News
Major projects are planned for Turkmenistan's oil and gas sector this year
10.03.2026The ‘Socio-Economic Development and Investment Programme of Turkmenistan for 2026’ defines priority projects, including in the oil and gas industry. This was reported by the online newspaper ‘Nebit-Gaz’. In particular, attention will be focused on the construction of the ‘Serhetabat-Herat’ pipeline section as part of the ‘Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India’ (TAPI) gas pipeline, the drilling of production wells at the ‘Galkynysh’ field, as well as the exploration and drilling of deep wells to identify new oil and gas reserves. The programme builds on the achievements of previous development plans and the state budget. Stable growth in macroeconomic indicators is expected, including GDP growth of at least 6.3% in 2026. The implementation of the planned projects should contribute to investment activity, the digitalisation of industries, job creation and an improvement in the standard of living of the population.
The journal ‘Diplomacy’ summarises Turkmenistan's foreign policy initiatives
10.03.2026The latest issue of ‘Diplomacy’ journal summarises Turkmenistan's foreign policy over the past year, which was held under the motto ‘International Year of Peace and Trust.’ The publication highlights Ashgabat's systematic steps to strengthen its international authority and develop constructive dialogue, according to IIC. Particular attention is paid to the country's initiatives aimed at promoting mutual respect and implementing global sustainable development programmes. A key event was the International Forum in Ashgabat with the participation of President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov and National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, which confirmed the capital's status as a platform for discussing international security issues. Turkmen initiatives received support at the 80th session of the UN General Assembly, where the country emphasised its commitment to multilateralism and neutrality, proposing solutions to strengthen global security based on law and trust. Foreign policy activity continued with the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries in the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone, which strengthened Turkmenistan's position as a logistics hub and contributed to the development of recommendations for the economic development of such states. The journal also notes the growth of bilateral cooperation with the Republic of Korea in the technological, economic and humanitarian spheres, while the launch of direct flights between the countries expands opportunities for business, cultural and tourist exchanges. Such initiatives confirm the success of Turkmenistan's foreign policy, which is focused on integration into the world community and the creation of conditions for sustainable development.
The Ambassador of Turkmenistan attended the inauguration ceremony of the President of Portugal
10.03.2026The Ambassador of Turkmenistan to France and Portugal, Maksat Charyev, took part in the inauguration ceremony of the new President of the Portuguese Republic, António José Seguro. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The inauguration took place on 9 March at the Assembly of the Republic in Lisbon. António José Seguro became the first representative of the Socialist Party to hold the post of Head of State in the last two decades. In the first round of the presidential election, held on 18 January 2026, Seguro received the most support from voters, with about 31% of the vote. Since none of the candidates received more than 50% of the vote, a second round was scheduled. In the second round, his opponent was the leader of the far-right Chega party, André Ventura. In the second round, held on 8 February, Seguro won a landslide victory, receiving 66.7% of the vote. André Ventura secured the support of 33.3% of voters. With this result, Seguro set a record for the number of votes received by a candidate in a presidential election in the history of Portugal.
Turkmenistan's craftswomen have increased carpet production volumes
10.03.2026Since the beginning of the year, craftswomen at the Gyzylarbat Art Carpet Weaving Enterprise of the ‘Türkmenhaly’ State Association have produced 525 square metres of carpets, exceeding the plan by more than 14% (65 square metres). This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The value of the products manufactured exceeded 989,000 manats. The enterprise continues to restore old carpet designs, develop new patterns and weave large-format products. The craftswomen dedicated their achievements to International Women's Day.
