On May 31, the Consulate of Turkmenistan in the Russian Federation (Astrakhan) organized a bicycle ride dedicated to World Bicycle Day. This was reported by the IIC. The holiday, established by the United Nations at the initiative of Turkmenistan in 2018, symbolizes commitment to a healthy lifestyle, environmental values, and international solidarity. The event started on the Volga River embankment. It brought together consulate staff and Turkmen students studying at universities in Astrakhan. The initiative, combining both sporting and cultural elements, was held within the framework of Turkmenistan’s 2026 national motto and aimed at strengthening friendly and good-neighborly relations. The bicycle ride concluded in a festive atmosphere, leaving participants with positive impressions.
President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov has received congratulatory messages on the occasion of Eid al-Adha from the President of the Arab Republic of Egypt, Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, and the Secretary General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, Hissein Brahim Taha. This was reported by TDH. In his message, the President of Egypt congratulated the head of Turkmenistan and the Turkmen people on the sacred holiday, wishing them peace, prosperity, and continued development of bilateral relations. Abdel Fattah El-Sisi also expressed hope for strengthening cooperation between the two countries for the benefit of the Islamic Ummah. The Secretary General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, Hissein Brahim Taha, sent his congratulations to the President of Turkmenistan on behalf of himself, as well as the staff of the Secretariat and the institutions of the organization. The message conveyed wishes for prosperity to Turkmenistan and for peace and well-being to the Islamic Ummah.
A delegation from the State Medical University named after Myrat Garryyev held talks in Kazan with the companies “MedVision” and “EIDOS/medicine” on the supply of modern medical simulators to Turkmenistan. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. Within the framework of the 7th Congress of the Association of Asian Universities and the IFTE-2026 forum, the rector of the university, N. Muratnazarova, presented initiatives on the introduction of AI, digital platforms, and simulation technologies in medical education. Meetings were also held with the leadership of Kazan Federal University, where programs for faculty professional development were discussed, as well as possible joint projects to create educational equipment based on IT solutions. On the sidelines of the forum, the rector of Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Zhanseit Tuimebayev, was elected as the new head of the Association of Asian Universities.
The CEO of the fashion house “Vivienne Westwood”, Carlo D’Amario, will attend the “Turkmen Textile Expo 2026”, which will be held in Ashgabat from June 4 to 6. This was reported by the Orient news agency. The brand “Vivienne Westwood” is one of the most influential in the global fashion industry, setting haute couture trends and regularly appearing on leading runways. Its collections are chosen by such global celebrities as Madonna, Lady Gaga, Dua Lipa, Naomi Campbell, and Bella Hadid. Carlo D’Amario has been leading the company for nearly four decades and is considered a key figure who ensured the transformation of “Vivienne Westwood” into a global luxury brand while preserving its avant-garde identity. His visit to Ashgabat highlights the growing international interest in the regional textile industry. As part of the exhibition, he will evaluate collections by designers from France, Morocco, Oman, Uzbekistan, Russia, and Turkmenistan, providing participants with a rare opportunity to present their work to a representative of the global luxury segment.
Turkmen entrepreneurs have been invited to take part in the 23rd international exhibition “Bucharest Auto Show & Accessories 2026”, which will be held from October 6 to 11 in Bucharest at the Romexpo exhibition complex. The information was reported by the online publication “Business Turkmenistan”. The exhibition is considered the largest automotive event in Romania and one of the key industry platforms in the region. It brings together car manufacturers, component suppliers, distributors, and technology companies every year. The event covers a wide range of topics, from new vehicle models and auto components to innovative mobility solutions and services. Special emphasis is placed on technologies shaping the future development of the transport sector. Organizers note that the exhibition is open both to major industry players and startups, offering opportunities for business cooperation, partnership building, attracting investors, entering new markets, and exchanging experience.
The national chess team of Turkmenistan will take part in the international tournament “Vladimir Dvorkovich Memorial – Aktobe Open 2026,” which will be held from June 3 to 11 in Aktobe (Kazakhstan). This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. Players from 21 countries will compete in the “Masters” and “Open” sections, including 23 grandmasters. The total prize fund amounts to 100,000 US dollars. The tournament is part of the team’s preparation for the 46th World Chess Olympiad, scheduled for September in Samarkand. Previously, the national team held training camps in Kokshetau (May 18 – June 2) at the invitation of the Kazakhstan Chess Federation. Under the guidance of grandmaster Alexander Rakhmanov, training sessions lasted 6–7 hours daily and focused on strategy, team play, and psychological preparation. After returning to Ashgabat, cooperation will continue in the form of online training sessions with the same specialist.
Culture Days of Azerbaijan will be held in Turkmenistan from May 5 to May 7. The program includes concerts by Azerbaijani artists, exhibitions, film screenings, and scientific conferences. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. On June 5, screenings of Azerbaijani films “Tagiyev: Oil” (10:00) and “Dream of Paradise” (13:00) will take place at the Ashgabat cinema. At 15:00, the exhibition “Pearl of Azerbaijan’s National Heritage” will open at the Saparmurat Turkmenbashi Museum of Fine Arts. At 17:30, the opening ceremony of Culture Days of Azerbaijan in Turkmenistan will be held at the Mukam Palace. On June 6, a scientific conference dedicated to the works of Döwletmämmet Azady and Seyid Azim Shirvani will be held at the library of the city of Arkadag, with participation from academic circles of Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan. At 16:00, the photo exhibition “Azerbaijan – From Lens to History” will open at the Arkadag Museum. At 18:00, a joint concert of Azerbaijani and Turkmen artists will take place at the State Equestrian Sports Circus named after Görogly in Arkadag. On June 7, at 10:00 the film “Arshin Mal Alan” will be screened at the Ashgabat cinema, and at 13:00 “Native Land” will be shown. At 16:00, a scientific conference dedicated to the works of Magtymguly Fragi and Molla Panah Vagif will be held at the State Library of the State Cultural Center of Turkmenistan. The program will conclude at 19:00 at the Mukam Palace with the closing ceremony of Culture Days of Azerbaijan in Turkmenistan.
