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Ashgabat expands foreign policy agenda for 2026
13.02.2026In 2026, under the motto ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses,’ Turkmenistan continues to pursue a constructive foreign policy based on the principles of neutrality, peacefulness and equal partnership. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. As noted, Turkmenistan's foreign policy strategy is aimed at expanding cooperation with all interested states and international organisations. Last year, declared the International Year of Peace and Trust and timed to coincide with the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's neutrality, the country initiated a number of UN General Assembly resolutions, including on the Decade of Sustainable Transport (2026-2035) and on energy interconnectivity. These documents became the basis for the development of the international transport and energy architecture. The working plan of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan for 2026, approved by the President of Turkmenistan, provides for political, diplomatic, trade, economic and humanitarian activities, as well as active work on the implementation of initiatives put forward at the 80th session of the UN General Assembly. Particular attention is paid to cooperation with international structures, including the WTO, OECD, International Energy Agency, IRENA, as well as relevant UN structures — UNCTAD, ESCAP and ECE. Among the priorities is the expansion of partnership with the International Labour Organisation. The authorities intend to extend the Roadmap for Cooperation with the ILO until the end of 2026, focusing on the prevention of forced labour, the improvement of legislation and the protection of labour rights. One of Turkmenistan's key international initiatives was the proposal to declare 2028 the ‘Year of International Law’. Preparations for this will begin in 2026 in conjunction with the United Nations Office of Legal Affairs. An active economic agenda was presented in January at SPECA Week in Ashgabat, where issues of energy, transport, trade, digitalisation and the ‘green’ economy were discussed. Cooperation with UNICEF, FAO and other specialised UN agencies continues. In January, FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu visited Ashgabat, and following the visit, an Agreement was signed to open an FAO office in Turkmenistan. In 2026, Turkmenistan will also chair the Consultative Meeting of Heads of State of Central Asia and the CIS, which will expand opportunities for regional dialogue. As emphasised, Turkmenistan's foreign policy activities are aimed at strengthening peace, sustainable development and expanding international partnerships.
Turkmen-Japanese cooperation in science and technology reaches new level
13.02.2026On 9 February, Turkmenistan's Ambassador to Japan, A. Bayramov, held a meeting with the President of the Turkmen-Japanese Science and Technology Association, H. Koinuma, and representatives of Japanese companies cooperating with the association. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The event discussed the prospects for further development of scientific and technological cooperation between Turkmenistan and Japan, as well as opportunities for new Japanese companies in this field to enter the Turkmen market. Particular attention was paid to proposals from ‘Tohkemy Corporation’ to introduce water purification technologies and equipment in Turkmenistan. In addition, the meeting participants familiarised themselves with the capabilities of ‘Sustec’ and ‘Carbon Cryo Capture Co., Ltd’, companies specialising in high-precision quantum-sensitive exploration technologies for searching for underground resources and carbon dioxide separation systems in the liquefied gas industry.
The MFA of Turkmenistan discussed strengthening cooperation with Switzerland
13.02.2026On 12 February, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Myahri Byashimova held a meeting with Thomas Stähli, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Swiss Confederation to Turkmenistan (resident in Baku), at the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of bilateral cooperation, noting the importance of further constructive and mutually respectful dialogue. Particular attention was paid to cooperation in international and regional organisations, including the UN. During the meeting, the diplomats discussed the development of trade, economic, cultural and humanitarian ties, as well as plans for joint events in 2026.