Representatives of Turkmenistan took part in the 14th Tokyo Dialogue
10.03.2026On 5 March, the 14th Tokyo Dialogue was held in Tokyo on the theme of ‘Preservation of Traditional Culture and its Use in Industrial Development and International Activities’. The event was organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan as part of the ‘Central Asia + Japan’ Dialogue, according to the press service of the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Japan. The dialogue was attended by the Head of the ‘Design Plus’ creative association (UNESCO) T. Gurbanova and representatives of the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Japan. The meeting brought together delegations from Central Asian countries, Eri Arfiya, Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, representatives of the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, professors from Japanese universities, experts on the region, and staff from the diplomatic missions of Central Asian countries in Tokyo. The Tokyo Dialogue is held in the format of an open symposium with the participation of experts and specialists. It aims to develop cooperation between Japan and the Central Asian states. Participants discussed issues related to the preservation of traditional culture and its application in industrial development and international activities. It was noted that the event contributes to the expansion of cultural exchanges provided for in the Tokyo Declaration, adopted following the first summit of the ‘Central Asia + Japan’ Dialogue, held in Tokyo last December.
Hero Arkadag noted the contribution of Turkmen women to strengthening the Motherland
10.03.2026The National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov congratulated the women of the country on International Women's Day. This was reported by the state news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. In his address, he noted that in the Era of the Revival of a New Epoch of a Powerful State, the dignity, moral purity and creative talent of Turkmen women are honoured at the state level. Hero Arkadag emphasised the continuity of traditions and the contribution of women to the development of the country. Particular attention is paid to respect for mothers, loyalty to the family hearth and social support for large families, including the improvement of their living conditions. ‘A prosperous life, self-realisation and creative work of women in Turkmenistan are a priority of state policy,’ emphasised the Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty. He assured that all conditions for a comfortable and productive life for women would be created in the country.
Entrepreneurs from seven countries purchased Turkmen products at the exchange
10.03.2026Last week, 24 transactions were registered at the State Commodity and Raw Materials Exchange of Turkmenistan. The total value of contracts concluded by Turkmen entrepreneurs for the domestic market amounted to 253 million 664 thousand 200 manats. This was reported by ‘Business Turkmenistan’. According to the source, local businessmen purchased petroleum products, wheat flour, polypropylene and various types of textile products. At the same time, export transactions were concluded on the exchange. Entrepreneurs from Afghanistan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Uzbekistan, the United Arab Emirates, India, Serbia and Turkey purchased liquefied gas produced by the State Concern ‘Türkmenhimiýa’, petroleum products from the State Concern ‘Türkmennebit’, and polypropylene. In addition, foreign buyers purchased grade B urea produced by ‘Türkmenhimiýa’, Portland cement from the Ministry of Industry and Construction of Turkmenistan, and textile products from Turkmen entrepreneurs. Concentrated liquorice root extract and wheat were also sold for export. The total amount of foreign exchange transactions amounted to 14 million 611 thousand 710 US dollars.
Turkmen delegation visits National Museum of China
10.03.2026A Turkmen delegation visited the National Museum of China as part of events to develop cultural and humanitarian cooperation between Turkmenistan and the People's Republic of China. This was reported by the IIC. The highlight of the visit was a tour of a thematic exhibition featuring rare historical artefacts, from ancient terracotta figurines to painted scrolls. The exhibition was dedicated to the image of the so-called ‘heavenly horses’, which occupy a special place in the cultural traditions of both countries. For the Turkmen people, the Ahal-Teke horse is an important national symbol and an integral part of their historical heritage. In Chinese culture, the image of the legendary horse has long been associated with strength, nobility and prosperity. During the tour of the exhibition, the participants noted the historical connection between the two cultures, which dates back to the times of the Great Silk Road, when the exchange of traditions and ideas contributed to the formation of a common cultural space. It was noted that the exhibition was a sign of respect on the part of China for the national traditions of Turkmenistan and could contribute to the further development of museum cooperation, including the organisation of joint exhibitions and restoration projects.
IIR MFA launches second training course for young diplomats from Central Asia
10.03.2026The opening ceremony of the second regional training course for young diplomats from Central Asian countries was held at the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (IIR MFA) of Turkmenistan in Ashgabat. This was reported by the IIC. The ceremony was attended by representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, diplomats from missions accredited in the country, participants from regional states, teachers and students of the institute. The event is aimed at strengthening cooperation between young specialists from the region's foreign ministries. The training serves as a platform for exchanging experiences and developing joint approaches to current issues in Central Asia. It was noted that such meetings are shaping a new generation of diplomats focused on constructive dialogue.
