News
Ashgabat launches development of a children’s rights programme
17.04.2026In Turkmenistan, with technical support from UNICEF, work has begun on developing a National Programme on Child Protection and Justice for Children. This was reported by Turkmenportal. The first meeting of the Inter-ministerial Working Group took place on 15 April in Ashgabat. The group was established by the Government of Turkmenistan. Coordination is being led by the General Prosecutor’s Office. The group comprises representatives from 10 government departments. This is the first time such an initiative has been launched. The aim is to unite the efforts of different sectors and establish a unified approach to the protection of children’s rights and the justice system. The programme is based on the Constitution of Turkmenistan, national legislation on children’s rights and the National Action Plan for 2023–2028. It also takes into account the recommendations of the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child (2024) and the Universal Periodic Review (2023). The document is aligned with the UN Framework Programme for 2026–2030 and UNICEF’s country programme for Turkmenistan for the same period. UNICEF Representative in Turkmenistan Jalpa Ratna noted that the programme reflects the country’s commitment to children’s rights and will help build a more coordinated system for the protection of children and families.
A Turkmen university has announced the winners of the international macroeconomics competition
17.04.2026The Turkmen State Institute of Economics and Management has announced the results of the 4th Open International Online Olympiad in Macroeconomics, organised with the support of the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The Olympiad brought together students from universities in Turkmenistan and abroad. It was attended by 135 students from 36 higher education institutions across 10 countries, including Turkmenistan, Russia, Belarus, Armenia, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Germany and Pakistan. At the end of the competition, 62 participants won prizes: 17 students took first place, 27 took second place, and 18 took third place. Among them, students from Turkmenistan won 16 prizes — 3 first places, 7 second places and 6 third places. Sixteen students from Russian universities also became winners and prize-winners. Students from Kyrgyzstan secured eight prize-winning places, whilst participants from Uzbekistan secured six. Representatives from Kazakhstan, Armenia, Belarus, Pakistan and Germany also became prize-winners. The Turkmen State Institute of Economics and Management congratulated the winners and expressed its gratitude to the participants for their interest in the Olympiad, noting its contribution to the development of international educational cooperation and the expansion of opportunities for the scientific and creative potential of young people.
Turkmenistan and the UAE are developing cooperation in the field of horse breeding
16.04.2026On 14 April 2026, Bayram Bayramov, Turkmenistan’s Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates, met with Mohamed Ahmed Al Harbi, Director General of the Emirates Arabian Horse Society (EAHS). This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. The negotiations focused on developing cooperation in the field of horse breeding, taking into account that 2026 in Turkmenistan is being held under the motto ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’. The parties discussed the preparation of a Memorandum of Understanding between the relevant ministries as the basis for formalising the partnership. Issues of technical cooperation were considered, including the exchange of experience in the field of digital pedigree records and veterinary protocols. A willingness to engage in regular dialogue to coordinate joint initiatives was noted. The significance of the racehorse as a cultural symbol for Turkmenistan and the United Arab Emirates was emphasised.
An exhibition of works by People's Artists is to be held in Ashgabat
16.04.2026On 20 April, a joint exhibition by People’s Artists Babasary Annamyradov and Ada Gutlyev will open in the exhibition hall of the State Academy of Arts of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. The opening ceremony is scheduled for 16:00. Cultural figures, students from relevant universities and art enthusiasts are expected to attend. The exhibition is entitled ‘Saña at diýmerin, gardaş diýerin!’ (‘I won’t call you a horse, I’ll call you a brother!’). In their works, the artists draw on the image of the Ahal-Teke horse as a symbol of cultural tradition, historical memory and the bond between man and his native land. The project brings together works by two masters with different artistic styles, both focused on exploring national heritage within contemporary art. The exhibition showcases the creative dialogue between the artists, whose works hold a significant place in the artistic culture of Turkmenistan.
The rector of a Chinese medical university has been awarded an honorary title in Turkmenistan
16.04.2026During the visit by a delegation from Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, it was announced that the university’s rector, Tang Zhishu, had been awarded the title of Honorary Professor at the Myrat Garryev State Medical University of Turkmenistan. It was emphasised that this decision was taken in recognition of his contribution to the development of inter-university cooperation and the expansion of the exchange of experience between the two educational institutions, reports TDH. The speakers congratulated the guest of honour on being awarded this high title and noted that cooperation between Turkmenistan and China in the fields of healthcare and education is reaching a qualitatively new level, focused on long-term and sustainable development. Tang Zhishu, Rector of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, in turn, noted that it was a great honour for him to receive the title of Honorary Professor of the Myrat Garryev State Medical University of Turkmenistan. As noted, the progress observed in the implementation of cutting-edge scientific achievements and the strengthening of cooperation between relevant universities is the result of joint efforts and confirmation of the successful implementation of agreements reached at the highest level. The participants in the event congratulated Tang Zhishu on being awarded the honorary title and expressed their confidence in the further expansion and deepening of bilateral cooperation.
The ‘Alternative Medicine Centre’ has been opened at the Medical University of Turkmenistan
16.04.2026As part of the visit by a delegation from Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, led by Rector Tang Zhishu, an opening ceremony was held for the ‘Alternative Medicine Centre’ at the Myrat Garryev State Medical University of Turkmenistan. This event was a significant part of the packed programme for the visiting guests, reports TDH. The ceremony was given particular significance by the participation of Oguljahan Atabayeva, Vice-President for Medical Activities at the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship. The festive atmosphere of the opening was complemented by musical and singing performances by the medical university’s creative ensemble, lending the event a special cultural flavour. During the speeches, the multifaceted nature of Turkmen-Chinese cooperation was emphasised, with the fields of healthcare and education playing a key role. It was noted that the development of such initiatives reflects the state’s consistent focus on public health, diagnosis and disease prevention. In this context, the activities of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship were highlighted. The Foundation not only provides support within the country but also sends humanitarian aid to children facing difficult life situations in various regions of the world. The highlight of the event was the grand opening of the ‘Alternative Medicine Centre’ in the building of the Faculty of Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine at the Myrat Garryev State Medical University of Turkmenistan, accompanied by applause from the attendees. Guests were shown the room’s facilities and equipment, as well as materials on the main areas of alternative medicine. The opening marked another step forward in the development of the national healthcare system and the strengthening of international cooperation in the medical field.
