News
Women's entrepreneurship in Turkmenistan: from carpet weaving to workshops
07.03.2026Turkmen women are increasingly turning traditional folk crafts into entrepreneurial projects. This was reported by Jennet Ovekova, a member of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan and a member of the Committee on Legislation and its Norms, in an interview with the newspaper ‘Neutral Turkmenistan’, according to Turkmenportal. According to her, changes in the country's economy have given a powerful impetus to the development of crafts. Women are opening workshops for the production of carpets and carpet products, workshops for sewing national clothing and hand embroidery, and are establishing the production of koshma — a thick, felted wool rug, blanket, or mat often used in Central Asia as a floor covering — not only in the capital and large cities, but also in small towns and villages. ‘Turkmen women are actively involved in the craft industry, turning family traditions of carpet weaving, koshma production, national women's clothing and hand embroidery into entrepreneurial projects,’ Ovekova noted. Particular attention is paid to carpet weaving. The art of hand-weaving carpets has been passed down from generation to generation, and in 2019, Turkmen carpet weaving was included in UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The development of women's entrepreneurship is facilitated by state support: women are provided with preferential loans to start a business and the opportunity to use land plots on a long-term basis. According to the deputy, the number of successful women entrepreneurs in Turkmenistan is growing every year.
Free bus services to the Ak Ishan mausoleum are organised from Ashgabat
07.03.2026Free bus trips to the Ak Ishan mausoleum, located in the Baherden etrap of the Ahal velayat, have been organised for residents and guests of the capital of Turkmenistan. The initiative is being implemented by the open joint-stock company ‘Awtomobil ulag hyzmaty’ with the support of the private enterprise ‘Sarwan’, according to IIC. As noted by the organisers, the trips are intended for pilgrims and will be provided free of charge. According to the schedule, buses will run on weekends from 1 March to 26 April 2026. Departure from Ashgabat is scheduled for 08:00 from the railway station. The return trip from the Ak Ishan mausoleum to the capital will be at 15:00.
Turkmen scientists have developed herbal coffee from senna seeds
07.03.2026The Biotechnology Laboratory of the International Science and Technology Park of the Academy of Sciences of Turkmenistan has registered intellectual property rights for a new development — plant-based coffee made from Senna obtusifolia seeds. This was reported by the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. According to the Head of the laboratory, Altyn Rahmanova, work on the project included comprehensive research in several areas. At the first stage, specialists carried out agrotechnical adaptation of the crop, determining the optimal conditions for growing senna in an arid climate and on saline soils. This made it possible to ensure a stable harvest and preserve the content of biologically active substances. The next stage was biochemical analysis of the raw materials. Studies have shown that seeds grown in Turkmenistan contain high concentrations of antioxidants and carotene and do not accumulate harmful impurities. Scientists have also developed a technology for heat treating the seeds, which allows them to produce a drink with a characteristic coffee flavour without caffeine. As a result, a complete production cycle has been formed, adapted to the use of local raw materials. According to experts, plant-based coffee may be of interest to those who follow a healthy lifestyle. The drink has a mild tonic effect, improves digestion and maintains vision without putting significant strain on the cardiovascular system. The development was implemented as part of the ‘State Programme for the Comprehensive Development of Biotechnology in Turkmenistan for 2024–2028’. The project aims to expand the country's scientific potential and develop the production of innovative products based on domestic raw materials.
In Turkmenistan, the public holiday on 8 March has been moved to 9 March
07.03.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, has signed a Decree postponing the public holiday in connection with the celebration of International Women's Day. This was reported by AsmanNews. According to the document, the public holiday on 8 March will be moved to 9 March 2026, which is a Monday. The decision was made in order to create favourable conditions for festive events and recreation for the population. The Decree also requires all institutions, enterprises and organisations, regardless of their form of ownership, to ensure its implementation.
