Society
Turkmenistan will be represented at the 33rd International Book Fair in Minsk
13.03.2026Turkmenistan will be represented at the 33rd International Book Fair, which will be held from 17 to 22 March in Minsk. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. This year, about 500 exhibitors from 23 countries will take part. On 20 March, Turkmenistan Day will be held on the central stage as part of the CIS thematic days, which will be held jointly with Uzbekistan Day. Each country will be provided with a separate platform for presenting national literature and new releases. The central exhibition is dedicated to literary and publishing projects of the CIS countries and cultural interaction between the Commonwealth states. The forum's programme includes an international symposium entitled ‘The Writer and Time’, meetings between authors and readers, presentations of new publications, autograph sessions and discussions between publishers. Separate areas will be dedicated to children's literature, educational projects and digital initiatives in book publishing.
Turkmenistan and China discuss the role of women in society and innovation
13.03.2026The ‘Archabil’ Hotel in Ashgabat hosted a round table discussion entitled ‘Turkmenistan–China: Women and Society,’ organised by the Chinese Embassy and dedicated to the role of women in the economies and cultures of both countries. This was reported by the news website Asmannews. Zhong Hua, Chargé d'Affaires, presented statistics on the modern role of women in China: the average life expectancy is 80 years, 46% of scientific and technical personnel are women, and more than half of Internet entrepreneurs are female. Particular attention was paid to last year's visit to China by a Turkmen delegation led by Oguljahan Atabayeva, which strengthened cooperation in protecting children's rights and supporting motherhood. China plans to train 50,000 women and launch 1,000 local social projects over the next five years. Oguljennet Berdiliyeva, Chairwoman of the Women's Union of Turkmenistan, gave a response speech, and the subsequent dinner turned into an exchange of success stories. The participants discussed a wide range of topics, from preserving national embroidery to achievements in aviation. Turkmen women scientists, teachers and businesswomen demonstrated a harmonious combination of innovation and national values.
Turkmenistan discusses measures to protect agricultural landscapes from drought
13.03.2026An expert meeting on the adaptation of agro-ecological landscapes to arid conditions was held in Ashgabat with the support of the national branch of the Regional Environmental Centre for Central Asia (CAREC). This was reported by the IIC. Scientists from the National Institute of Deserts, specialists from the International Scientific and Technological Park of the Academy of Sciences, ecologists and representatives of international organisations took part in the discussion. The main focus was on finding practical solutions to reduce damage to agriculture and the environment caused by lack of rainfall. International experts, including representatives of the World Bank and the Water Institute, noted the transboundary nature of climate risks in the region. Given the dependence of economies on the water resources of large rivers such as the Amu Darya, it is important to plan investments in vulnerable sectors accurately and develop early warning systems based on satellite data. The need for long-term planning, taking into account rising average temperatures and changes in the hydrological regime, was discussed separately. The meeting participants proposed measures to modernise agricultural production and water use: the introduction of digital solutions in the water sector, the development of greenhouse vegetable growing and the breeding of drought-resistant crop varieties. The combination of traditional methods of folk hydrotechnics, including ‘underground irrigation,’ with the modernisation of water infrastructure was also considered. Following the meeting, proposals were prepared for further cross-sectoral cooperation within the framework of regional programmes. Experts emphasised that combining national efforts with international initiatives is an important condition for fulfilling the country's climate commitments and ensuring the sustainable development of Turkmenistan's agro-industrial complex.
Turkmenistan and China discuss the role of women in society and innovation
12.03.2026The ‘Archabil’ Hotel in Ashgabat hosted a round table discussion entitled ‘Turkmenistan–China: Women and Society,’ organised by the Chinese Embassy and dedicated to the role of women in the economies and cultures of both countries. This was reported by the news website Asmannews. Zhong Hua, Chargé d'Affaires, presented statistics on the modern role of women in China: the average life expectancy is 80 years, 46% of scientific and technical personnel are women, and more than half of Internet entrepreneurs are female. Particular attention was paid to last year's visit to China by a Turkmen delegation led by Oguljahan Atabayeva, which strengthened cooperation in protecting children's rights and supporting motherhood. China plans to train 50,000 women and launch 1,000 local social projects over the next five years. Oguljennet Berdiliyeva, Chairwoman of the Women's Union of Turkmenistan, gave a response speech, and the subsequent dinner turned into an exchange of success stories. The participants discussed a wide range of topics, from preserving national embroidery to achievements in aviation. Turkmen women scientists, teachers and businesswomen demonstrated a harmonious combination of innovation and national values.
Turkmenistan discusses measures to protect agricultural landscapes from drought
12.03.2026An expert meeting on the adaptation of agro-ecological landscapes to arid conditions was held in Ashgabat with the support of the national branch of the Regional Environmental Centre for Central Asia (CAREC). This was reported by the IIC. Scientists from the National Institute of Deserts, specialists from the International Scientific and Technological Park of the Academy of Sciences, ecologists and representatives of international organisations took part in the discussion. The main focus was on finding practical solutions to reduce damage to agriculture and the environment caused by lack of rainfall. International experts, including representatives of the World Bank and the Water Institute, noted the transboundary nature of climate risks in the region. Given the dependence of economies on the water resources of large rivers such as the Amu Darya, it is important to plan investments in vulnerable sectors accurately and develop early warning systems based on satellite data. The need for long-term planning, taking into account rising average temperatures and changes in the hydrological regime, was discussed separately. The meeting participants proposed measures to modernise agricultural production and water use: the introduction of digital solutions in the water sector, the development of greenhouse vegetable growing and the breeding of drought-resistant crop varieties. The combination of traditional methods of folk hydrotechnics, including ‘underground irrigation,’ with the modernisation of water infrastructure was also considered. Following the meeting, proposals were prepared for further cross-sectoral cooperation within the framework of regional programmes. Experts emphasised that combining national efforts with international initiatives is an important condition for fulfilling the country's climate commitments and ensuring the sustainable development of Turkmenistan's agro-industrial complex.