Ashgabat and Beijing held a meeting of the Turkmen-Chinese working group
10.03.2026A meeting of the Turkmen-Chinese working group on humanitarian cooperation was held in China with the participation of representatives of relevant ministries of both countries. This was reported by IIC Turkmenistan. The Chinese delegation was headed by Gao Zheng, Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism of the People's Republic of China. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of bilateral humanitarian cooperation. Deputy Minister of Culture of Turkmenistan G. Myrataliyev emphasised that cooperation is developing on the basis of a strategic partnership and is based on the historical heritage of the Great Silk Road. The coordination of the initiatives ‘Revival of the Great Silk Road’ and the Chinese ‘Belt and Road Initiative’ was discussed, as well as the significance of the visit of the President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov to Beijing in September 2025. The results of previous cultural projects were noted: the cross-cultural Years of Culture 2023-2024, the installation of a monument to the Chinese poet Du Fu in Ashgabat and the ‘Melodies of the Silk Road — A Joyful Spring Festival’ in February 2026. Educational cooperation was discussed: more than 6,500 Turkmen students are studying in China, and more than 7,000 students in Turkmenistan are studying Chinese. The exchange of experience in social policy and inclusive education, as well as cooperation in the media, sports and tourism, were considered. The Turkmen side invited Chinese partners to participate in international events in Ashgabat in 2026, including the ‘Turkmentravel 2026’ tourism exhibition and the ‘Theatre Art in an Era of Happiness’ theatre festival. Following the meeting, both sides confirmed their readiness to further develop humanitarian cooperation and expand exchanges between relevant institutions.
Turkmenistan and Iraq expand diplomatic and economic ties
10.03.2026On 9 March, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Serdar Muhammetdurdyev met with Jassim Mohammed Al-Attar, Chargé d'Affaires of the Embassy of the Republic of Iraq in Turkmenistan. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. During the meeting, the Turkmen side warmly welcomed Iraq's decision to open an embassy in Ashgabat and confirmed its readiness to provide the necessary support for its full-fledged operation. Both sides noted that the opening of a diplomatic mission would strengthen bilateral relations in the political-diplomatic, trade-economic and cultural-humanitarian spheres. Particular attention was paid to the development of high-level contacts and political consultations between the foreign ministries of the two countries, the latest of which took place in October 2025 in Baghdad. The prospects for expanding trade and economic cooperation and cultural and humanitarian ties, including science, education, sports and tourism, were also discussed. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 2009, contacts between Turkmenistan and Iraq have been actively developing, especially in the international arena.
Women as a Spiritual Force of Society and a Strategic Resource for Development
09.03.2026In the contemporary era, the question of women’s place in society has ceased to be viewed solely as a social issue and has evolved into a significant component of strategic development, public governance, and international cooperation. Within the global political landscape, gender equality is recognized as one of the key prerequisites for economic growth, social stability, and sustainable peace. For this reason, recent years have witnessed a growing number of conferences, forums, and international dialogue platforms across various countries aimed at expanding opportunities for women. The international events held in Turkmenistan in 2025 – particularly the forums organized in Awaza – became a national reflection of this global trend. The issue of women’s rights and opportunities today is largely shaped by economic factors. According to data from the United Nations, increasing women’s economic participation has a direct impact on the growth of gross domestic product. Academic research confirms that in the absence of gender equality, economic potential remains underutilized. The Sustainable Development Goals adopted by the United Nations in 2015 included gender equality as a standalone objective (SDG 5). However, this goal is closely interconnected with other priorities, such as poverty reduction, quality education, healthcare, economic growth, and strong institutions. The achievement of these objectives is impossible without the active participation of women. Observed annually on March 8, International Women’s Day, supported by the United Nations, serves not only as a symbolic celebration but also as a platform for reporting and strategic planning. In addition, the annual sessions of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) held in New York provide states with an opportunity to assess gender policies and adopt new commitments. The work of these international structures demonstrates that the women’s agenda is not an ideological or narrowly social issue, but rather an indicator of a state’s development capacity. In Turkmenistan’s public policy, the role of women is developed in harmony with national values. A distinctive