Particular attention was paid to the importance of the mother's lullaby as an important foundation for a prosperous future. It was noted that the country is consistently creating conditions for women's employment, self-realisation and education. The speeches highlighted the role of mothers in strengthening national unity, social cohesion and raising young people in the spirit of patriotism and respect for family values.
Car owners in Turkmenistan now can pay fines more easily
03.03.2026In Turkmenistan, the capabilities of the Ministry of Internal Affairs' ‘Galkan Tölеg’ mobile application have been expanded, allowing for faster and more convenient payment of fines. This was reported by IIC. The programme allows users to register vehicles and quickly pay traffic fines using their bank cards by entering the number of the fine. It is noted that after the payment is made, the information about the fine is automatically deleted from the database, which simplifies the procedure for car owners. The app is available for download on mobile devices and is designed to increase the convenience and speed of payments.
Ashgabat to host international exhibition ‘Cooperation and Development’
02.03.2026From 2 to 4 April, Ashgabat will host the International Exhibition ‘Cooperation and Development’. The event is organised by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan in cooperation with the Turkish company ‘Net Organization’, according to the press service of the CCI of Turkmenistan. The exhibition aims to expand international cooperation, exchange experience and attract investment. The exhibition will present solutions in the fields of digitalisation, ‘green’ technologies, industry and logistics. Special attention will be paid to issues related to the growth of the export potential of Turkmen manufacturers and their entry into new markets. The forum will include business meetings and project presentations, which are expected to contribute to the development of partnerships and the strengthening of the country's economic position.
Turkmen customs officials took part in a global meeting of the World Customs Organisation
27.02.2026Employees of the Training Centre of the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan took part in the 21st Global Meeting of Regional Structures of the World Customs Organisation, held on 23–24 February at the organisation's headquarters in Brussels. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The event was held in a hybrid format. Participants discussed the exchange of best practices between regional training and expert centres, as well as current mechanisms for strengthening the capacity of customs administrations. Among the priority topics were the development of e-learning, the introduction of digital solutions and the expansion of the use of distance learning for specialists.
Turkmenistan's Ambassador discussed AI and cybersecurity with European partners
26.02.2026Sapar Palvanov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to Belgium, took part in the first session of the expert series ‘The Talk,’ organised by the ‘Norm’ platform in conjunction with ‘Diplomatic World’ and supported by ‘Cardo Brussels.’ This was reported by the IIC. Diplomats, representatives of European institutions and the business community took part in the discussion. The discussion focused on digitalisation, the development of artificial intelligence and the adaptation of national legislation to new technologies, with an emphasis on data protection and cybersecurity. The Turkmen side emphasised the modernisation of the legal framework, the development of electronic public services and the readiness to implement international practices. The Ambassador expressed interest in expanding cooperation with Europe in the field of digital transformation. On the same day, S. Palvanov, together with the Ambassadors of Central Asian countries and Mongolia, met with Belgian MEP Pascal Arimont.
The Consul General of Turkmenistan in Istanbul met with the Rector of Medipol University
26.02.2026A meeting between Consul General Ovezgeldi Jumanazarov and Rector of Medipol University Bahadir Kurshat Gunturk was held at the Consulate General of Turkmenistan in Istanbul. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The parties discussed prospects for cooperation in the fields of higher education, science and medicine, focusing on the development of academic contacts and the exchange of experience. The interlocutors also discussed the creation of favourable conditions for Turkmen students to study in Turkey, the expansion of scholarship programmes, academic mobility and joint scientific projects. The importance of concluding relevant agreements for the long-term and systematic development of the partnership was noted.
The Permanent Representative of Turkmenistan to IRENA has assumed his duties
26.02.2026On 24 February, in Abu Dhabi, Bayram Bayramov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to the UAE, presented his credentials to Francesco La Camera, Director-General of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. From that moment on, the Turkmen diplomat officially took office as the Permanent Representative of Turkmenistan to the organisation. After the ceremony, negotiations were held, during which the parties discussed the prospects for bilateral cooperation. The focus was on joint initiatives for the production of ‘green’ hydrogen and the introduction of renewable energy technologies into Turkmenistan's energy system. Following the meeting, both sides confirmed their readiness to continue strategic dialogue, emphasising the importance of Turkmenistan for regional energy security and the development of international environmental diplomacy.
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