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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.
Turkmenistan is developing the port of Turkmenbashi as a key transport hub in the Caspian Sea region
05.03.2026Turkmenistan continues to develop the Caspian coast as a major logistics hub for Eurasia. On 3 March, a meeting was held in the port of Turkmenbashi with UNDP Permanent Representative Narine Sahakyan to discuss projects on digitalisation and environmental development of the port, according to the Orient news agency. The main focus was on the implementation of the Maritime Single Window (MSW) system and the modernisation of the Terminal Operating System (TOS). These solutions should simplify data exchange between services, speed up ship processing and increase the efficiency of cargo transportation along the Trans-Caspian route. The initiatives are planned to be submitted for consideration by the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan. At the same time, the environmental modernisation of the port continues. It already has ISO-14001 certification and ‘Eco-port’ status, and in the future, it plans to comply with the international ‘Green Port’ standards. The modernisation is already yielding results: in 2025, the port's cargo turnover grew by 15.2%. Turkmenbashi plays an important role in the ‘China-Europe’ and ‘North-South’ transport corridors, connecting the logistics routes of Azerbaijan, Georgia and Uzbekistan. An additional factor in its development has been the creation of its own shipbuilding industry. Two dry cargo ships and a dredger are being built at the ‘Balkan’ shipyard, with plans for three more dry cargo ships and two Ro-Ro ferries. Cooperation with South Korean companies is enabling the introduction of modern technologies and the formation of a national merchant fleet.
Turkmenistan has planned major energy projects for 2026
05.03.2026The construction of the ‘Mary-Mashhad’ 500/400 kV power line is included in the ‘Programme for the Socio-Economic Development of Turkmenistan and Investments in 2026’ and is considered one of the key projects in the energy sector. This was reported by the online publication ‘Business Turkmenistan’ with reference to the newspaper ‘Neutral Turkmenistan’. The programme also provides for the transfer of gas turbine units at state power plants in the Ahal, Balkan, Dashoguz and Lebap velayats to synchronous compensation mode. There are plans to build a new power plant and power lines in the Turkmenbashi etrap of the Balkan velayat, as well as to further develop the energy infrastructure of the city of Arkadag. In the oil and gas industry, the priorities for 2026 remain the search for new resources, increasing hydrocarbon reserves and drilling the first phase of production wells at the ‘Galkynysh’ field. One of the main projects will be the implementation of the ‘Serhetabat-Herat’ section, which is part of the TAPI gas pipeline system. In addition, the country plans to complete the construction and commissioning of a number of important transport infrastructure facilities.
Turkmenistan and Tajikistan increased mutual trade in 2025
05.03.2026Trade turnover between Turkmenistan and Tajikistan reached US$43.1 million in 2025, which is 17.1% more than in 2024. This was reported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan following the meeting of the Joint Turkmen-Tajik Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific and Technical Cooperation, held on 3–4 March in Dushanbe. The meeting was chaired by Deputy Prime Minister of Tajikistan Sulaymon Ziyozoda and Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan Tanryguly Atahallyev. Representatives of relevant ministries and departments of the two countries participated in the meeting. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of trade and economic cooperation, as well as cooperation in the fields of transport and communications, energy and water resources, industry and construction, agriculture, education, healthcare, civil aviation, culture and youth policy. Following the meeting, both sides expressed their readiness to further expand bilateral cooperation.
Turkmenistan celebrates International Women's Day
05.03.2026Events dedicated to International Women's Day are being held in Turkmenistan. Celebrations are organised in all regions of the country, according to TDH. In the run-up to the holiday, women working in various industries, kindergarten pupils and students are presented with cash gifts on behalf of the President of Turkmenistan. The results of the ‘Talyp gözeli’ competition are also being announced, and conferences, concerts and creative meetings are being held. The festive programmes include musical performances, art exhibitions and competitions in Ashgabat, Arkadag and the velayats. The contribution of women to the social and working life of the country is being celebrated. The practice of awarding the ‘Zenan kalby’ order to leading workers continues. Mothers of many children are awarded the honorary title of ‘Ene mähri’, and a number of families are presented with the keys to new apartments. Official speeches emphasise the role of women in strengthening the family, raising the younger generation and developing national traditions. At the state level, work continues to protect the rights of women, motherhood and childhood. The contribution of Turkmen craftswomen to the development of decorative and applied arts is noted. The inclusion of national carpet weaving and embroidery in the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity is seen as recognition of the country's cultural values. Events to mark International Women's Day are held throughout the country and are dedicated to honouring mothers and women.
Students at a Turkmen university discussed the role of AI in the economy and society
05.03.2026On 4 March, students from the Oguz Han University of Engineering and Technology in Turkmenistan took part in an educational session organised by the UNDP. The session discussed the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies for social and economic development, according to IIC. UNDP international expert Tristan Post spoke about the impact of AI on education, public services and the market for future professions. He emphasised the importance of digital skills, an ethical approach and the responsible use of technology. Students discussed the evolution of AI, from the first systems to modern advanced technologies. Particular attention was paid to new professions, skills that will be in demand in the future, and the overall impact of automation on the labour market and society. The session was part of a series of educational events entitled ‘Youth and Digital Transformation: Innovation for Sustainable Development,’ which will be held in 2026 in collaboration with the Engineering and Technology University as part of a Memorandum of Understanding between UNDP and the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan.