Serdar Berdimuhamedov approved the strategy for the development of scientific and medical diplomacy
07.03.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, has signed a Decree aimed at developing medical science and strengthening international cooperation in this field. This was reported by TDH. The document approves the ‘National Strategy for the Development of Scientific and Medical Diplomacy in Turkmenistan for 2026-2052’, as well as the Action Plan for its implementation for 2026-2030. According to the Decree, the relevant ministries and sectoral agencies, as well as the hakimliks of the velayats and cities of Ashgabat and Arkadag, are instructed to ensure the implementation of the measures provided for in the plan. The adoption of the strategy is aimed at the comprehensive development of medical science and the expansion of international cooperation in the field of healthcare.
The President of Turkmenistan noted the role of women in the country's development
07.03.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, congratulated the women of the country on International Women's Day, noting their contribution to the development of society, the preservation of national traditions and the upbringing of the younger generation. This was reported by AsmanNews. In his address, the Head of State emphasised that the holiday, celebrated at the beginning of spring, is accompanied by solemn events throughout the country and is intended to express respect and gratitude to mothers, women and girls. According to the President, conditions are being created in Turkmenistan for the active participation of women in public and professional life. They work in the state administration system, science, education, healthcare, culture, industry, agriculture, transport and other areas, making a significant contribution to the socio-economic development of the country. The role of women in preserving and developing national crafts, including carpet weaving, embroidery and traditional handicrafts, which are passed down from generation to generation, was highlighted separately. In honour of International Women's Day, cash gifts were presented in a solemn atmosphere to women working in various institutions and organisations, as well as to students, schoolgirls and kindergarten pupils. Mothers of large families were awarded the honorary title of ‘Ene mähri’ for their contribution to the upbringing of the younger generation. The Head of State also noted that the country pays great attention to strengthening the institution of the family, raising educated and patriotic youth, and developing the healthcare and education systems. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov wished women good health, prosperity and further success.
‘Monforts’ contributes to optimising the work of textile enterprises in Turkmenistan
07.03.2026The German company ‘Monforts’ is working to optimise existing production lines at textile enterprises in Turkmenistan with the aim of increasing their operational efficiency and ensuring long-term stability. This was reported by Thomas Paffgen, the company's sales manager for Southern and Central Europe, according to the online publication ‘Business Turkmenistan’. The company has been operating in the Turkmenistan market for many years, supplying equipment and technologies for fabric finishing at full-cycle enterprises, with the support of the German manufacturers' association ‘VDMA’. ‘Monforts’ installs and maintains thermofixing, sanforising and continuous dyeing systems at large state-owned and state-affiliated enterprises. Founded in 1884, ‘Monforts’ is a leading global manufacturer of high-tech equipment for the textile industry.
Turkmenistan represented at the ‘AELLCA’ international summit in Tashkent
07.03.2026Teachers from Turkmen universities are participating in the British Council Partnership Summit in Tashkent, which is being held from 4 to 8 March as part of the ‘AELLCA’ educational project to improve the quality of English language teaching in Central Asia. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. Turkmenistan is represented at the forum by staff from the International University for the Humanities and Development and the Dovletmammet Azadi Turkmen National Institute of World Languages. The summit programme includes modern methods of teaching English, tools for professional development and mechanisms for inter-university cooperation. Participants are holding seminars and exchanging experiences, and there are plans to launch joint language projects. The participation of Turkmen specialists paves the way for the introduction of international approaches into the national education system and contributes to the acceleration of the integration of educational systems in the region.
Turkmenistan was represented at a meeting on tax policy in Tokyo
06.03.2026Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy of Turkmenistan Babaniyaz Yalakov took part in the ‘Tax and Development’ meeting organised as part of the ‘Platform for Collaboration on Tax’ initiative. The event was held on 2-3 March in Tokyo, according to the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The above-mentioned initiative was created by the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development and the United Nations. The event was attended by representatives of international financial organisations, heads of financial and tax authorities from various countries, as well as experts. Participants discussed improving tax policy, increasing the efficiency of tax systems, and developing international cooperation to support economic growth. Particular attention was paid to strengthening tax administration in developing countries, the use of digital technologies, and increasing the transparency of the economy. Following the meeting, proposals were put forward to expand information exchange and develop international cooperation in the tax sphere. Participants emphasised that such meetings contribute to the financial stability of states and stimulate economic development.
