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Turkmenistan is promoting initiatives at the UN
11.08.2026Turkmenistan continues to promote initiatives within the United Nations in the fields of peace and security, preventive diplomacy, international law, transport, energy, the environment and sustainable development. The UN General Assembly has already adopted more than 30 resolutions proposed by Turkmenistan, according to the news agency TDH. The promotion of the principles of neutrality remains one of the key priorities of the country’s foreign policy. In September 2025, at the high-level plenary meeting of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov highlighted the importance of neutrality in maintaining international peace, security and sustainable development. On 20 May 2026, the 82nd plenary meeting of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly unanimously adopted the Resolution ‘The role and importance of a policy of neutrality in maintaining and strengthening international peace, security and sustainable development’, initiated by Turkmenistan and co-sponsored by 47 states. The document became the first UN resolution adopted under a separate agenda item of the General Assembly devoted to issues of neutrality. Turkmenistan also advocates strengthening the central role of the UN and the primacy of international law. In this regard, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov proposed declaring 2028 the Year of International Law. On 24 July 2026, the 106th plenary meeting of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly adopted the Resolution ‘Year of International Law, 2028’. It was co-sponsored by 78 states. The document provides for the promotion of international law as the foundation of peace, security and sustainable development. At a meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers on 1 August, comprehensive proposals for implementing this initiative were presented to the President of Turkmenistan. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs proposed drawing up a National Action Plan for 2026–2028 and establishing an Interdepartmental Working Committee comprising representatives from ministries, departments, higher education institutions and research organisations. As part of the Year of International Law, there are plans to hold regional and international forums, educational courses and lectures; to prepare teaching and information materials; to create digital educational resources; and to organise ‘International Law Week’, model UN sessions and youth competitions. It is proposed to establish the Ashgabat International Platform on ‘International Law’ at the Institute of International Relations of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. It is envisaged that this will serve as a platform for academic and diplomatic exchange and for hosting the annual ‘Ashgabat International Legal Dialogue’ and summer schools for young legal scholars. The proposals also provide for the active involvement of the media, the creation of a multilingual internet portal or a dedicated information section on the Year of International Law. Turkmenistan proposes, in collaboration with the UN Secretariat and specialised agencies, to draw up a calendar of international events for 2028. Ashgabat plans to host, under the auspices of the UN, a high-level World Forum on International Law and to consider the possibility of adopting the Ashgabat Declaration. In addition, it is proposed to draw up a National Concept entitled ‘International Law and the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan’ and to circulate it among UN Member States as a United Nations document. It is proposed that the opening of the Year of International Law take place at UN Headquarters in New York, with high-level events also to be held in Geneva, Vienna and other international centres. A separate section is devoted to Turkmenistan’s priorities for the 81st session of the UN General Assembly. The document has been drawn up taking into account the initiatives of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. In the field of peace and security, Turkmenistan intends to propose the holding, under the auspices of the UN, of inter-state consultations on the preparation of a Strategy for Universal Peace. An initiative is also being put forward to declare the years 2027–2037 the United Nations Decade of Dialogue and Preventive Diplomacy and to establish, within the framework of the UN, a Group of Friends of Multilateralism and the Sovereign Equality of States. Following on from President Serdar Berdimuhamedov’s initiative to establish the University of Peace and Neutrality, there are plans to discuss the creation of an Academic Centre for Peace, Neutrality and Preventive Diplomacy within the Department of Peace and Neutrality at the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In the digital sphere, Turkmenistan proposes to develop, under the auspices of the UN, an International Code on the Peaceful Use of Artificial Intelligence in International Relations and Diplomacy. A dialogue among international experts on digital trust and the responsible use of artificial intelligence is also planned to be held in Ashgabat. In the field of transport, Turkmenistan will continue its work on creating a Global Atlas of Sustainable Transport Connectivity within the framework of the resolution on the ‘UN Decade of Sustainable Transport 2026–2035’. The country also intends to participate in the implementation of the Awaza Programme of Action for 2024–2034 and the Awaza Political Declaration. Among the new initiatives are the establishment in Turkmenistan, under the auspices of the UN, of an International Centre for Sustainable Trade Logistics and Customs Cooperation, as well as the creation of a trans-regional transport corridor linking South and Central Asia with Europe via the Caspian Sea. In the environmental sphere, it is proposed to establish the Ashgabat Climate Dialogue as a multilateral platform for climate change and international cooperation. Turkmenistan also intends to advocate for strengthening the climate resilience of regions facing drought and water scarcity. In the energy sector, consultations are planned to prepare for the high-level forum ‘Stable Energy for All’, in accordance with the resolution ‘The pivotal role of reliable and stable energy connectivity in driving sustainable development’. The humanitarian agenda includes the further development of the Central Asian Women’s Dialogue and cooperation with the UN Peacebuilding Commission and UN Women within the framework of the ‘Women, Peace and Security’ agenda. Work will also continue to expand youth participation in international and regional initiatives and to support the Central Asian Youth Dialogue. Turkmenistan will continue its cooperation with the UN in the field of international law and its activities as a member of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) for the period 2026–2028. At the same time, the country is preparing for elections to UN bodies. During the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, it is planned to nominate Turkmenistan for election as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for the period 2031–2032, as well as to other elected UN bodies.