Turkmenistan's Ambassador to Bulgaria discussed expanding bilateral cooperation
05.03.2026In early March 2026, Esen Aydogdyev, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to the Republic of Bulgaria, residing in Moscow, visited Sofia to participate in events marking Bulgaria's national holiday, Liberation Day. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. During the visit, E. Aydogdyev met with Petko Doykov, Director General of the Directorate General for Bilateral Relations of the Bulgarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. They discussed prospects for bilateral cooperation, including trade and economic relations, transport, healthcare, tourism and other sectors. The Ambassador also informed about the planned celebration of the National Holiday of the Turkmen Horse in 2026 and invited the Bulgarian side to participate in the events. The interlocutors emphasised the potential of the Turkmen-Bulgarian partnership and confirmed the need to intensify it both at the intergovernmental level and through international organisations, including the UN and the ‘Turkmenistan-EU’ dialogue. In addition, they discussed the timing of bilateral consultations and the organisation of the next meeting of the Turkmen-Bulgarian Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation. Particular attention was paid to joint work in the fields of science, education and culture, as well as to continuing the practice of holding joint events in these areas.
MFA of Turkmenistan reports on the safety of transit across the border with Iran
05.03.2026The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan has announced that the country is allowing foreign citizens, road transport and rolling stock to cross the Turkmen-Iranian border. The decision was made in connection with the current situation in the Middle East, according to the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. All international checkpoints on the border are operating as usual. As of 4 March, more than 200 people from 16 countries, including Central Asian states, China, Russia, the United States, Finland, Sweden, the Netherlands, Germany, Turkey and Saudi Arabia, have entered Turkmenistan.
Turkmen-Korean dialogue covers politics, economics and humanitarian spheres
05.03.2026On 4 March, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Ahmet Gurbanov held a meeting with Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea for Public Diplomacy Lim Sang-woo at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The parties noted the high dynamics of development of Turkmen-Korean relations in the political, trade, economic, cultural and humanitarian spheres. Particular attention was paid to preparations for upcoming visits and events at the highest level, as well as the importance of political and consular consultations as a tool for systematic discussion of the bilateral agenda. The diplomats exchanged views on topical issues on the international and regional agenda, including the situation in the Middle East, emphasising the importance of joint efforts to maintain peace, security and stability. Lim Sang-woo thanked the Turkmen side for its assistance in the transit of citizens of the Republic of Korea travelling from Iran. At the end of the meeting, the parties confirmed their readiness to continue expanding the multifaceted dialogue between the countries.
Turkmenistan and China have confirmed the strategic nature of their relations
05.03.2026On 4 March, the Ambassador of Turkmenistan to the People's Republic of China, P. Durdyev, held a meeting with the Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs of China, Liu Bin. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of bilateral relations. They emphasised the importance of further developing cooperation and maintaining close dialogue at the highest level. It was noted that Turkmen-Chinese cooperation is based on the principles of mutual respect, peacefulness and humanism, as well as shared cultural values. In this regard, the parties pointed to opportunities for expanding cooperation in the political, economic, cultural and humanitarian spheres. The interlocutors also emphasised the importance of coordination within international organisations. The strategic nature of the relations and mutual interest in their further strengthening were confirmed.
Startups from Turkmenistan participate in the international ‘Hero Training’ programme
05.03.2026Turkmenistan has joined the list of countries participating in the fifth round of the ‘Hero Training’ international acceleration programme. The initiative is being implemented with the participation of Astana Hub, IT Park Uzbekistan and Draper University. This was reported by IIC. The programme will bring together 11 technology start-ups from Central Asia and the Caucasus. Among them are projects from Turkmenistan, which will have the opportunity to undergo intensive training in Silicon Valley and expand their access to foreign markets. ‘Hero Training’ is designed to last five weeks and includes workshops, strategic sessions, meetings with investors and mentoring support. Participants also undergo a practical module called ‘Survival Week with Sea Lions,’ aimed at developing leadership and team skills. According to the organisers, over the years the programme has attracted more than 260 applications, and 41 start-ups have undergone full-time acceleration at Draper University. Graduates have already attracted over $3 million in investment and launched sales in international markets. The participation of Turkmen projects in ‘Hero Training’ expands their access to the global startup ecosystem, international investors and partner networks. The programme is expected to help teams accelerate product growth and prepare for entry into the US market.
Turkmenistan and OHCHR agree to strengthen human rights dialogue
05.03.2026On 4 March, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Myahri Byashimova held a meeting with Matilda Bogner, Regional Representative of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) for Central Asia. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed cooperation in the field of human rights. It was noted that Turkmenistan advocates constructive dialogue on human rights based on mutual respect, trust and consideration of national development characteristics. Particular attention was paid to the implementation of the Framework Programme for Cooperation with the UN for 2026-2030. It was emphasised that the human rights agenda cuts across all areas of the programme, from social policy and gender equality to issues of the rule of law. The role of the Interdepartmental Commission for Ensuring the Implementation of Turkmenistan’s International Obligations in the Field of Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law as a key mechanism for coordination and interaction with international partners was noted. The Turkmen side expressed its gratitude for the appointment of an international expert as Human Rights Adviser to the UN Country Team in Turkmenistan. This is expected to strengthen the basis for joint initiatives and dialogue. Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their readiness to develop cooperation in the field of human rights based on the principles of dignity, inclusiveness and depoliticisation of international interaction.
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