News
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.
Turkmenistan and ILO discuss cooperation in the field of labour legislation
12.03.2026The Chairwoman of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan, Dunyagozel Gulmanova, held a meeting with Peter van Rooij, Regional Director of the International Labour Organisation for Europe and Central Asia. This was reported on the website of the Mejlis. The parties discussed the development of Turkmenistan's cooperation with the United Nations and its structures, as well as interaction with the International Labour Organisation on a multilateral basis. The participants reviewed the results of the implementation of the Roadmap for Cooperation between the Government of Turkmenistan and the ILO for 2024-2025 and plans for joint work in 2026. The Turkmen side provided information on measures to modernise labour legislation, as well as laws in the field of human rights and social protection of children and the population, taking into account international standards and accumulated experience. Peter van Rooij noted the results of the work being done and expressed confidence in the further development of cooperation.
Future specialists from Balkanabat study the operation of oil wells
12.03.2026Students and teachers from the Balkanabat branch of the Yagshygeldi Kakayev International University of Oil and Gas held a practical training session at the Goturdepe field in the Balkan velayat, between the Cheleken and Barsagelmez areas. The aim was to consolidate theoretical knowledge in real production conditions, according to IIC. Practical training helps students develop professional skills and adapt more quickly to the work environment. The efficient operation of fields in the Western region, including the drilling of new wells and the modernisation of infrastructure, meets the country's domestic needs and increases its export potential in the global energy market. The rational use of natural resources remains a key factor in Turkmenistan's sustainable economic growth.
Turkmen karate fighters will test their strength at a tournament in Krakow
12.03.2026The Turkmenistan national traditional karate team will take part in international competitions in Krakow (Poland) from 10 to 17 March 2026, according to IIC. The delegation consists of 14 people — 11 athletes and a coaching staff led by Diyar Hojaev. The trip is organised with the support of the State Committee for Physical Culture and Sport and the National Traditional Karate Federation. The tournament will be an opportunity for Turkmen karatekas to test their strength and compete with athletes from other countries.
Turkmenistan increases petrol production
12.03.2026Gasoline production volumes are increasing in Turkmenistan. According to the results of January–February 2026, the plan has been fulfilled by 122.7%, reports AsmanNews. The growth in production is ensured by the work of oil refineries and a plant for the production of gasoline from natural gas in the Ahal velayat. Their efficiency is linked to the over-fulfilment of oil and gas production plans. In the first two months, the oil production plan for the State Concern ‘Türkmennebit’ was fulfilled by 107.3%, and oil refining by 107.1%. Diesel fuel production amounted to 106.4%, lubricating oils – 102.7%, liquefied gas – 119.7%, and natural and associated gas production – 106.7%. The report was presented by Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan Guvanch Agajanov at a government meeting, where the results of increased oil and gas production and the expansion of exports to world markets were also discussed.
The exhibition ‘Art in Two Perspectives’ has opened in Ashgabat
12.03.2026The Art Gallery of the Union of Artists of Turkmenistan has opened a joint exhibition by People's Artist Annadurdy Almamedov and painter Berdi Charyev, entitled ‘Art in Two Perspectives.’ The exhibition will run until 30 March, according to Infoportal. The exhibition brings together different artistic styles: Almamedov's lyrical landscapes and still lifes and Charyev's figurative and philosophical paintings, filled with symbolism and metaphors. Despite their differences, both artists address themes of love for their native land and human labour. The exhibition features panoramic views of Kopetdag, still lifes with bouquets of lilacs, poppies and roses, as well as architectural sketches of the old Turkmen city.
The President of Turkmenistan congratulated the President of the Portuguese Republic
12.03.2026President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov sent a congratulatory message to António José Seguro on the occasion of his inauguration as President of the Portuguese Republic. This was reported by the news agency TDH. In his message, the Head of State wished the President of Portugal good health, prosperity and success in his public activities for the development and prosperity of the country.
The Consul General of Turkmenistan met with the Governor of Istanbul
12.03.2026On 11 March, a meeting was held at the Istanbul Governorate between the Consul General of Turkmenistan in the Republic of Turkey, Ovezgeldi Jumanazarov, and the Governor of Istanbul, Davut Gul. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The interlocutors discussed the current state of cooperation between Turkmenistan and the Republic of Turkey. They noted the development of cooperation in the trade, economic, cultural, scientific, educational, medical and sports spheres. The parties emphasised the importance of further strengthening bilateral partnership based on friendship, mutual respect and mutual benefit. They also discussed preparations for the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan's independence. Special attention was paid to events held under the 2026 motto: ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’.
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.
Turkmen students are studying in Italy under the ‘Erasmus+’ programme
12.03.2026The International University for the Humanities and Development (IUHD) is expanding its participation in the international educational space. As part of the ‘Erasmus+’ programme, students Yhlas Komekov and Soltanmyrat Tairov have been sent to Italy for five months of study at the G. D'Annunzio University of Chieti–Pescara. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan. This exchange is the first collaboration between IUHD and an Italian university, opening up new opportunities for educational and cultural exchange. Students study their specialities, improve their foreign language skills, gain practical experience in international politics and diplomacy, and represent the Turkmenistan education system on the international stage. The programme helps to establish scientific and cultural ties with students from different countries.
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.
Read also
Advertising
Read us in Zen