The Bayramali Textile Complex has launched a wool processing workshop
11.08.2026A new workshop for processing camel wool and goat down has been commissioned at the Bayramali Textile Complex. The enterprise is already producing yarn for the domestic and foreign markets, according to the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The raw materials used in production are sourced from state-owned and private livestock farms. The workshop is equipped with high-performance machinery from the People’s Republic of China and the Italian company ‘Cormatex S.r.L.’. Production capacity stands at 130 tonnes of wool yarn per year. Operations are organised into three shifts. The workshop comprises a spinning section, a laboratory and a fibre-dyeing section. Quality is monitored at all stages of production. The yarn is characterised by its thermal insulation properties, lightness and a wide range of colours. It is intended primarily for the manufacture of special-purpose fabrics. It is planned to use recycled wool to produce duvets, pillows, belts and other home textiles. The launch of this new production facility expands the processing of domestic raw materials and creates further opportunities for developing the textile industry’s export potential.
The Turkmenistan Embassy in Kazakhstan held discussions on the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan meeting
11.08.2026A meeting was held at the Embassy of Turkmenistan in the Republic of Kazakhstan with Omurzak Ozganbayev, a member of the Council of Senators and an honourable elder (aksakal). The parties exchanged views on the forthcoming session of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, to be held on 23 September 2026 in Ashgabat, according to the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. Omurzak Ozganbayev recalled his visit to Ashgabat to take part in the 15th session of the Council of Elders of the Organisation of Turkic States (OTS), held from 11 to 13 March 2024 under Turkmenistan’s chairmanship. He noted the high standard of organisation of the event and the Turkmen hospitality. The meeting also discussed the elections to the Kurultay in the Republic of Kazakhstan, which are due to take place on 23 August 2026. The participants highlighted the historical and cultural common ground between the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan and the new state body, the Halyk Kengesi (People’s Council of Kazakhstan), based on the traditions of the Turkic peoples. According to Omurzak Ozganbayev, the forthcoming session of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan will mark an important stage in the implementation of strategic objectives, the strengthening of national unity and the further development of the country.
