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Turkmen chess players secured podium places at a tournament in Bukhara
18.03.2026From 9 to 15 March, the 4th International Women’s Chess Tournament was held in Bukhara, featuring players from nine countries. The competition was held using the Swiss system across three groups: Masters, Challengers and Futures. This was reported by IIC. The representatives from Turkmenistan achieved excellent results. Myahri Agamyradova from Turkmenabat took first place among girls under 16 in the Challengers group. In the Futures group, Enesh Arazmedova from Ashgabat came fifth. Gulmira Seyilhanova from Turkmenabat took seventh place. The tournament featured female chess players from Austria, Belarus, India, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, Russia, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. The Chess Federation of Turkmenistan congratulated the athletes on their results.
The private sector is showcasing its projects at an exhibition in Ashgabat
18.03.2026On 17 March, an exhibition marking the 18th anniversary of the establishment of the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs of Turkmenistan opened at the building of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. More than 100 companies from various sectors – ranging from the food industry to high technology – are taking part in the exhibition. The event aims to showcase the capabilities of the private sector, develop business contacts and facilitate the exchange of experience. Among the participants is the menswear manufacturer ‘Nurland’. The company was founded in 2016 and previously operated under the name ‘Biçüw’. Its production combines handcrafting with modern technologies, including 3D solutions. The company collaborates with foreign suppliers of fabrics and accessories. The brand has two boutiques in Ashgabat. A branch has also been opened in Dubai. The boutiques use body-scanning systems to select clothing tailored to the customer’s measurements. The exhibition will run until 19 March. As part of the event, the International Forum ‘Investing in the Future of Turkmenistan’ will take place on 18 March.
The National Leader of the Turkmen people has arrived in Beijing
18.03.2026The National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, departed on 17 March for a friendly visit to the People’s Republic of China at the invitation of Xi Jinping, President of the People’s Republic of China. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. Before his departure from Ashgabat International Airport, Hero Arkadag held a meeting with leaders of political parties and public organisations. It was noted that relations between Turkmenistan and China have reached a new level and cover a wide range of areas. During the talks, emphasis was placed on the development of inter-parliamentary and inter-party ties, as well as on the convergence of the parties’ approaches to issues on the international agenda, including initiatives in the fields of security, development and dialogue. The role of cultural and humanitarian cooperation, including in the field of education, was highlighted. It was noted that Turkmen students are studying at Chinese universities, and bilateral contacts in this area continue to expand. Hero Arkdag arrived in Beijing, where an official meeting attended by representatives of both countries took place at Beijing Capital International Airport. It is noted that Turkmenistan and China are actively cooperating in the energy, transport, trade and high-tech sectors. The parties are coordinating their efforts on the international stage, including within the framework of the UN and the ‘Central Asia–China’ format. The friendly visit is continuing.
Turkmenistan and India are strengthening their cooperation in the chemical and industrial sectors
17.03.2026Baymyrat Annamammedov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan, held a meeting with Bandaru Wilsonbabu, the Indian Ambassador to Turkmenistan. This was reported by the online publication ‘Business Turkmenistan’. The parties discussed cooperation in the production of fertilisers. They also explored prospects for partnership in the fields of industry, construction and the chemical sector. Previously, the countries had been considering the possibility of implementing new joint projects that could expand business opportunities for the business communities of both nations.
Turkmenistan and the CICA are stepping up dialogue on regional issues
17.03.2026On 17 March, Ahmet Gurbanov, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, held a meeting with Ambassador Kairat Sarybay, Secretary-General of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia (CICA). This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of Turkmenistan’s cooperation with the CICA. It was noted that the country has held observer status since 2021 and supports the organisation’s objectives of strengthening peace, security and trust in Asia. Issues of regional and inter-regional cooperation, including in Central Asia, were considered separately. Turkmenistan’s initiatives to establish a permanent forum on security, peace and development were discussed. Areas of cooperation in energy, transport and the environment were also touched upon, as well as the development of dialogue between the CICA and the Group of Friends of Neutrality, and the implementation of the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy. The parties noted the need to coordinate efforts to stabilise the situation in Afghanistan and ensure food security. Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their readiness to further develop their partnership within the framework of the CICA.
Ancient Merv: an architectural reflection of Turkmen culture
17.03.2026In the early Middle Ages, the Merv oasis, known as the ‘Mother of Cities,’ became the center of a unique architectural style – fortified manor-palaces. These monuments along the Great Silk Road served not only as residences but also as administrative centers and key hubs of trade between the 5th and 9th centuries, according to the IIC. Particular attention is drawn to the Greater and Lesser Gyzgala – the largest adobe fortresses in the world, distinguished by their semi-circular walls that naturally cooled interior spaces. These two-story structures have preserved their strength for over one and a half millennia due to special additives in the mudbrick. Archaeological findings, including a bronze pendant depicting the goddess Anahita, testify to the high level of culture in the region. The Durnaly fortress performed both defensive and customs functions, while the discovery of massive ceramic vessels confirms the oasis’s status as a major agricultural exporter. Haram-Koshk, an example of private architecture from the 9th century, with its central domed hall, became a foundation for the classical architecture of Central Asia. Remains of glass vessels for incense, intricate ganch (clay gypsum) carvings, and ostraca bearing inscriptions demonstrate a high level of literacy and a developed accounting system of that time. This ancient heritage continues to influence the modern architecture of Turkmenistan. Elements of medieval design are reflected in the white-marble city of Ashgabat and the “smart” city of Arkadag, while the monuments of Mary velayat remain symbols of national memory and a source of inspiration.
