Society
The UNDP Permanent Representative in Turkmenistan visited the Lebap velayat
28.10.2025UNDP Resident Representative in Turkmenistan Narine Sahakyan and Deputy Resident Representative Tomica Paovic made a working visit to Lebap velayat. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. During the visit, they took part in a marathon dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the UN and held a series of meetings with local partners. N. Sahakyan noted that marathons in five velayats of the country symbolise solidarity and commitment to the principles of peace, healthy lifestyles and sustainable development. During a meeting with the Deputy Governor of Lebap velayat, Shohrat Hojanazarov, they discussed cooperation on the UNDP and GEF project aimed at preserving land resources and ecosystems in the Aral Sea basin. N. Sahakyan also met with project participants – women entrepreneurs, including an initiative group of beekeepers developing sustainable sources of income in the context of climate change. In addition, the UNDP Permanent Representative took part in the award ceremony for the ‘Green Ideas: Women and Climate’ competition, which promotes innovative business projects in the Lebap and Dashoguz velayats. The second phase of the ‘Future Skills Academy’ initiative was launched in Turkmenabat as part of a regional project to support sustainable communities, funded by the Government of Japan. Participants in the event learned about the academy's programme, training and employment opportunities, and took part in the ‘Connect and Impress’ job fair.
The fifth meeting of the international association ‘Türkmen Alabaý Itleri’ was held in Ashgabat
27.10.2025The fifth meeting of the International Association ‘Türkmen Alabaý Itleri’ was held in Ashgabat, timed to coincide with the Turkmen Alabay Festival. The forum became a platform for discussing issues related to the promotion, breeding and preservation of this national breed, according to the state news agency TDH. The event was attended by representatives of relevant departments, scientists, dog breeders, members of the Association and foreign dog breeders. Particular attention was paid to the role of the Turkmen Alabay as part of the country's cultural heritage, its history, breed characteristics and international cooperation. The prospects of including the tradition of breeding Alabay dogs in the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage, expanding the exchange of experience and preserving the purity of the breed were discussed. The forum included an exhibition of decorative and applied arts dedicated to Alabay dogs, as well as an award ceremony for leading dog breeders. Speeches by participants from Russia, China, the United States and Turkey highlighted the global interest in Turkmen Alabay dogs and the importance of preserving national dog breeding traditions. The honorary titles ‘Türkmenistanyň halk itşynasy’ (‘National dog breeder of Turkmenistan’) and ‘Türkmenistanyň at gazanan itşynasy’ (‘Honored dog breeder of Turkmenistan’) have been established, the ‘Ýylyň türkmen edermen alabaýy’ (‘Turkmen Brave Alabay of the Year’) competition is held, and the magazine ‘Türkmeniň nusgalyk alabaýy’ (‘Turkmen Classic Alabay’) is published.
New issue of the magazine ‘Foreign Policy and Diplomacy of Turkmenistan’ released
27.10.2025A new issue of the magazine ‘Foreign Policy and Diplomacy of Turkmenistan’ has been published in Turkmen, Russian and English, covering key events in the country's foreign policy in the third quarter of 2025, according to the news website Asmannews. The issue provides detailed coverage of the visit of the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov to Azerbaijan on 16–17 July, his meetings with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and other officials, as well as his visit to the cities of Fizuli and Shusha. Special attention is paid to the trilateral summit between Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan on 22 August in the ‘Avaza’ National Tourist Zone and the joint declaration adopted at its conclusion. The Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries, attended by representatives of more than 100 countries and 50 international organisations, and the adoption of the Awaza Political Declaration are also covered. In September, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov addressed the 80th session of the UN General Assembly in New York, emphasising the country's readiness for practical cooperation and strengthening stability. Turkmenistan continues to actively participate in SCO summits, including the meeting in Tianjin, where negotiations took place with Chinese leaders. The magazine also touches on topics such as Turkmenistan's neutrality, cooperation with Pakistan and Croatia, the integration of Central and South Asia, issues of diplomatic protocol, and the harmonisation of national legislation with international law. The section ‘Chronicle of Diplomatic Life’ summarises the results of the third quarter of 2025.