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.
Delegates from Turkmenistan are invited to attend the ‘RES 2026 EXPO’ exhibition in Astana
12.03.2026Representatives of Turkmenistan are invited to attend the ‘RES 2026 EXPO’ international ‘green’ technology exhibition, which will be held from 22 to 24 April in Astana at the EXPO venue as part of the Regional Environmental Summit in Central Asia. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The event is organised by the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of Kazakhstan. Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and leaders of the region's countries are expected to attend the opening. More than 300 companies from 30 countries, over 1,500 delegates and more than 20,000 visitors, including representatives of government agencies, international organisations, business and science, will take part in the exhibition. The exhibition covers ‘green’ energy, water resources, the circular economy, ‘smart’ cities, climate technologies, biodiversity, agricultural technologies and ESG with ‘green’ financing. There will be an investment forum, ‘GREEN INVEST FORUM,’ an environmental start-up competition, ‘ECO STARTUP COMPETITION,’ a regional eco-film festival, and an art exhibition. The event is of interest to Turkmenistan, which is developing a ‘green’ economy, providing opportunities for business contacts, investment, and the exchange of experience with international experts.
Turkmenistan held a campaign to promote healthy lifestyles
12.03.2026A series of events dedicated to healthy lifestyles, family values and gender equality has come to an end in Turkmenistan. The initiative was implemented by the UNFPA Representative Office in collaboration with the Institute of State, Law and Democracy of Turkmenistan and the State Committee for Physical Culture and Sport of Turkmenistan, according to the IIC. The programme was conducted in sports schools with the participation of public associations and included educational training on communication, distribution of household responsibilities and conflict resolution, as well as interactive games, self-defence master classes and sports competitions. Particular attention was paid to the involvement of men, boys, girls and people with disabilities. On International Women's Day, two-day training sessions were held in Tejen, Balkanabat, Dashoguz and Turkmenabat, with sessions on gender equality, psychological counselling and sports games to strengthen teamwork. Additional information was disseminated through social media, promoting the image of a modern man who actively participates in family life. The initiative supports national priorities in the field of gender equality and contributes to the creation of a favourable atmosphere for all members of society.
Celebrations of International Nowruz Day start in Turkmenistan
11.03.2026On 21–22 March, Turkmenistan will host celebrations to mark International Nowruz Day, the national spring holiday. The main events will take place in ‘Nowruz ýaýlasy’ (Nowruz Valley) in the Ak Bugday etrap of the Ahal velayat, at the ‘Türkmeniň ak öýi’ buildings in the regions, and on the festive square of the city of Arkadag. The programme will be accompanied by musical performances, according to IIC. The holidays symbolise the awakening of nature, abundance and the arrival of spring and will be celebrated in style throughout the country. In Dashoguz velayat, cultural events will be held with the participation of bakhshi and national epic storytellers, who are the bearers of ancient Turkmen traditions. The festival will highlight the rich cultural heritage of the people, the art of epos performance and the national flavour of the holiday. The festive events will be complemented by music and national cuisine, reflecting the unity and peaceful principles of Turkmen society.
Ashgabat discusses the role of women in diplomacy and international relations
11.03.2026On 10 March, the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan hosted an interactive dialogue entitled ‘The Role of Women Diplomats in Society and Their Achievements’. The event was held as part of the second regional training for young diplomats and civil servants from Central Asian countries, according to the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The event was organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan in conjunction with the Office of the UN Resident Coordinator in the country. Women from diplomatic missions of foreign states and international organisations, employees of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, teachers of the institute and female students took part in the dialogue. Presentations were made by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Myahri Byashimova, Palestinian and Pakistani Ambassadors to Turkmenistan Rana Abu Hijleh and Faryal Leghari, Permanent Representative of the United Nations Development Programme Narine Sahakyan, and Executive Secretary of the National Commission of Turkmenistan for UNESCO Chynar Rustemova. During the discussion, the importance of Turkmenistan's policy of permanent neutrality was emphasised, which contributes to the promotion of peace initiatives and trust-building dialogue in the international arena. It was noted that the principle of ‘Dialogue is a Guarantee of Peace’ supports women's involvement in diplomacy and their contribution to strengthening stability in the region. The seminar provided a platform for young professionals to exchange experiences and reaffirmed the important role of women in Turkmenistan's diplomacy and peacebuilding activities.
Ashgabat to host exhibition dedicated to International Nowruz holiday
10.03.2026On 13 March, the Museum of Fine Arts of Turkmenistan will open a themed exhibition entitled ‘Nowruz: The Beauty of Nature in Colours,’ according to the news website Turkmenportal. The opening ceremony will begin at 11:00. The exhibition will be timed to coincide with the International Holiday of Nowruz. The exhibition is organised with the support of the Ministry of Culture of Turkmenistan. The exhibition is open to everyone — admission to the event is free.
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