The Mejlis of Turkmenistan held an online meeting with Pakistani parliamentarians
06.03.2026On 5 March, the Mejlis of Turkmenistan held a video conference with female parliamentarians from the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. This was reported by the online news resource TerraNews. During the meeting, the parties presented the priorities of Turkmenistan's domestic and foreign policy, and discussed the activities of the national parliament and cooperation with international organisations, including the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly and the Inter-Parliamentary Union. The participants emphasised the importance of inter-parliamentary dialogue for strengthening bilateral relations. It was noted that the creation of parliamentary friendship groups contributes to the exchange of legislative experience and the development of parliamentary diplomacy. Pakistani MPs drew attention to the high level of representation of women in the Mejlis of Turkmenistan and the role of young women in the system of public administration. Issues related to the promotion of gender equality and the protection of women's rights were also discussed. It was noted that Turkmenistan is implementing national action plans in the field of human rights, gender equality and the protection of children's rights in cooperation with the UN. Following the meeting, the parties agreed to maintain regular contacts between young and female parliamentarians to further develop cooperation.
Moscow discusses development of strategic partnership between Turkmenistan and Russia
06.03.2026On 5 March, Esen Aydogdyev, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to the Russian Federation, held a meeting in Moscow with Konstantin Kosachev, Deputy Speaker of the Federation Council. This was reported by the Orient news agency. The main topic of the talks was the development of strategic partnership between the two countries and the implementation of Turkmenistan's programme for its chairmanship of the CIS in 2026. The parties emphasised the important role of inter-parliamentary dialogue in strengthening relations between states. Particular attention was paid to the international agenda and Ashgabat's initiatives within the framework of its chairmanship of the Commonwealth. K. Kosachev highly appreciated the concept of the chairmanship prepared by Turkmenistan, noting its substance and expressing Russia's readiness to support the proposed initiatives, including at the CIS Interparliamentary Assembly. The interlocutors also noted the steady development of bilateral cooperation, which covers the economic, political and humanitarian spheres.
Turkmen Ahal-Teke horses will compete on the world equestrian stage
06.03.2026In honour of the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan's independence, there are plans to hold the ‘Amul-Hazar’ horse race, in which 35 riders on Ahal-Teke horses from Ashgabat, Arkadag and other regions of the country will take part. The significant date will also be marked by festive competitions in equestrian complexes in the capital and velayats, as well as tourist horse rides through picturesque corners of the country, reports TDH. Throughout the year, the Turkmenistan delegation intends to participate in a number of international events related to horse breeding and equestrian sports. These include the prestigious Dubai World Cup 2026 in Dubai, the Royal Windsor Horse Show 2026 in the United Kingdom, the FEI World Championship 2026 in Aachen, Germany, the FEI Jumping Nations Cup™ Youth competition in the Netherlands, the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe Longchamp horse race in Paris and the Fieracavalli 2026 horse festival in Verona, Italy. Participation in equestrian competitions timed to coincide with the National Day of the United Arab Emirates is also planned. The ‘Galkynysh’ National Equestrian Games Group will also continue its foreign tours. On 4 March, the group performed in Baku, where, as part of the visit of the Turkmen delegation, a Memorandum of Cooperation in the field of equestrian sports and horse breeding was signed between the ‘Türkmen atlary’ State Association and the Azerbaijan Equestrian Federation. The group also plans to tour China in the future. In addition, Ahal-Teke horses from Turkmenistan will take part in international competitions and beauty contests abroad. In particular, these include the ‘The Pearl of the East’ equestrian competitions in Uzbekistan, the ‘Kurultaj’ festive events in Hungary and the Ahal-Teke horse beauty contest in the Netherlands.
Read also
Advertising
Read us in Zen