Turkmenistan and Afghanistan are strengthening their energy cooperation
11.08.2026On 10 August, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, undertook a working visit to the Mary velayat and visited Afghanistan. This was reported by the news agency TDH. From Ashgabat International Airport, Hero Arkadag travelled to Mary International Airport. The National Leader of the Turkmen people then arrived at the Islam-Cheshme border zone in the town of Serhetabat, Tagtabazar etrap, and travelled to Afghanistan. During the visit, negotiations were held with Abdul Ghani Baradar, Deputy Chairman of the Afghan Cabinet of Ministers for Economic Affairs. The parties discussed the development of bilateral cooperation in the fuel and energy, transport and logistics, electricity, education and other sectors. Particular attention was paid to the ‘Turkmenistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan–India’ (TAPI) gas pipeline project and its ‘Serhetabat–Herat’ section, known as ‘Arkadagyň ak ýoly’. The project’s role in developing energy cooperation and expanding economic ties between the countries was highlighted. The parties also considered issues relating to the implementation of the ‘Turkmenistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan’ power transmission line and the fibre-optic communication line. Discussions centred on the development of the ‘Lapis Lazuli’ transport corridor, the creation of logistics infrastructure and the simplification of freight transport procedures. In the field of education, attention was drawn to the possibility of increasing the number of Afghan students at higher education institutions in Turkmenistan and training specialists for the gas sector, including for the TAPI project. The National Leader of the Turkmen people proposed establishing a Turkmen-Afghan commission on economic cooperation to further promote joint projects and strengthen the legal framework for cooperation. During the visit, a signing ceremony was held for a Memorandum of Understanding between the State Concern ‘Türkmengaz’ and the State Corporation ‘Afghan Gas’ of Afghanistan. The document provides for joint work on the creation of specialised infrastructure in Herat Province, as well as the supply of Turkmen gas to industrial enterprises, power stations and the general public. As part of the trip, video footage was presented showing the progress of construction on the ‘Serhetabat–Herat’ gas pipeline. Around 300 units of modern specialised machinery are being used to carry out the work. At the end of the visit, Hero Arkadag returned to Mary International Airport, from where he flew to Ashgabat.
FFT specialists took part in the AFC conference
11.08.2026A conference organised by the Asian Football Confederation for elite female referees and assistant referees was held in Malaysia. Kristina Bersenyova, an international referee from Turkmenistan, took part in the event, according to IIC Turkmenistan. The participants underwent testing on the laws of the game and physical fitness. The Turkmen referee successfully met all the standards. Following the conference, Kristina Bersenyova received an invitation to officiate matches in the AFC Women’s Champions League.
A representative of the FFT took part in the CAFA seminar in Dushanbe
11.08.2026Azat Annaorazov, a representative of the Turkmenistan Football Federation, took part in a two-day training seminar organised by the Central Asian Football Association (CAFA) for match commissioners for the 2026 tournament, which took place in Dushanbe. This was reported by IIC of Turkmenistan. The event was attended by specialists from all CAFA member countries. The sessions were led by Kemal Tokabayev, an official FIFA and AFC match commissioner, and international CAFA experts. The programme included theoretical sessions and practical training on the organisation of football matches. The seminar was aimed at enhancing the skills of specialists and facilitating the exchange of experience. The event also contributed to the implementation of FIFA and AFC standards in regional competitions.
Turkmen weightlifters won two medals in Tashkent
11.08.2026The Asian Weightlifting Championships for youth and juniors in the under-17 and youth age groups are currently taking place in Tashkent. Turkmenistan is represented at the continental championships by athletes from the national team, according to IIC Turkmenistan. In the over-60-kilogramme weight category, Atabek Azamatov won the silver medal in the boys’ and girls’ events. His total lift was 245 kilogrammes. Shabnam Kerimbayeva, competing in the under-53-kilogramme weight category, secured another medal for the national team. Her total was 186 kilogrammes.
The Turkmenistan Youth Symphony Orchestra performed in Berlin
11.08.2026On 9 August, the Turkmenistan Youth Symphony Orchestra performed at the 27th Young Euro Classic International Festival of Youth Symphony Orchestras in Berlin. The concert took place at the Konzerthaus Berlin, according to the IIC of Turkmenistan. The orchestra performed under the baton of conductor Rasul Klychev. The concert’s soloist was pianist Shaislam Komiljanov. The programme included works by Turkmen composers and international symphonic classics. The musicians performed the Piano Concerto (1975) by Chary Nurymov and the symphonic poem ‘My Motherland’ by Veli Mukhatov, as well as selected works from the classical repertoire. The Young Euro Classic Festival is taking place in Berlin from 31 July to 16 August. This year, 14 youth orchestras from more than 20 countries around the world are taking part.