Images of Ahal-Tekes horses in the works of young artists were presented in Ashgabat
13.02.2026An exhibition of fine art entitled ‘The Swift Horses of Our Homeland’ has opened at the Gallery of the State Academy of Arts of Turkmenistan. The theme of the exhibition is in line with the motto of the year, ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses,’ as well as the international successes of the ‘Galkynysh’ equestrian team, which has become a symbol of national pride, according to the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. A notable feature of the exhibition is that all the works on display have been selected from the academy's Gold Fund. The collection contains the best student works, and for each author, the inclusion of their work in this fund is considered a special recognition of their professional skill. The exhibition opens with a symbolic painting by Gyzylgul Hudayberdiyeva, ‘Akhan the Horse.’ The image of the legendary horse rearing up in the golden glow of the sun is associated with the rapid development of the country. On the opposite side is another work by the artist, ‘Galkynysh Group,’ which captures a dynamic moment in a circus performance by Turkmen horsemen. The author managed to convey not only the speed and rhythm of the movement, but also the individual features of each participant. The central place in the exhibition is occupied by Bayram Mamiyev's painting ‘At the Wedding.’ Instead of the traditional festive procession, the artist depicted galloping horsemen, emphasising the folk custom of holding horse races as part of rural celebrations. Among the design works, Aygul Gurbanmyradova's painting ‘In Praise of the Motherland’ stands out. Two Ahal-Teke horses — white and black — symbolise day and night, personifying the passage of time and harmony in life. The exhibition ‘The Swift Horses of Our Motherland’ became a vivid reflection of the artistic heritage of the Academy's Gold Fund and allowed viewers to get acquainted with the best student works from different years dedicated to Ahal-Teke horses — recognised symbols of Turkmenistan.
Russia and Turkmenistan discussed cooperation and upcoming ministerial contacts
13.02.2026On 12 February, the Foreign Affairs Ministers of Russia and Turkmenistan, Sergey Lavrov and Rashid Meredov, held a telephone conversation during which they discussed the current state of bilateral cooperation and upcoming high-level meetings. This was reported by AsmanNews. The parties touched upon issues of interaction within the CIS and cooperation between the Caspian states. In addition, the ministers exchanged congratulations on the professional holidays of their countries' diplomatic workers: in Russian Federation, Diplomatic Worker's Day is celebrated on 10 February, and in Turkmenistan, on 18 February.
Turkmenistan participates in global conference in Morocco
13.02.2026A delegation from Turkmenistan is participating in the Sixth Global Conference on the Elimination of Child Labour, which is being held from 11 to 13 February under the auspices of the International Labour Organisation and the Government of Morocco. This was reported by the IIC. The conference programme includes plenary sessions, thematic discussions and events to exchange experiences, develop effective practices and strengthen international cooperation in the fields of education and social protection of children. Turkmenistan's participation demonstrates its growing international authority and commitment to humanistic values and constructive dialogue.
Turkmenistan strengthens strategic dialogue with Germany
13.02.2026On 11 February 2026, a meeting between the German Foreign Affairs Minister and the Heads of Foreign Affairs of Central Asian countries took place in Berlin. Turkmenistan was represented at the meeting by Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Ahmet Gurbanov, according to the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The key topics of discussion were the development of energy cooperation, regional partnership and security issues. During the plenary session of the ‘Central Asia-Germany’ format, the Turkmen side noted the steady and constructive nature of cooperation with Germany, emphasising the need to take the partnership to a new level commensurate with the potential of the parties. Particular attention was paid to strengthening political and diplomatic dialogue to maintain stability in the region. The economic agenda outlined prospects for cooperation in transport and logistics, energy, industry, the chemical industry, mechanical engineering, medicine, the agricultural sector, water management, and the field of IT and artificial intelligence. The expediency of establishing joint production facilities and educational centres was noted. In the context of climate policy, Turkmenistan positively assessed the contribution of Germany and GIZ to the implementation of environmental projects. Following the meeting, the Berlin Declaration was adopted, aimed at expanding multilateral cooperation within the framework of the ‘Central Asia-Germany’ format. On the same day, A. Gurbanov took part in a meeting with representatives of German business, where interest was confirmed in expanding cooperation, including in the modernisation of transport infrastructure, the development of the port of Turkmenbashi, the formation of transit corridors, as well as in projects in the fields of ‘green’ energy, industry, agriculture, IT and the financial and banking sector. In addition, meetings were held with German Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Security Policy Director of the Federal Foreign Office Dominik Mutter and Chairman of the Bundestag Foreign Affairs Committee Armin Laschet. The parties confirmed their interest in further strengthening bilateral relations, intensifying interparliamentary contacts and coordination in international forums, primarily within the framework of the UN and the OSCE.