A memorandum on the establishment of the Turkmen-Chinese Medical Centre has been signed
16.04.2026A Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the Myrat Garryev State Medical University of Turkmenistan and Beijing University of Chinese Medicine. The ceremony took place during a meeting with a delegation from the Chinese university led by Rector Tang Zhishu. This was reported by TDH. The signed document provides for the establishment of a Turkmen-Chinese Centre for Traditional Chinese Medicine, which will serve as a platform for the development of scientific and educational cooperation. As part of the event, participants were shown an exhibition dedicated to Turkmenistan’s national healthcare system. It featured information on medicinal plants growing within the country, as well as on the potential of the domestic recreational infrastructure. The presentation of various types of medicinal teas attracted particular interest. Particular attention was paid to the multi-volume scientific encyclopaedic work by Hero Arkadag, ‘Medicinal Plants of Turkmenistan’, which was presented at the exhibition as a significant contribution to the development of the country’s medical science.
Turkmenistan and Armenia discussed the development of cooperation
16.04.2026On 15 April, Ahmet Gurbanov, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan, held a meeting with Arsen Avagyan, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Armenia to Turkmenistan. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed key areas of Turkmen-Armenian cooperation. It was noted that high-level visits contribute to the development of inter-state dialogue. It was emphasised that cooperation continues in both bilateral and multilateral formats. The parties provide mutual support for initiatives within international organisations, including the UN.
Turkey has proposed a model for developing tourism to Turkmenistan
16.04.2026On April 14, Turkish Tourism Week opened at the Turkish Cultural Centre in Ashgabat. The ceremony was attended by diplomats, representatives of the tourism industry, cultural figures and members of the media. The guest of honour was Nadir Alpaslan, Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Turkey. This was reported by the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. In his speech, he noted the shared historical and cultural heritage of Turkmenistan and Turkey, and emphasised the importance of the ‘One Nation, Two States’ concept for the development of tourism. The Deputy Minister proposed using the ‘Turkish model’ for the sector’s development. According to him, combining Turkey’s tourism potential with Turkmenistan’s attractions, including Ancient Merv, Nisa, Kunya-Urgench and the Karakum ecosystem, could contribute to the development of routes along the Great Silk Road. Nadir Alpaslan expressed interest in expanding investment and making more effective use of transport infrastructure with the participation of the public and private sectors. He expressed confidence that the holding of Turkish Tourism Week would create additional opportunities for cooperation.
The Turkmen Ambassador held negotiations on the digital agenda
16.04.2026On 14 April, Muhammetgeldi Ayazov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, held a meeting with Deemah AlYahya, Secretary-General of the International Digital Cooperation Organisation. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the development of digital cooperation between Turkmenistan, the International Digital Cooperation Organisation and its member states. Deemah AlYahya outlined the organisation’s main areas of work. According to her, the priorities remain strengthening digital cooperation between Central Asia and participating countries, developing cross-border investment and coordinating approaches at the international level. Ambassador Muhammetgeldi Ayazov noted that Turkmenistan is placing increasing emphasis on the digital economy. In this regard, a new Concept and State Programme for 2026–2028 have been adopted.
The MFA of Turkmenistan hosted negotiations on the development of tourism
16.04.2026On 15 April, Myahri Byashimova, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan, held a meeting with Cordula Wohlmuther, Acting Regional Director for Europe at UNWTO. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The Turkmen side thanked the UNWTO delegation for participating in the ‘Turkmentravel – 2026’ exhibition and conference, which are taking place in Ashgabat from 14 to 16 April. The parties discussed ongoing cooperation and the implementation of previously reached agreements. The focus was on promoting Turkmenistan’s tourism potential, developing infrastructure and training personnel. The prospects for cooperation under the Framework Programme of Cooperation between Turkmenistan and the UN for 2026–2030 were also discussed. The Turkmen side supported the declaration of 2027 as the International Year of Sustainable and Resilient Tourism and the launch of the corresponding roadmap. Priorities identified included digitalisation, attracting investment, job creation and the preservation of cultural and natural heritage. Practical matters were also discussed, including the holding of a specialised UN-Tourism training session for students and professionals on 15 April. Turkmenistan confirmed its readiness to step up its participation in UN-Tourism structures and to take part in the 72nd session of the organisation’s European Regional Commission.
The Turkish Ambassador to Turkmenistan noted a growing interest in tourist travel
16.04.2026A meeting attended by representatives of the diplomatic corps, the tourism industry and the media was held at the Turkish Cultural Centre in Ashgabat. The event took place as part of the opening of Turkish Tourism Week. It was opened by Ahmet Demirok, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Turkey to Turkmenistan. This was reported by the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The Ambassador noted that Turkey retains its status as one of the most sought-after tourist destinations. According to him, this is facilitated by its geographical location, climate and rich historical heritage. The country welcomes tourists all year round, offering a variety of holiday options. The role of tourism in the development of international relations was highlighted separately. According to the diplomat, the sector helps to strengthen ties between countries and plays an important role in the economy, including that of Turkmenistan. Ahmet Demirok also stated that Turkey remains a popular destination for citizens of Turkmenistan. Ahead of the summer season, the diplomatic mission expressed its readiness to provide support in organising trips.
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