feature of this model is that gender equality is not viewed in opposition to traditions, but rather as a process grounded in them. The International Forum ‘From Commitment to Change: Women Driving the Awaza Programme of Action,’ held in August 2025 in the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone, was not merely an official event but a manifestation of the state’s strategic priorities. The discussions focused extensively on women’s economic opportunities, healthcare development, youth upbringing, and civic engagement. The events held on December 10 in Awaza further confirmed the systemic nature of this agenda. The International Conference titled ‘The Role of Women in Modern Society: Promoting International Cooperation for Sustainable Development,’ concluded with the adoption of a Final Declaration reaffirming commitment to the UN Charter, the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The document particularly emphasized the strategic role of women in social and economic development and in ensuring a sustainable future. Special attention was devoted to expanding women’s participation in public administration and civil society, developing their leadership potential, and strengthening the role of women’s organizations. The Declaration also highlighted women’s economic empowerment, support for entrepreneurship, the reduction of the digital gender gap, and ensuring equal access for girls and women to quality education and healthcare. It underscored women’s contributions to science, culture, ecology, and the fight against climate change, as well as their importance in the development of human capital. The need to expand international cooperation, exchange best practices, and create new dialogue platforms was also emphasized. The regular organization of such forums throughout the year demonstrates that this work is systemic rather than episodic. In 2024–2025, in cooperation with UN country offices, a number of projects were implemented to expand women’s economic opportunities, develop small businesses, and increase the participation of young girls in STEM fields. In this context, the advisory and analytical support provided by UN Women was of particular significance. The growing attention to women’s role at the state level is not accidental but represents a strategic necessity shaped by a complex set of systemic factors. First and foremost, this trend is directly linked to demographic characteristics. Women constitute a significant portion of the young population, and limiting their educational and professional opportunities may lead not only to social inequality but also to the underutilization of human capital. In a context where human capital is recognized as a key driver of modern development, restricting the potential of half the population hampers the full realization of a country’s intellectual, economic, and innovative capacity. Therefore, expanding women’s opportunities is not only a matter of social justice but also a crucial condition for a long-term development strategy. The economic factor is equally important. International studies confirm that increasing women’s participation in managerial and leadership positions positively influences the quality of decision-making. Diversity of professional and social experience contributes to more comprehensive strategic planning, more accurate risk assessment, and the development of effective solutions. In an era marked by economic diversification, technological innovation, and enhanced competitiveness, the inclusion of diverse perspectives becomes an essential condition for sustainable growth. In this regard, expanding women’s economic activity should be viewed as a rational step aimed at increasing overall efficiency. A third factor relates to international image and foreign policy dimensions. The level of gender equality development is included in various international rankings and analytical reports as an important indicator of a country’s progress. This criterion reflects not only the state of domestic social policy but also a country’s commitment to international obligations and modern development standards. Consequently, the gender agenda has become an important element of foreign policy positioning. From the perspective of sociological theory, the role of women in society passes through three stages: traditional, transitional, and transformational. Today, many countries are in the transformational stage, where women are perceived not only as guardians of the family institution but also as full participants in economic and political life. The Turkmen model seeks to harmonize transformational processes with national characteristics. Women retain their status as custodians of family values while simultaneously acting as active agents of social development. Such a dual model contributes to ensuring social stability. Today, the strategic role of women in social development is viewed not merely as an issue of equal opportunity but as a fundamental condition for long-term national development and international authority. The digital economy, ‘green’ growth, and the transformation of the education system all require the participation of highly qualified and active women. Therefore, the systemic measures undertaken in this direction demonstrate the modern and comprehensive nature of Turkmenistan’s development strategy.
Read also
Advertising
Read us in Zen