An exhibition will be presented in Ashgabat to mark Diplomatic Workers' Day
13.02.2026Ashgabat is preparing to celebrate Turkmenistan's Diplomatic Workers' Day with a cultural event. On 16 February, the State Museum of the State Cultural Centre will open a thematic exhibition dedicated to the country's foreign policy achievements and the history of national diplomacy, according to the IIC of Turkmenistan. Representatives of ministries, cultural figures, students and guests of honour are expected to attend the exhibition. Visitors will be able to see archival documents, photographs and memorable exhibits reflecting Turkmenistan's multi-vector policy based on neutrality and international cooperation. The exhibition highlights the importance of the diplomatic service in strengthening Turkmenistan's international authority and promoting peace initiatives.
Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan discussed synchronisation of port projects
13.02.2026As part of his visit to Turkmenistan, Rovshan Rustamov, Chairman of Azerbaijan Railways (ADY), visited the Turkmenbashi International Sea Port. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. Port Director Parahat Jumayev presented the ADY delegation with the port's infrastructure, technical capabilities and transit potential. The role of the port in the development of regional freight transport, the synchronisation of development plans for the ports of Turkmenbashi and Baku, as well as dredging work were discussed. The parties emphasised that strengthening the connection between the Caspian and Black Seas would contribute to the growth of cargo turnover and increase the efficiency of the Middle Corridor route. The importance of coordination between ports along the Eurasian transport route for safe and fast transportation was also noted.
Turkmen actor receives prestigious TURKSOY award
13.02.2026Honoured Artist of Turkmenistan Batyr Charyev from the Great Saparmyrat Turkmenbashi Main Academic Drama Theatre of Turkmenistan received the TURKSOY award in the ‘Best Actor’ category for his contribution to the development of theatre arts in the Turkic world. This was reported by the news website Asmannews. The ceremony was held on 9 February in Istanbul and was organised by TURKSOY in conjunction with the ‘Anadolu’ newspaper to honour outstanding figures in culture and the arts from the organisation's member countries. The award was presented to B. Charyev by TURKSOY Deputy Secretary General Sayit Yusuf.
Scientists in Turkmenistan have introduced an environmentally friendly method of producing solidol
13.02.2026Scientists at the Institute of Chemistry of the Academy of Sciences of Turkmenistan have developed a method for producing solidol from local raw materials, which is in demand in industry and agriculture. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. The technology is unique in that it uses waste from the oil and gas and food industries, including soapstock, fatty acids, gossypol resins and animal fats. Experiments have shown that high-quality solidol can be produced from purified waste oils, bitumen and mineral additives. The resulting product complies with state standards, and the introduction of the technology will expand the raw material base and reduce production costs through the processing of secondary raw materials. Calcium, lithium and strontium compounds extracted from local deposits, such as Kelata, Akdepe and Balkan, are used to thicken the oils. Base oils are produced at the Turkmenbashi Oil Refinery, and the new method allows local resources to be integrated into the production chain. The technology meets modern environmental requirements, reduces waste disposal costs and strengthens the country's economic independence, demonstrating the effectiveness of cooperation between science and industry.
Football in Turkmenistan: Historical Dynamics, Institutional Development, and Contemporary International Development Vectors
13.02.2026Football in Turkmenistan represents not only a popular sport but also a significant socio-cultural phenomenon that reflects the processes of institutional state-building, international integration, and the strategic development of the humanitarian sphere. The history of national football is closely linked to the historical transformations of the 20th and 21st centuries — from the Soviet sports legacy to the contemporary model of independent sports policy. The establishment of football traditions in the territory of present-day Turkmenistan began in the 1920s. By 1927, the Ashgabat team was formed and played an international match against a team from Mashhad, demonstrating the early inclusion of the region in cross-border sports contacts. In 1928, the Turkmenistan national team participated in the All-Union Spartakiad in Moscow, achieving commendable results in competitions with teams from other Soviet regions. During the 1930s, football actively developed within the framework of the Soviet physical culture system. A particularly important role during this period was played by the Ashgabat club ‘Kolhozchy’, later known as ‘Kopetdag’, which represented the Turkmen SSR in Soviet championships. The team’s performances in the second league of the USSR Championship from the 1960s to the 1980s contributed to the development of professional personnel, a coaching school, and a stable sports infrastructure. By the time of independence in 1991, the country already possessed a well-developed foundation for the further autonomous advancement of football. Following the proclamation of Turkmenistan’s independence, the formation of a national football structure began. In 