An event was held in Ashgabat to mark the Indian holiday
20.10.2025A festive event was held at the ‘Yyldyz’ Hotel in Ashgabat to mark Diwali, the Indian Festival of Lights, organised by the Indian Embassy in Turkmenistan. This was reported by the Orient news agency. The festival, symbolising the victory of light over darkness and good over evil, was marked by the lighting of the traditional Diya lamp, floral decorations and a vibrant cultural programme. Indian Ambassador to Turkmenistan Bandaru Wilsonbabu thanked Turkmenistan for its hospitality and recalled recent high-level contacts, including meetings between the leaders of India and Turkmenistan at the SCO summit. The Diplomat emphasised the importance of Turkmenistan in the region and expressed confidence in the further strengthening of bilateral cooperation. Guests at the event enjoyed Indian dances, performances by Turkmen artists with Indian hits, traditional dishes and the atmosphere of Bollywood. The event demonstrated not only the strategic partnership, but also the deep cultural ties between the countries, which are strengthened through the exchange of traditions, art and spiritual values.
The Embassy of Turkmenistan held a formal reception in Moscow
19.10.2025On 17 October, the Embassy of Turkmenistan in the Russian Federation held a formal reception dedicated to the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's permanent neutrality, the International Year of Peace and Trust, the 80th anniversary of the UN, and the conclusion of the ‘UN Friendship Games – 80’ tournament. This was reported by the press service of the Turkmen diplomatic mission. The event was organised by the Embassy of Turkmenistan and the UN Information Centre in Moscow. Among the participants were representatives of the Russian Foreign Ministry, diplomats, UN staff, public and scientific figures, journalists and tournament participants. Esen Aydogdyev, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to the Russian Federation, emphasised that the country, following the principles of neutrality, actively contributes to the strengthening of peace and cooperation. The ‘UN Friendship Games – 80’, held from 4 August to 12 October, brought together teams from diplomatic missions, universities and sports schools. The tournament became a symbol of friendship and sporting unity. Russian Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Sergey Vershinin noted the high level of organisation and atmosphere of mutual understanding. The speakers emphasised Turkmenistan's contribution to the development of ‘sports diplomacy’ and the promotion of the ideas of neutrality. A ceremony was held to award the winners, a video presentation about the tournament, a concert, and a tasting of Turkmen cuisine.
Turkmenistan took part in the XXVII General Assembly of the Caspian States
17.10.2025Representatives of Turkmenistan, together with delegations from Kazakhstan, Russia, Azerbaijan and Iran, took part in the 27th General Assembly of Universities and Research Centres of the Caspian Countries, held in Atyrau (Kazakhstan). This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. The forum brought together rectors, scientists and experts to discuss the development of science, education, ecology and innovation in the region. Kayrat Nurtayev, Deputy Akim of the Atyrau Region, and invited guests delivered welcoming speeches, and a message from Sayasat Nurbek, Minister of Science and Higher Education of Kazakhstan, was read out. Participants discussed the protection of the Caspian Sea ecosystem and the prospects for joint scientific projects. Julie Rançon, Associate Professor at the University of Poitiers (France), emphasised the international significance of the Assembly as a platform for strengthening cooperation. The event culminated in the signing of memoranda between universities and the presentation of new initiatives aimed at sustainable development and the integration of science and education in the Caspian region.
The city of Arkadag was awarded a gold medal by the EAPO
17.10.2025The city of Arkadag has been awarded the V.I. Blinnikov Gold Medal by the Eurasian Patent Office (EAPO) — a high award for achievements in the field of innovative development. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. The ceremony was attended by representatives of the 47th meeting of the EAPO Administrative Council who arrived in Turkmenistan. The guests familiarised themselves with the architecture and technological features of the ‘smart’ city, created on the initiative of the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. It was noted that Arkadag has become a model for the implementation of advanced urban planning solutions and a symbol of state policy aimed at improving the quality of life of the population. EAPO President G. Ivliev emphasised that the numerous awards and patents received by the city confirm its status as an innovation centre. The gold medal was accepted by the Chairman of the State Committee for the Construction of Arkadag City, Deryageldi Orazov. The participants in the ceremony noted Turkmenistan's contribution to the development of the patent system and intellectual property, as well as the strengthening of international cooperation in this area. The event concluded with an address to the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov.