The delegation of Turkmenistan, headed by the Minister of Labour and Social Protection of the Population Muhammetseyit Silapov, is participating in the 114th session of the International Labour Conference (ILC), taking place in Geneva from June 1 to 12. This was reported by the news agency Orient. The forum brings together representatives from 187 countries and is dedicated to the development of new global standards in the field of employment. This year’s key agenda focuses on challenges related to the rise of artificial intelligence and the platform economy. Participants are discussing issues such as ensuring decent working conditions, social justice, gender equality, inclusion, and the protection of workers’ rights amid technological transformation. On the sidelines of the session, Muhammetseyit Silapov held a meeting with the Regional Director of the ILO for Europe and Central Asia, Peter van Rooij. The sides discussed the results of their cooperation and further steps within the framework of the “road map,” including the modernization of labour legislation, improvement of occupational safety, and compliance with international standards aimed at eliminating child and forced labour.
In Ashgabat, as part of the celebrations dedicated to Turkmen Carpet Day, a ceremony was held to present a special diploma from the International Organization of Turkic Culture (TURKSOY) to the State Association “Türkmenhaly” for its contribution to the development of carpet weaving in the Turkic world. The best female artisans of the industry also received letters of appreciation. This was reported by Turkmenportal, citing the news agency TDH. During the ceremony, TURKSOY Secretary General Sultan Raev delivered a speech. He noted that in Turkmenistan, Turkmen Carpet Day is celebrated at a high level and holds significant importance for the cultural heritage of Turkic peoples. According to him, carpets are not only an element of decorative and applied art but also a carrier of historical traditions and the spiritual heritage of the Turkic world. Sultan Raev expressed gratitude to the State Association “Türkmenhaly” and the craftswomen for their contribution to the preservation and development of carpet weaving. At the end of the ceremony, he presented the special diploma and letters of appreciation.
Arkadag City, located at the foothills of the Kopetdag Mountains, has become one of the largest urban development projects in modern Turkmenistan. Built within the framework of the “smart city” concept, it is focused on the implementation of advanced technologies, infrastructure development, and improving the quality of the urban environment, AsmanNews reports. The initiator of the city’s creation was the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow. In accordance with the legislation of Turkmenistan, Arkadag has been granted the status of a city of national significance. Particular attention was paid during the design process to combining modern architecture, engineering solutions, and the natural landscape. The city features wide avenues, parks, fountains, and public spaces. One of Arkadag’s key development priorities is environmental sustainability. Projects are being implemented to preserve a favorable environment, expand green areas, and create comfortable living conditions for residents. Considerable attention is also devoted to supporting young people. Arkadag provides opportunities for education, professional development, and the implementation of initiatives by the younger generation. Modern lighting systems and architectural illumination create a distinctive cityscape in the evening, highlighting the unique features of its layout and architecture. The development of urban infrastructure continues through the implementation of new projects and programs aimed at further improving the city environment. Arkadag is regarded as an example of a comprehensive approach to urban planning, combining modern technologies, environmental solutions, and social orientation. The city continues to develop, strengthening its position as one of the country’s modern administrative and public centers.
A delegation of representatives from Turkmenistan’s mass media began a working visit to Portugal’s capital, Lisbon, on May 31. The trip was organized by the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat, according to the publication “Turkmenistan: Golden Age”. The visit is being held within the framework of a program aimed at further modernizing journalism and communication practices. Over the course of several days, meetings are scheduled with representatives of Portuguese government institutions and media organizations. The program includes talks at Portugal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the country’s parliament, as well as meetings with representatives of Portuguese media outlets. During the visit, the parties will discuss modern approaches to journalism and exchange professional experience. The Turkmen delegation will also familiarize itself with the practices of Portugal’s media sector. The country has a wide range of online and print media covering issues related to the economy, culture, sports, healthcare, and public life.
On June 1, Turkmenistan widely celebrated International Children's Day. The main festive events took place at the “Aşgabat” cultural and entertainment center in Ashgabat and in the city of Arkadag, AsmanNews reports. The celebrations were attended by members of the Government, heads of ministries and agencies, representatives of international organizations and the diplomatic corps, as well as children and creative groups. Congratulatory speeches were delivered by the UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan, Dmitry Shlapachenko, and UNICEF Representative in Turkmenistan, Jalpa Ratna. They highlighted Turkmenistan’s cooperation with international organizations in the fields of child rights protection, healthcare, and education. Concerts, theatrical performances, dance shows, competitions, sports events, and interactive activities were organized for participants. Performances were presented by children from the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Children's Health and Rehabilitation Center, the “Jahan” creative group, and other children's ensembles. As part of the celebrations, gifts were presented to children. Pupils of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Children's Health and Rehabilitation Center in Arkadag, the “Döwletliler köşgi” Palace, as well as children deprived of parental care, received gifts on behalf of the President of Turkmenistan and the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Care. It is also noted that a girl being raised at the Ashgabat Children's Home was presented with an official decision granting her the name Arkadag gyzy Gurbanguly, which had previously been approved at a meeting of the Council of Elders of the Halk Maslahaty under the Charitable Foundation. Festive events were also held in the city of Arkadag. Concert programs, sports performances, competitions, and exhibitions of children's artwork took place in the square in front of the Döwletli Gerogly State Equestrian Circus. The celebrations concluded with a performance by the “Galkynyş” National Equestrian Games Group. Events dedicated to International Children's Day were held in all regions of the country.