1992, the Football Federation of Turkmenistan (FFT) was established, tasked with managing national competitions, developing club football, and preparing national teams. In 1993, the Federation joined the subregional organization CAFA, and in 1994, it became a full member of FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), officially integrating Turkmenistan into the international football community. Based on the FFT, regular competitions were systematized, forming the foundation of club football in the country. In 1992, the first season of the Ýokary Liga (Top League) was launched, including the leading clubs of the country, providing regular match practice and fostering a sustainable competitive environment. In 1993, the Turkmenistan Cup was established, creating additional opportunities for players to demonstrate their skills and for young talents to emerge. Gradually, regional, youth, and junior championships were introduced, creating a prepared coaching and refereeing infrastructure and ensuring the institutional maturity of national football. On the international stage, the Turkmenistan national team began competing following the FFT’s registration with FIFA. In 2004, the team participated for the first time in the final stage of the AFC Asian Cup, marking an important milestone in the national team’s history. Participation in international tournaments facilitated the accumulation of experience and the strengthening of the country’s sporting image. At various times, the team demonstrated positive trends in the FIFA rankings, confirming its potential for further growth. In 2025, the U-17 team defeated Afghanistan in the CAFA Championship, demonstrating the strengthening of youth football. Club football in Turkmenistan, over more than three decades of independence, has undergone stages of consolidation and structural stabilization. In the 1990s, leading positions were held by ‘Kopetdag’ and ‘Nisa’, while in the 2010s, ‘Altyn Asyr’ dominated, winning the national championship eight consecutive times from 2014 to 2021. In 2018, ‘Altyn Asyr’ reached the final of the AFC Cup, marking a significant achievement for Turkmen club football on the international stage. In recent years, noticeable progress has been demonstrated by the clubs ‘Ahal’ and ‘Arkadag’. The football club ‘Arkadag’, founded in 2023, quickly became a symbol of national football development. In its debut season, the team won the Turkmenistan championship, and in 2025, it secured the title for the third consecutive time, completing the season undefeated: 28 matches, 84 points, 105 goals scored, and only 15 conceded. These results reflect the club’s high level of organization and strategic approach to management. Turkmen clubs actively participate in international AFC tournaments, providing new opportunities to enhance skills and gain international recognition. For example, ‘Altyn Asyr’s achievements in IFFHS rankings highlight the accomplishments of Turkmen football on the global stage. The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, and the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, emphasize the priority of sports and football for national development. State initiatives encompass all aspects of football improvement: youth training, coach and referee education, organization of national leagues and championships, and the integration of Turkmen clubs into Asian and global competitions. Modern sports infrastructure in Turkmenistan, including the Olympic Stadium in Ashgabat with a capacity of 45,000 spectators, ‘Kopetdag’ Stadium, contemporary sports complexes and training bases, as well as a new modern sports arena in Arkadag city, ensures systematic athlete preparation and the hosting of international competitions, strengthening Turkmenistan’s status as a center for sports tourism and international dialogue. Football development programs include youth tournaments, international seminars for coaches and referees, and experience exchange with representatives of FIFA and the AFC. Training young players and improving coach qualifications remain priorities: ‘D’ license certification programs enable work with children’s teams, and Turkmen youth national teams actively participate in CAFA regional tournaments. In 2025, a new head coach, Rovshen Meredov, with a PRO license, was appointed to the national team, reflecting the federation’s commitment to improving team performance internationally. FIFA experts visiting Turkmenistan noted the activity of the Football Federation and the potential for further development, emphasizing the importance of the ‘Football in Schools’ program for promoting the sport among youth. The key event in the modern history of Turkmen football was the AFC Champions League 2 Round of 16 match between ‘Arkadag’ and the Saudi Arabian club ‘Al-Nassr’, which took place on February 11, 2026, in Ashgabat. Despite the Turkmen team's narrow 0-1 defeat, the match demonstrated the institutional maturity of national football and its readiness to host international competitions. The return match is planned for 18 February 2026 in Riyadh at Al-Awwal Park, where the hosts will have an advantage due to the result of the first encounter. This second match will be significant not only for qualifying to the quarterfinals but also for assessing the competitiveness of the Turkmen club at the international level. Football in Turkmenistan is not only a sporting competition, but also a significant social institution that contributes to strengthening national unity, educating youth, and the country's international standing.
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