The opening of the ‘Turkmenistan Corner’ took place at the National Library of Azerbaijan
17.10.2025The National Library of the Republic of Azerbaijan has officially opened a ‘Turkmenistan Corner’ as part of the recently concluded Days of Turkmenistan Culture. This was reported by IIC Turkmenistan. The new centre symbolises the strengthening of cultural cooperation between the two countries and will become a permanent platform for introducing the Azerbaijani audience to the literary, scientific and cultural heritage of Turkmenistan. On the opening day, a round table was also held with the participation of representatives of science and culture from both countries. Participants discussed ways to develop cultural and educational ties, including academic exchanges, joint research and translations of literary works. The event highlighted the importance of the historical and spiritual unity of the Turkic peoples and was a step towards further deepening the humanitarian dialogue between Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan. The opening of the ‘Turkmenistan Corner’ consolidated the results of the Culture Days, turning a temporary exchange format into a permanent source of knowledge about the country and its traditions.
Turkmenistan took part in an international conference in Bucharest
16.10.2025A delegation from Turkmenistan took part in the Regional Ministerial Conference on ending violence against children, which was held on 13–14 October in Bucharest. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The delegation was led by the Deputy Minister of Labour and Social Protection; and included representatives from the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Ministry of Education and UNICEF in Turkmenistan. The conference was organised by the Romanian Ministry of Labour, Family, Youth and Social Solidarity in conjunction with UNICEF and the UN Secretary-General's Special Representative on Violence against Children. Turkmenistan presented its key achievements: the implementation of the National Action Plan on Children's Rights for 2023-2028, the development of inter-agency cooperation, and the creation of comprehensive family support and child-friendly justice services. The Head of delegation emphasised that protecting children is a state responsibility and an investment in a secure future for society, and that international partnerships help to improve legislation and social programmes.
A series of events were held in Turkmenistan as part of Italian Language Week
15.10.2025The International University for the Humanities and Development held a series of events as part of Italian Language Week under the slogan ‘Italofonia: Language Beyond Borders.’ This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The initiative aims to promote the Italian language and culture, as well as to develop educational cooperation between Turkmenistan and Italy. The week was organised with the support of the Italian Embassy and brought together diplomats, teachers, students and renowned Italian professors. Maria Giovanna Farci and Francesco Giommoni gave lectures to participants, and an exhibition dedicated to Italian culture and literature was opened. The programme included discussions on international cooperation, academic exchanges, seminars and specialised Italian language courses. The project provided an opportunity for young Turkmen to learn more about the history, art, cinema and other aspects of Italian heritage. The university also employs an Italian professor.
Turkmenistan took part in the closing ceremony of EXPO 2025 in Osaka
14.10.2025A delegation from Turkmenistan, under the headship of Minister of Trade and Foreign Economic Relations Nazar Agahanov, took part in the closing ceremony of the World Expo 2025, which was held on 13 October in Osaka. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The ceremony was attended by members of the Japanese imperial family, representatives of the government and international organisations, heads of diplomatic missions and delegations of participating countries. Secretary General of the Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition, H. Ishige noted the successful completion of the exhibition and thanked all countries for their participation. After the flag was raised and the anthem was played, speeches were made by Japanese Minister for EXPO 2025 Yoshitaka, Chairman of the Japan Association of the World Exposition 2025 Masakazu, and Osaka Prefecture Governor Yoshimura, who emphasised that the exhibition had made the city one of the centres of world tourism. Crown Prince Akishino and Prime Minister Ishiba also delivered speeches. The ceremony included video clips about EXPO events and speeches by cultural figures. At the end of the ceremony, the World Exhibition flag was solemnly handed over to the delegation of Saudi Arabia, the host country of EXPO 2030 in Riyadh.
The Turkmenistan pavilion was among the three most popular exhibits at the exhibition in Japan
14.10.2025The EXPO 2025 World Exhibition, held under the slogan ‘Designing future society for our lives,’ has come to an end in Osaka. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. Over the course of six months, the event became a platform for international cooperation and innovation, bringing together more than 150 countries. The National Pavilion of Turkmenistan was among the three most popular exhibits at the exhibition. Under the theme ‘Inspiring a Better Tomorrow,’ it presented the country's cultural heritage, traditions and modern achievements, including the Arkadag ‘smart’ city project. Over 2 million people visited the pavilion during the exhibition. EXPO 2025 was held from 13 April to 13 October on Yumeshima Island, attracting around 28 million visitors from all over the world.
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