Last week, 34 transactions were concluded on the Turkmenistan Stock Exchange
17.03.2026Last week, 34 transactions took place on the State Commodity and Raw Materials Exchange of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. Companies from the UAE, Turkey and Georgia purchased polypropylene and base oil produced by the State Concern ‘Türkmennebit’ in exchange for foreign currency. Foreign buyers also purchased denim products, regenerated fibre, cotton fabric and yarn, karakul wool and wheat flour. Transactions with the UAE, Turkey, Estonia and Kyrgyzstan exceeded US$9 million. On the domestic market, businesses purchased polypropylene and oil from the ‘Türkmennebit’ State Concern, technical sulphur from the ‘Türkmengaz’ State Concern, undistilled fatty acids from cotton soapstock, dyed terry cloth, silk and cotton fabrics, as well as wheat flour. The total amount amounted to over 229.4 million manats.
An exhibition marking the 18th anniversary of the UIET has opened in Ashgabat
17.03.2026An exhibition marking the 18th anniversary of the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs of Turkmenistan (UIET) opened on 17 March in Ashgabat at the building of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan. The event is attended by representatives of ministries, public organisations, the media, foreign companies and diplomatic missions, reports the news website Turkmenportal. The exhibition brings together more than 200 companies from various sectors of the economy, including the domestic private sector, and will run until 19 March, serving as a platform for showcasing business achievements and establishing business contacts. On 18 March, the International Forum ‘Investing in the Future of Turkmenistan’ will commence at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, featuring business meetings, project presentations and discussions on strategies for attracting investment and developing the private sector. The exhibition and forum highlight the contribution of entrepreneurship to the country’s economy and promote the expansion of international cooperation.
Ashgabat discusses strategy to eliminate tuberculosis by 2030
17.03.2026A seminar marking World Tuberculosis Day was held at the UN building in Ashgabat. The event was organised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) country office in Turkmenistan, according to the news website Turkmenportal. Participants discussed the progress made and opportunities to strengthen cooperation to accelerate the elimination of tuberculosis in the country and the region in line with the 2030 targets. The seminar was held in a hybrid format with the participation of WHO experts, national health specialists and international partners. The first session addressed WHO’s strategic priorities in the fight against tuberculosis and other infectious diseases in the European Region and Central Asia, including the implementation of the Action Plan to Combat Tuberculosis for 2023–2030 and the regional initiative ‘Tuberculosis-Free Central Asia’. Turkmenistan’s transition to the National Tuberculosis Control Strategy for 2026–2030 was also discussed. The second session focused on the country’s progress towards achieving regional targets for combating infectious diseases. Participants examined innovative methods for the early detection of tuberculosis, the development of new vaccines, and Turkmenistan’s experience in research into the combined treatment of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis and hepatitis C. The country’s achievements in combating hepatitis B and its contribution to the implementation of global strategies on HIV, viral hepatitis and sexually transmitted infections were highlighted separately. The third session focused on the role of international and non-governmental organisations in implementing the National Tuberculosis Control Programme for 2026–2030. Representatives from the WHO, UNDP, UNFPA and the Turkmenistan National Red Crescent Society presented current initiatives and opportunities for further partnership. In conclusion, participants discussed further steps to strengthen the fight against tuberculosis and other infectious diseases in Turkmenistan and the region. World Tuberculosis Day is observed annually on 24 March to raise awareness of the disease and mobilise efforts to end the epidemic.
Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan discussed a partnership in the field of road construction
17.03.2026The Minister of Road Transport of Turkmenistan, Hangeldi Kerimov, met with the Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Turkmenistan, Ravshanbek Alimov, to discuss issues of bilateral cooperation in the field of road construction. This was reported by the online publication ‘Business Turkmenistan’. The parties also discussed the development of transport and transit corridors between the two countries. Particular attention was paid to the introduction of modern technologies in the road sector, digital management of infrastructure projects, the design of bridges and other transport facilities, as well as the exchange of expertise. It was noted that the launch of the ‘Ashgabat–Turkmenabat’ expressway could contribute to the growth of trade and freight transport, as well as the development of international transit routes. Following the meeting, the parties expressed their readiness to expand practical cooperation, including mutual visits, expert meetings and the implementation of joint projects.
The Iranian Ambassador highlighted Turkmenistan’s role in the delivery of humanitarian aid
17.03.2026A briefing was held in Ashgabat by the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Islamic Republic of Iran, focusing on regional issues and the development of Turkmen-Iranian cooperation. This was reported by IIC. The Diplomat expressed his gratitude to the leadership of Turkmenistan for facilitating the transit of humanitarian aid. He highlighted the country’s role as a key humanitarian hub in the region. Responding to questions from journalists, the Ambassador spoke about the current situation in the region and reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to diplomatic methods for resolving emerging issues. The importance of adhering to the principles of international law was also emphasised. According to the Diplomat, Turkmenistan, pursuing a policy of permanent neutrality, plays a significant role in maintaining peace and security. He noted that cooperation in the transport, logistics and energy sectors contributes to strengthening regional stability. During the meeting, the Ambassador reaffirmed his commitment to the principles of good-neighbourliness and expressed his readiness to further develop cooperation with the media. At the conclusion of the briefing, the role of open dialogue with the press in strengthening mutual understanding between the peoples of the two countries was highlighted.
Turkmen boxers won two bronze medals at the tournament in Bangkok
17.03.2026Turkmen boxers won two bronze medals at the ‘World Boxing Futures Cup 2026’ International Tournament in Bangkok. The competition took place from 8 to 15 March, reports IIC. Ismail Orazmyradov won bronze in the under-75kg weight category, whilst Soyunaly Ovezgeldiyev secured a medal in the under-90kg category. Both athletes demonstrated a high level of preparation and tenacity in their bouts. The performance of the Turkmen boxers reflects the development of the sport in the country and the improvement in the skills of national athletes on the international stage.
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