Turkmen delegates have been invited to a medical forum in India
11.08.2026The Indian Embassy in Turkmenistan has announced the start of registration for international delegates to the SANJEEVANI 2026 international forum. The event will take place in New Delhi on 7–9 September, according to the IIC of Turkmenistan. The forum will bring together representatives from healthcare institutions, the medical tourism sector, insurance companies, the wellness sector and the media. The programme will include a specialised exhibition, themed conferences, B2B meetings and familiarisation visits to leading clinics in India. More than 350 foreign delegates are expected to attend. Participants selected under the ‘Hosted Buyer’ programme will be offered partial or full reimbursement of their airfare and accommodation costs. Applications are accepted via the forum’s official online platform and undergo preliminary selection based on professional criteria.
59 trades were concluded on the Turkmenistan Stock Exchange over the course of the week
11.08.2026A total of 59 transactions were concluded over the course of the week at the State Commodity and Raw Materials Exchange of Turkmenistan. This was reported by IIC of Turkmenistan. Foreign buyers from Turkey and Serbia purchased cotton yarn and liquorice root extract using foreign currency. The value of the export contracts exceeded 224,000 US dollars. On the domestic market, Turkmen businesses purchased petroleum road bitumen, polypropylene and petroleum coke produced by the State Concern ‘Türkmennebit’, as well as cotton fabric and raw silk. The total value of the transactions in manats amounted to over 428 million 978 thousand.
National costumes preserve the traditions of the Turkmen people
10.08.2026The national costumes of the Turkmen people remain an important part of their cultural and historical heritage and of modern everyday life. They retain their traditional cut, colour schemes and cultural significance. This was reported by the press office of the Ministry of Culture of Turkmenistan. Turkmenistan is known for its well-developed textile industry. Local weaving traditions were shaped by the characteristics of a nomadic and semi-nomadic way of life. Wool, cotton and keten silk were traditionally used to produce fabrics. In clothing culture, great importance was attached to age and family status. Everyday attire was characterised by practicality, whilst festive attire featured rich decorative embellishments. The women’s national costume consisted primarily of long, straight-cut dresses. A woman’s age, marital status and affiliation with a particular region or tribe could be determined by the colour of the fabric, the design of the collar and the type of headdress. Embroidery held a special place. The art of embroidery, included in UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, became one of the main decorative elements of national dress. The intricate patterns on the collars not only added decorative flair to the outfits but also reflected the distinctive features of individual regions. Women’s costumes were complemented by silver jewellery set with carnelian. A distinct type of women’s clothing is the ‘Ýanly köýnek’ – a dress characterised by its distinctive cut and comfort. This tradition continues to this day. Experts gathered information on its manufacture during expeditions across the country’s regions. When sewing the dress, the front and back shoulder sections are first joined, then the collar is shaped. Its shape depends on the woman’s age and preferences and may be decorated with various patterns. The inner part of the back is traditionally reinforced with cotton fabric. Once the dress is complete, a tie is attached to the collar. Its ends may be decorated with multicoloured threads and tassels. The new dress is accompanied by good wishes for family well-being and the opportunity to wear it on festive occasions.
Halk Maslahaty is carrying on the traditions of national unity
10.08.2026This year, under the motto ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’, the country continues to pursue its socio-economic development objectives. This is reported by the online news site AsmanNews. The unity of the people remains one of the key principles of Turkmen society. The traditions of harmony, peace and mutual understanding are regarded as an important part of the national heritage. The Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan plays a special role in this process. At a meeting of its Presidium, the main focus was on preparations for the national forum, which is to take place on 23 September at the ‘Maslahat Köşgi’ Palace in Ashgabat. Participants will review the country’s socio-economic development and set out objectives for the future. The activities of the Halk Maslahaty are aimed at strengthening the unity, cohesion and well-being of the people, as well as the country’s further development. The tradition of collegial discussion of issues of importance to the family, society and the state has its roots in the history of the Turkmen people. Today, this tradition is being further developed through the work of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan as a modern platform for strengthening national unity. Peacefulness, good neighbourliness and open dialogue remain key pillars of Turkmenistan’s domestic and foreign policy. At the same time, the preservation of national values and social harmony is regarded as the foundation for the country’s further development.
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